Russian is a major global language with 250 to 258 million total speakers worldwide. It ranks as the eighth most-spoken language globally and the most spoken native language in Europe, utilizing the Cyrillic script and serving as one of the United Nations official languages.
Russian and Eurasian studies in the U.S. focus today on language proficiency, history, politics, and cultures across Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Programs emphasize national security, diplomacy, and regional expertise, with study abroad shifting toward safe, Russian-speaking hubs in countries like Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Georgia.
One-fourth of the scientific literature published worldwide is published in Russian. Russian plays a critical role in STEM fields. With its significance in space exploration, engineering, and scientific research, the language is a key asset for students pursuing careers in physics, medicine, and technology. By learning Russian, you gain access to influential scientific texts and discoveries that continue to shape innovation worldwide.
Why Iowa?
Studying Russian at the University of Iowa offers specialized courses, cultural immersion tables, and interdisciplinary pathways that prepare students for careers in government, international business, and translation.
The Department of Languages, Linguistics, Literatures and Cultures offers a Russian Studies minor with comprehensive coursework in Russian literature, cinema, and linguistics. Students will take courses from experienced teachers, native speakers of Russian.
All language instruction is offered in the cultural context, introducing students to Russia's long and eventful history and culture, and exposing them to the masterpieces of Russian music, literature, visual arts, and cinema.
Admission Requirements
Students interested in this major must meet the requirements for admission to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
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Careers and Outcomes
Within six months of graduating, 96 percent of Iowa graduates are employed, continuing education, or not seeking work. Our Pomerantz Career Center offers multiple resources to help students find internships and jobs.
Studying Russian opens doors to careers in diplomacy, international business, government intelligence, cybersecurity/OSINT analysis, and translation, giving you a competitive edge in today’s global landscape. It also plays a pivotal role in understanding global politics and security. Common post-graduate study options include International Relations, Law, or Slavic Area Studies.
Government agencies often seek candidates with advanced Russian training and prefer applicants who pair language proficiency with a strong background in area studies. Outstanding students may also pursue careers in interpreting or literary and technical translation.
Student Opportunities
In addition to more than 600 student organizations, Iowa students choose from more than 100 study abroad programs and multiple undergraduate research opportunities.
The University of Iowa provides language, cultural and research opportunities for students to learn Russian during summer intensive courses in Armenia at Ijevan University.
Russian minors stage Russian plays, hold festivals, traditional dinners, open houses, and present Russian "Kapustnik," a talent show held each semester. There is a Russian Circle student group as well as a Russian conversation hour.
The Russian Program at Iowa provides free tutoring and participation in the Russian Club.
Scholarships
The University of Iowa provides a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students through the Iowa Scholarship Portal. Scholarships are available to first-year, transfer, and currently enrolled students. For additional details on scholarships for your program of study, check directly with the department or college.
The Office of Admissions and the Office of Student Financial Aid are great resources for students seeking scholarships.
Coursework
The undergraduate minor in Russian Studies requires coursework in the Russian language, conversation and composition, as well as culture and literature.
Students can use the Russian minor to complement any major in fields such as international studies, translation, history, communication, journalism, political science, global health, and STEM majors.
Russian offers direct access to a rich cultural tradition. Immerse yourself in the works of literary giants like Tolstoy and Dostoevsky, explore the music of Tchaikovsky, and experience the world of Russian cinema. Learning Russian allows you to deepen your understanding of history while providing fresh perspectives on global culture.
Review the Russian Studies minor requirements in the General Catalog.