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University of Massachusetts Amherst Bachelor of Arts in Russian, Eurasian, and Polish Studies
University of Massachusetts Amherst

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Bachelor of Arts in Russian, Eurasian, and Polish Studies

BA

English

On-Campus

Key Summary

    About : The Bachelor of Arts in Russian, Eurasian, and Polish Studies program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the cultures, histories, and politics of these regions. It combines coursework in language, literature, and area studies to foster critical thinking and analytical skills. Students can expect to develop proficiency in the Russian language while exploring various aspects of Eurasian and Polish societies.
    Career Outcomes : Graduates can pursue careers in international relations, diplomacy, education, and translation services. Other potential paths include working in non-profit organizations, government roles, and cultural institutions that require expertise in East European affairs.

Russian, Eurasian, and Polish studies majors develop thorough knowledge of the region' culture and history, which lends itself to careers in diplomacy, government service, international development, business, policy research, or translation.

The major consists of 14 courses taken at UMass and through the Five Colleges. If you plan to study Russian, you can start at any stage, whether you’re a beginner, have some skills, or grew up speaking it. You may also substitute equivalent work in another Slavic, East European or Central Asian language. Beyond language study, you’ll take six courses in at least three disciplines chosen from anthropology, comparative literature, economics, English, history, Judaic studies, political science, sociology, or Russian.

Studying Russian language, history, and culture at UMass, you’ll learn to comprehend contemporary Russian—written and spoken—to a degree permitting the understanding of texts and ideas relevant to disciplines beyond language study; engage in research in the field using primary and secondary sources; and generate original ideas and insights using your knowledge of language and your critical skills.