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The Russian studies program cultivates students' ability to appreciate cultural complexities, including their own. Through an intensive curriculum centered on Russia and Slavic cultures, students develop the capacity for cross-cultural perspective-taking. The Slavic Languages Department outlines four interconnected academic concentrations with specific objectives: linguistic proficiency, cultural literacy, scholarly/practical applications, and intercultural understanding. Graduates of the Russian program will achieve the following competencies:
Communication Comprehend sophisticated spoken discourse and intricate arguments. Interpret specialized, academic, and literary texts while discerning authorial perspectives, stylistic elements, and genre characteristics. Engage in spontaneous conversations with native speakers across diverse topics while articulating personal opinions. Produce well-structured written compositions that present information and defend positions. Navigate and utilize Russian digital media platforms.
Culture Situate Russian within the global linguistic landscape. Recognize principal religious, artistic, and social influences shaping Russian history and modernity. Identify key epochs and movements in Russian cultural and literary evolution. Exhibit knowledge of contemporary Russian societal norms (including family dynamics, popular culture, and digital media).
Academic and Professional Applications Employ Russian language skills for disciplinary research (literature, history, political science, theology, etc.). Utilize Russian in professional contexts (government service, NGO work, international business requiring Russian proficiency, etc.).