Academic Advising
in the College of Arts & Science
What Can I Do With a Major in Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies?
This interdisciplinary major allows students to study the history of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Eurasia, broadly defined as the territory of the former Soviet republics, from medieval times to today. Drawing from a range of disciplines and approaches, students have the opportunity to explore issues of political, social, and regional identity and cultural diversity, as well as official and popular culture. Students select one of two tracks: the Language, Literature, and Culture track OR the History and Politics track. Proficiency at the level of Russian 202 or above is required.
Students often combine a major in Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies with another major, such as history, political science, geography, anthropology, or a foreign language. Majors in Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies are expected to study abroad.
Interests
An interest in understanding the history, politics, literatures, and cultures of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Eurasia. A desire to: become fluent in another language, increase competency in using the English language, and develop an understanding of and appreciation for cultural differences. An interest in reading, analyzing, and responding to literary and cultural works
Competencies
- Reading
- Reading/understanding ideas
Reading for and in context - Research
- Attention to detail
Comparing ideas
Analyzing data
Gathering information
Summarizing
Evaluating
Synthesizing
Examining all pertinent evidence
Project development and follow through - Communication
- Explaining other cultures
Writing clearly
Composing and expressing thoughts
Describing and evaluating issues/problems/events - Human Relations
- Understanding and interpreting other cultures
Sensitivity to cultural perceptions/viewpoints
Flexibility/adaptability
Opportunities - Careers
- Human Services
- Peace Corps/Vista volunteer
Red Cross
Special concerns advocate
Humanities and arts council representative
Social welfare worker
Philanthropic foundation administrator - Communications
- Foreign correspondent
Publisher/Editor-International books, papers, magazines
Translator
Interpreter
Museum/tour guide - Non-Profit
- Program coordinator
Researcher
Public relations liaison
Fund raiser - Government
- Embassy personnel
Foreign service representative
U.S. information agency program specialist
Intelligence officer - Education
- Language teacher/elementary and secondary level
College/university teaching/research
College/university administration - Industry
- Administrative assistant
Creative director/assistant manager
International banker
Foreign credit manager
Travel agent/four guide
Export/import sales manager
Staff development representative/international assignments
International money transfer specialist
Foundation representative
Note: Some of the listed career options may require additional education and/or training beyond the bachelor's degree.
Opportunities - Graduate/Professional School
Majors in Russian, East European, and Eurasian studies may continue work in this area in graduate school or go to professional schools of law, journalism, or business.
Opportunities - Experiential
In addition to course work, study abroad programs offer opportunities for students to expand language proficiency and explore another culture.The international education programs organized by Miami University focused on Russia, Eastern Europe, and Eurasia include a four-week intensive Russian language study program at Novgorod University near St. Petersburg sponsored by the Department of German, Russian, and East Asian Languages. The Havighurst Center for Russian and Post-Soviet Studies sponsors an English-language summer study program that involves visits to cultural and historical sites, and meetings with local political, literary, and business elites.
Sources of Additional Information
- German, Russian, and East Asian Languages with Arabic and Hebrew
(172 Irvin Hall, 529-2526) - * Curriculum Requirements
* Career Opportunities - Career Exploration and Testing Center (196 Health Services Center, 529-4645)
- * Career Counseling
* Career Assistance Center
* Computerized Career Development Program
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook - Arts and Science Academic Advising (146 Upham Hall, 529-3031)
- * Miami Plan & College of Arts and Science Requirements
- * Course Selection
* Career Decision Making - Office of Career Services (241 Hoyt Hall, 529-3831)
- * Career Resource Center
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook - Office of International Education (216 MacMillan Hall, 529-5628)
- * Study and Work Abroad Advising
* Resource Library
Developed by the College of Arts and Science Advising Office and the academic departmental offices with adaptations from Liberal Arts and Sciences - Skills - Career Opportunities, Career Planning and Placement Office, University of Michigan.