History and Russian

Key Facts

Program Title: Bachelor of Arts in History and Russian
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Field of Study: History
Duration: 4 Years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Start Date: 14 January 2026
Location: University of Bristol, United Kingdom
Language of Instruction: English and Russian

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations of History and Russian Studies

• Introduction to Historical Methodology
• World History from Ancient to Early Modern Times
• Introduction to Russian Language and Culture
• Russian Literature from the 18th Century to the 20th Century
• Russian History: From the Tsars to the Revolution
• Language Skills Development in Russian (Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing)
• Introduction to Russian Cinema and Media

Year 2 – Intermediate History and Russian Studies

• Modern European History: The 19th and 20th Centuries
• Russian Literature and Philosophy: 20th Century to Present
• The History of the Soviet Union and its Legacy
• Russian Language: Advanced Grammar and Composition
• Russian Politics and Society
• The Cold War and the Global Order
• Historical Theory and Practice
• Translation Skills: Russian-English and English-Russian

Year 3 – Study Abroad or Placement

• Study Abroad in Russia or another Russian-speaking country
• Immersive Language Learning in Russian
• Advanced Study of Russian History and Culture
• Exposure to Russian Political and Economic Systems
• Literature and Cultural Criticism in Russian Contexts
• Independent Research Project in Russian History or Literature
• Elective Modules in Russian History, Politics, or Literature

Year 4 – Advanced History and Russian Studies & Final Project

• Russian Revolution and the Soviet Experience
• Post-Soviet Russia: Politics, Culture, and Society
• Historical Approaches to Russian and Eastern European History
• Russian Theatre and Cultural Movements
• Final Year Dissertation in History or Russian Studies
• Professional Development and Career Planning
• Independent Research in Russian History, Politics, or Culture
• Elective Modules in European or Global History

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the BA in History and Russian from the University of Bristol will be well-prepared for careers in international relations, education, journalism, translation, policy analysis, and cultural exchange programs. Possible career roles include History Teacher, Russian Language Teacher, Translator/Interpreter, Foreign Service Officer, Journalist, Cultural Attaché, or Political Analyst. The program’s combination of linguistic proficiency and historical expertise in both Russian and broader historical contexts equips graduates for roles in international organizations, government agencies, media outlets, and NGOs focused on Russia or Eastern Europe.

Why Choose This Program

The BA in History and Russian at the University of Bristol offers a unique interdisciplinary approach, combining historical study with in-depth language acquisition and cultural understanding of Russia. Students not only gain advanced proficiency in the Russian language, but they also develop a deep understanding of Russia’s history, politics, and literary traditions. The study abroad year in a Russian-speaking country provides immersive learning opportunities, enhancing both language skills and cultural awareness. Bristol’s renowned History department and emphasis on interdisciplinary learning ensure that students are well-prepared to engage with global issues related to Russian history, politics, and culture, making them highly sought after by employers in both academic and professional fields.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)117 928 9000
Email: admissions@bristol.ac.uk
Address: University of Bristol, Senate House, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TH, United Kingdom