History and Russian
The Bachelor of Arts in History and Russian is a four-year full-time program that combines the study of history with advanced Russian language skills. This program allows students to explore the history of Russia and the wider Slavic world, while also gaining proficiency in the Russian language. Students will study key historical periods, such as Imperial Russia, the Soviet era, and post-Soviet transitions, alongside learning the language, culture, and literature of Russian-speaking regions.
Throughout the program, students will enhance their language skills in Russian while also developing critical thinking and research abilities in historical analysis. The course includes opportunities for studying abroad in Russian-speaking countries, providing students with immersive language experiences. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in international relations, diplomacy, journalism, or education, with expertise in both history and Russian language and culture.
Key information
Key Facts
Program Title: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History and Russian
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
Duration: 4 Years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Application Deadline: 30th June 2026
Location: University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Field of Study: History
Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Introduction to History and Russian Language
- Introduction to History: Key Themes, Methods, and Approaches
- Russian Language and Culture: Fundamentals of Russian Grammar and Vocabulary
- Early Modern History: The Rise of European Empires and Global Expansion
- Russian History: From the Tsars to the Soviet Union
- Research Skills for Historians: Primary Sources, Analysis, and Writing
- Russian Society and Politics: Understanding the Cultural and Political Landscape
- Introduction to Russian Literature: Classical and Modern Works
Year 2 – In-Depth Historical Analysis and Russian Studies
- Modern European History: Revolutions, Wars, and the Shaping of Modern Nations
- Russian Literature: The Golden Age and Soviet Literature
- History of the Russian Empire: Political, Social, and Cultural Developments
- Advanced Russian Language: Oral and Written Proficiency
- Russian Political Thought: Key Figures and Movements in Russian Intellectual History
- Elective Modules in European History, Russian Art and Film, or Comparative History
- Historical Methods and Debates: Approaches to Analyzing Primary Sources
Year 3 – Specialization in History and Russian
- Russian History in the 20th Century: The Revolution, Stalinism, and Post-Soviet Russia
- Contemporary Russian Politics: From the Soviet Union to Modern-Day Russia
- Advanced Historical Research: Writing a Dissertation on a History Topic of Choice
- Russian Language for Advanced Learners: Focusing on Conversation, Translation, and Literature
- Special Topics in Russian Studies: Politics, Society, and Identity in Post-Soviet Russia
- Elective Modules in European History, Eastern European Politics, or Post-Soviet Relations
- History Research Project: Independent Study on a Historical Topic
Year 4 – Final Year and Independent Research
- Dissertation in History: Independent Research Project on a Historical Subject
- Capstone Project: Exploring Themes in Russian History and Culture
- Russian Film and Media: The Representation of Russian Identity in Modern Culture
- Global Histories: Connecting Russian History to Global Contexts
- Professional Development: Workshops on Career Skills, Networking, and Job Applications
- Seminar Series: Engaging with Experts in History and Russian Studies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the History and Russian program at the University of Manchester are equipped for a wide variety of careers that require both historical knowledge and linguistic skills. These include roles in education, international diplomacy, media, public relations, and the cultural sector. With expertise in both Russian history and the Russian language, graduates can work in governmental agencies, foreign services, international organizations, or NGOs. Additionally, roles in translation, interpretation, journalism, and research are common career paths. The program's interdisciplinary approach and focus on critical thinking, research, and language proficiency provide students with the tools to succeed in various fields that require strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.
Why Choose This Program
The History and Russian program at the University of Manchester offers an exciting opportunity to study two dynamic and interconnected fields. Students will gain a deep understanding of Russian history, culture, and language, alongside comprehensive training in historical methods and analysis. The program’s combination of Russian language proficiency with specialized historical knowledge prepares students to engage critically with Russian and European history in a global context. With opportunities for independent research, an in-depth dissertation project, and access to expert faculty, this program provides a rich academic experience. Additionally, the University of Manchester’s global connections and professional development opportunities ensure that students are well-equipped for a range of career options in both the UK and internationally.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)161 275 5252
Email: admissions@manchester.ac.uk
Address: University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
