Russian Studies Dalhousie University

Overview

Be part of the oldest Russian Studies programme in Canada. 

Dalhousie University 's Bachelor of Arts in Russian Studies programme combines the latest in technology and research with a traditionally intensive, comprehensive, and personalized approach to learning the Russian language. Small class sizes create the congenial atmosphere of a close-knit community.

Programme options

Courses in the Russian Studies Department are open to students either:

• as electives in any degree programme

• as constituents of a major or honours degree in Russian; or 

• with courses in another discipline forming part of a combined honours degree or double major; or as a minor

Major or honours students may, with the approval of the Russian Studies Department, take up to one semester (15 credit hours) of work at a university in Russia and receive credit at Dalhousie. Qualified students are urged to participate in the Intensive Russian Programme, founded by Dalhousie, which enables Canadian students to study for a semester at St. Petersburg State University.

The following Russian Studies programme options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:  

• Bachelor of Arts, Honours/Combined Honours in Russian Studies

• Bachelor of Arts, Major/Double Major in Russian Studies

• Minor in Russian Studies

What you will learn

When you take Russian Studies at Dalhousie, you'll get a thorough grasp of Russian grammar and a practical competence in speaking, reading, and writing. Courses in culture and civilization introduce you to the art, architecture, music, and religious faiths of the Russian people. You'll also take literature courses, which are offered in both English and Russian.

The Russian Studies programme is a tight knit, supportive community of faculty and students. We get together regularly throughout the school year, with a wide range of events and opportunities to speak, watch, listen, and interact with Russian language and culture.

Careers

For those interested in international business, knowledge of the Russian language is an enormous asset. Russia is an important and fast-growing trade partner with Canada. This partnership involves national and multinational oil, gas, mining, and financial services companies, as well as governmental agencies and media organizations need Canadians with Russian language skills.

Possible careers include:

• translator

• interpreter

• diplomat

Graduate studies programmes require fluency in Russian.