Russian Studies

Take your first step towards being able to communicate with millions of people who speak Russian throughout Europe and Asia by taking Russian at Iowa State. Students who minor in Russian Studies become proficient in one of the world’s most widely spoken languages; gain a profound understanding of Russian culture; and explore history and politics of one of the world’s major nations.

The Russian Studies program offers language courses that range from elementary to advanced, as well as coursework (in English and in Russian) on Russian cinema, literature, culture, and society. For those of you interested in the social sciences, the history and political science departments also offer a wide array of courses that satisfy requirements for the Russian Studies minor and provide additional pathways into discovering this fascinating region of the world. For an extra professional edge, explore the ISU-sponsored study-abroad and internship packages, that range from one week to one year and take you from the bustling streets of Moscow to the wilderness of Lake Baikal.

Classic and LCP track minors

The Russian Studies program offers both minors in our “classic” and “LCP” tracks. Our classic track spends more time on literature and media. Our Languages and Cultures for Professions (LCP) track highlights culture, civilization, and business applications.

Study abroad

Studying Abroad greatly enhances a student’s undergraduate experience. There are many study abroad options for students of Russian at Iowa State.

The WLC recommended provider is SRAS: the most popular destination among students is St. Petersburg. Students can select from several SRAS locations (St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Irkutsk, Moscow) that are offered during the summer, Semester or Academic Year. SRAS offers intensive Russian language programs (RSL – Russian as a Second Language) at all locations, from beginning to advanced levels. In addition, students can take content courses in English on a range of topics: art history, cross–cultural communication, economy, foreign policy, history, finance and marketing, geopolitics, literature, mass media. There are internship options at all locations.

• Russian only (beginners to advanced are welcome)
• Russian language + internship
• Russian language + content course in English

There are 3 summer sessions available at all SRAS locations: for 6, 8 and 10 weeks. Students bring back roughly 1 credit per week for RSL programs. See this and other programs with Russian as the language of instruction below.

Student clubs and organizations

Students at Iowa State University can tailor their experience to make sure they gain valuable skills for the future.

WLC students can engage with other language and cultural studies students when they join one of our department-specific student clubs: Spanish Club, German Club, Anthropology Club, Classical Studies Club, and others.

A wide variety of campus-wide student organizations and clubs are available for students to join—including academic, honor societies, political and activism, and intramural sports. Gain leadership and service experience through the Student Activities Center, go to one of the many fun campus events like the Cyclone Carnival, or learn more about clubs and activities at the annual ClubFest to see the many ways you can get involved during your time at Iowa State.

Have an idea for the next big thing? The Start Something LAS Academy, part of the ISU Start Something network, provides hands-on learning experiences for students interested in innovation and entrepreneurship. Build community with other innovators as you explore innovation and entrepreneurship.