What is Russian and Slavonic studies?
Russia is a key player in global politics and economics, a fast-developing 21st century society with a rich cultural heritage. The Russian language is spoken not only in Russian but also in the newer nations that were once part of the Soviet Union. It is a vital language in today's world. The countries of South-East Europe belong to an area which is exceptionally diverse in terms of its peoples, cultures and religions. These countries are important economic and political partners for the UK and the European Union; they have made major contributions to European culture and are central to any understanding of the modern world. Studying Russia or South-East Europe languages and cultures today means interacting with fascinating, dynamic societies and experiencing history in the making.
Nottingham offers an exceptionally broad programme of study across three main language areas, with modules ranging from the medieval period to the 21st century. Russian and Serbian/Croatian can be studied as single honours subjects or in combination with other modern foreign languages, history, English or international media and communications studies. In addition to Russian and Serbian/Croatian, we offer Slovene as a full degree subject within Modern Languages Studies, Modern European Studies and Modern Languages with Business, or as a second language alongside Russian or Serbian/Croatian. Polish is also available as an optional subject. Russian and East European Civilisations is a three-year course with no compulsory language study, focusing on the histories, literatures and cultures of the region.
How will I study?
We offer a wide range of modules in cultural studies, film, history, literature, language and visual art. Most modules are taught in a combination of lectures and small seminar groups. Language is taught mostly by native speakers and oral language groups are kept very small to give every student the opportunity to practise their language skills.
Assessment is through coursework and exams. The first year is a qualifying year; only the grades from your second and final years count towards your degree.
Studying abroad
All students taking language courses spend their third year studying abroad. The department has excellent links with Russia, Serbia and Slovenia. Students studying Russian and East European Civilisations are not required to spend time abroad, but all students are eligible to apply for departmental bursaries for time spent in Slavonic-speaking countries. There is also the opportunity to spend an extra semester abroad through the Universitas 21 scheme.
A unique feature of the Nottingham programme is a two-week intensive language course in Russia and Serbia in the first summer vacation, for all students studying Russian or Serbian/Croatian.
Further information can be found on our study abroad web pages.
Career prospects
More than 90 per cent of our students graduate with upper-second or first-class degrees. Recent graduates' first jobs have included positions in publishing, translating/interpreting, law, financial services, cultural management, the Russo-British Chamber of Commerce, television, journalism, the Civil Service, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and teaching in the UK and abroad. Our students are also well placed to undertake postgraduate study.
The average starting salary for 2009/10 full-time graduates of the Department of Russian and Slavonic Studies was £17,666.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studies full-time, 2009/10.
Application and interview
Offers are usually made without interview. Students with non-standard entry requirements, including mature students, may be invited to an interview.
Open days
UCAS visit days for students offered a place are normally held from late January to March. You are welcome to visit at other times – please contact us or for dates of our open days visit
www.nottingham.ac.uk/opendays