Russian

Discover the fascinating world of culture, history, and opportunity through the Russian language. Spoken by over 280 million people globally, Russian is not just a major world language—it's a gateway to understanding one of the most dynamic regions in international affairs. Since the end of the Cold War, Russia and its neighboring countries have become significant players in global business, economics, politics, and the arts, making Russian an invaluable skill for anyone seeking to engage with the world on a deeper level.

Russian is the official language of Russia and also serves as one of the official languages of Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Beyond these countries, Russian is widely spoken across former Soviet states such as Azerbaijan, Estonia, Georgia, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, making it an essential language for global communication in diverse regions.

By pursuing a minor in Russian, you will not only gain proficiency in a language that opens doors to new opportunities but also dive deep into the rich literary and cultural traditions of the Russian-speaking world. Imagine reading the masterpieces of literary giants like Pushkin, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, and Chekhov in their original language, immersing yourself in their words and ideas as they were meant to be experienced.

Mason’s minor in Russian isn’t just about language—it’s about connecting you with experienced faculty who will guide you through the cultural, historical, and social forces that have shaped contemporary Russia. Whether you’re studying history, government, international politics, geography, theater, communications, or economics, this minor will provide you with the cultural literacy and language skills needed to excel in any of these fields.

Expand your academic horizons and gain a competitive edge in today’s globalized world. With Russian, you’ll not only enhance your major but also open up a world of new opportunities in business, diplomacy, literature, and beyond. Step into a world of knowledge, experience, and opportunity—start your journey with a minor in Russian today!

Resources for Modern and Classical Languages Students