Slavic and Eurasian Studies
The Slavic and Eurasian Studies program at the University of Duke offers an immersive and interdisciplinary journey into the cultural, historical, political, and linguistic landscapes of Eastern Europe, Russia, Central Asia, and the Caucasus. Students explore how empires, revolutions, ideologies, and religious traditions have shaped the region's transformation over centuries. The curriculum integrates the study of language, identity, and geopolitical change, encouraging a nuanced understanding of a part of the world that remains highly influential in global affairs. Through courses that bridge literature, history, anthropology, and political science, students develop the tools to critically analyze how ideas and institutions have circulated across and beyond Eurasia.
Over four years, learners advance their knowledge through both foundational and specialized coursework, gaining proficiency in a Slavic or Eurasian language and conducting research on regional topics. The program emphasizes close reading, comparative analysis, and original inquiry, offering a range of electives that allow students to tailor their academic path. Whether examining the legacy of the Soviet Union, analyzing contemporary post-socialist transitions, or engaging with literature and film, students are guided by experienced faculty and supported by research resources that enrich their learning experience. Study abroad options and senior projects further deepen cultural and academic engagement.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Slavic and Eurasian Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Area & Cultural Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Language and Cultural Literacy
• Elementary Russian or another Eurasian Language I & II
• Introduction to Slavic and Eurasian Civilizations
• Writing and Research in Area Studies
• World History: Eurasian Perspectives
Year 2 – Regional Histories and Sociopolitical Themes
• Intermediate Russian or Chosen Language I & II
• History of the Russian Empire and the USSR
• Religion and Nationalism in Eurasia
• Political Structures of Post-Soviet States
Year 3 – Literature, Identity, and Interdisciplinary Topics
• 20th-Century Russian and East European Literature
• Ethnicity and Borders in the Caucasus
• Media, Culture, and Society in Central Asia
• Elective in Linguistics, Film, or Anthropology
Year 4 – Specialization and Capstone Work
• Advanced Language Seminar
• Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
• Seminar in Global Comparative Studies
• Gender and Modernity in Slavic Societies
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Slavic and Eurasian Studies program are well-prepared for a wide variety of careers that demand global awareness, cultural literacy, and analytical precision. Many go on to work in government and foreign service, especially in areas related to Eastern European and Central Asian policy. Others build careers in international development, non-governmental organizations, journalism, and cross-cultural communication, where their understanding of language and sociopolitical nuance is highly valued. Some alumni pursue roles in translation and interpretation, academic research, or museum and archival work, applying their language proficiency and historical knowledge in professional contexts. The program also serves as a strong foundation for graduate study in disciplines such as international relations, political science, history, or regional studies, enabling students to specialize further or enter professions such as law, education, or diplomacy. With their interdisciplinary background and regional expertise, graduates contribute meaningfully to both local and global conversations on culture, identity, and power.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing this program means engaging deeply with a region that has been central to global history and continues to shape international affairs. The curriculum offers a rare blend of language training, cultural interpretation, and historical inquiry, enabling students to understand complex political and social developments through a well-rounded academic lens. Faculty bring diverse scholarly backgrounds and provide mentorship that supports both academic growth and career exploration. Opportunities for original research, participation in conferences, and study abroad experiences in countries like Russia, Georgia, or Poland enrich learning beyond the classroom. Students graduate with not only critical thinking and language skills, but also a nuanced perspective on the interconnections between culture, ideology, and identity. This program is ideal for those seeking to navigate an increasingly multipolar world with intellectual rigor and regional fluency.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
