Minor in Russian Studies

Minor in Russian Studies

The minor program in Russian Studies offers students the opportunity to undertake 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” or “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 completion of the introductory through intermediate language program (0100-0400) or literacy courses for Russian speakers (RUSS 0201, RUSS 0401), 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 schedule an appointment with the Undergraduate Chair, Prof. D. Brian Kim, at this link. Prof. Kim can be reached at dbkim at sas.upenn.edu.

Please see this page for information on declaring a major, minor, or certificate program in the College of Arts and Sciences. REES requires a consultation with the Undergraduate Chair prior to approval of such a declaration.

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.) toward the minor may be additional courses from the REES department proper or courses bearing REES attributes. With the approval of the Undergraduate Chair, electives may also include courses of other departments which are not cross-listed, yet which concern Russia or the former Soviet Union in significant portion of their content.

Language Prerequisite

RUSS 0100–0400 or literacy courses for Russian speakers (RUSS 0201, RUSS 0401).

Advanced Language (2 c.u.)

At least two courses (2 c.u.) of advanced language courses and seminars taught in Russian (RUSS 1100, RUSS 1200, or any content course taught in Russian).

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 REES, 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.) toward the minor may be additional courses from the REES department proper or courses bearing REES attributes. With the approval of the Undergraduate Chair, electives may also include courses of other departments 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 0001-0004) or the demonstration of equivalent proficiency.

History/Culture (2 c.u.)

Choose from the introductory history and culture surveys:

REES 0010 East and Central Europe

REES 0100 Portraits of Old Rus: Myth, Icon, Chronicle

REES 0105 Portraits of Tsarist Russia: Intrigue, Innovation, Institution

REES 0110 Portraits of Russian Society: Art, Fiction, Drama

REES 0130 Portraits of Soviet Society: Literature, Film, Drama

REES 0310 The Rise and Fall of the Russian Empire

REES 0311 The Soviet Century: 1917-1991

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 or with REES attributes, or chosen in consultation with the Undergraduate Chair.