Russian Studies

Language of instruction: Dutch


The fall of communism resulted in a much-needed reform of the economy, political system, law and government, education and health care of the former Soviet Union. Some Western experts participated in the process by making their expertise available. Leiden lawyers, for instance, have contributed to the realization of a new book on civil law. A stable and flourishing Russia is important to the world's welfare, and the only way to create contacts with Russia is through knowledge of the language, and understanding of the culture. The programme in Russian Studies produces graduates who perfectly match this profile, making them excellent intermediaries between Russia and the world at large.

The Bachelor’s Programme


The first-year curriculum is the same as the Bachelor's programme in Slavic Languages and Cultures and the programme in Russian Studies. Two-thirds of the time are spent learning Russian (both the grammar and the script are difficult to master), enabling students to read Russian fairly easily by the end of the first year. In addition, students follow introductory courses in linguistics, literature and the history and sociology of Russia. After the first year, alongside language proficiency courses, students also follow courses on politics, law, economy and the history of Russia. One of these fields is subsequently chosen as the student's specialisation, resulting in a Bachelor's thesis. Many students choose to include a study period or internship in Russia in the programme.

See for more information the department website (in Dutch) or the timetables (partly in English)

Practical Studies

Following the basic programme, the Russian Studies programme can be combined with one of the 'practical studies' or PraktijkStudies (International Management & Culture, European Union Studies, Journalism and the New Media, Book and Publishing or the Educational minor) or with other options and, possibly, an internship.