Minor in Russian Studies

Minor in Russian Studies

The Minor program in Russian Studies offers students the opportunity for the interdisciplinary study of the language, history, politics, literature, and culture of Russia. Students can pursue their specific disciplinary interests through two tracks: “Russian Language, Literature, and Culture” and “Russian Culture and History.” Both minor tracks require a total of six courses (6 c.u.) beyond the Penn language requirement, which students can satisfy by completing of the introductory through intermediate language program (001-004) or literacy courses for Russian speakers (360-361), by completing language coursework through a study abroad program, or by demonstrating equivalent proficiency. Only two courses from study abroad can be counted towards this minor. To discuss major and minor options and plans, please contact the Undergraduate Chair, Prof. Kevin M. F. Platt, to schedule a Zoom meeting or a telephone call. Prof. Platt can be reached at kmfplatt@sas.upenn.edu 

Application for the Russian Minor

Concentration in Russian Language, Literature, and Culture

The six courses (6 c.u.) must include four courses taught in the department, of which two courses (2 c.u.) must be taught in Russian. The remaining two courses (2 c.u.) towards the minor may be additional courses from the REES department proper or courses cross-listed with RUSS. With the approval of the undergraduate chair, electives may also include courses of other departments which are not cross-listed with RUSS, yet which concern Russia or the former Soviet Union in significant portion of their content.

Language prerequisite

RUSS001--004 or literacy courses for Russian speakers (RUSS360--361)

Advanced Language (2 c.u.)

At least two courses (2 c.u.) of advanced language courses and seminars taught in Russian (RUSS311, RUSS312, or any course at the 400 level)

Core (2 c.u.)

Any two courses on the topic of Russian language, literature, and culture offered by the REES department.

Electives (2 c.u.)

Any two courses on the topic of Russian language, literature, and culture offered by the REES department, cross-listed with RUSS, or chosen in consultation with the Undergraduate Chair.

Concentration in Russian Culture and History

The six courses (6 c.u.) must include four courses taught in the department, of which two courses (2 c.u.) must be introductory history and culture surveys. The remaining two courses (2 c.u.) towards the minor may be additional courses from the REES department proper or courses cross-listed with RUSS. With the approval of the undergraduate chair, electives may also include courses of other departments which are not cross-listed with RUSS, yet which concern Russia or the former Soviet Union in significant portion of their content.

Language prerequisite

Completion of the introductory through intermediate language program (RUSS 001-004) or the demonstration of equivalent proficiency. 

History/Culture (2 c.u.)

Choose from the introductory history and culture surveys:

RUSS010 Russia and Eurasia

EEUR010 East and Central Europe

HIST045 Portraits of Old Russia

HIST048 The Rise and Fall of the Russian Empire

HIST049 The Soviet Century: 1917-1991

RUSS136 Portraits of Russian Society: Art, Fiction, Drama

RUSS187 Portraits of Soviet Society: Literature, Film, Drama

Core Courses (2 c.u.)

Any two courses on the topic of Russian history, culture, and society offered by the REES department.

Electives (2 c.u.)

Any two courses on the topic of Russian history, culture, and society offered by the REES department, cross-listed with RUSS, or chosen in consultation with the Undergraduate Chair.