Russian Language and Culture

RUSSIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE

(Barnard equivalents: Russian Language and Literature, Russian Regional Studies*)

This major is intended for students who aim to attain maximal proficiency in the Russian language. Intensive language training is complemented by an array of elective courses in Russian culture that allow students to achieve critical understanding of contemporary Russian society and of Russian-speaking communities around the world. If your main interest is learning to speak Russian as well as you can -- including by learning about the cultural contexts that have shaped the Russian language -- this is the major for you.

Since this major emphasizes language acquisition, it is not appropriate for native Russian speakers.

*Barnard students please note: Although Barnard and Columbia Slavic majors share classes, professors, and many of the same requirements, they are subject to different requirements for the B.A. degree. Barnard students should consult the major and minor requirements listed on the website of the Barnard Slavic Department.
 

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

The program consists of 15 courses, 8 of which meet language requirements. Of the remaining 7 courses, 2 are introductory surveys, and the other 5 are electives, chosen in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies. The course requirements are distributed as follows:

Course List

  • Eight semesters of coursework in Russian language (from First- through Fourth-year Russian) or the equivalent

·     Two survey courses, one of which two of which must be in Russian literature (RUSS UN3220 and RUSS UN3221)

  • RUSS UN3220   Literature and Empire (19th-century literature)     
  • RUSS UN3221   Literature and Revolution (20th-century literature)
  • RUSS UN3223   Magical Mystery Tour: The Legacy of Old Rus'   
  • SLCL UN3001   Slavic Cultures      
  • RUSS GU4006   Russian Religious Thought, Praxis, and Literature     
  • CLSL GU4011   Experimental Cultures 
  • CLRS GU4022   Russia and Asia: Orientalism, Eurasianism, Internationalism     
  • CLSL GU4075   Soviet and Post-Soviet, Colonial Post-Colonial Film
  • RUSS GU4107   Russian Literature and Culture in the New Millenium
  • HSSL GU4280   Religion in Russia: Culture, History and Institution.

Contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies for a list of currently offered survey courses.

  • Five additional courses in Russian culture, history, literature, art, film, music, or in linguistics. At least one of the selected courses should be taught in Russian.

NOTES:

·       To complement these courses, students are urged to spend a semester, year, or summer, studying abroad. The Russian Language Coordinator is available to help you choose a suitable program.