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Language and Culture in Russia

Program Information | Costs | Orientation | Contact

Apply now!

Know the following program information, which you will provide on the online application: 

Early application is strongly encouraged, as space is limited and the program will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Complete applications include an essay and unofficial transcript. A non-refundable application fee of $50 will be billed to your student account upon submission of an online application.

Program Information

• Study Russian language each morning and then practice your skills while exploring St. Petersburg each afternoon.
• Enjoy the midnight sun of summertime in St. Petersburg, one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world.
  
• Experience the world’s largest country along with its dynamic culture, fascinating history and contemporary society.
  
• Explore the Gulf of Finland, while cooking shasklyki on the beach.
  
• Attend a variety of cultural events, including local contemporary Russian music and art venues, the opera and ballet performances.

Become immersed in Russia’s language and culture, the two main components of this program. Language courses are taught by natives of St. Petersburg at the Liden and Denz Language School, located in the heart of the city. These courses serve as the foundation for experiencing Russian culture outside of the classroom.

Excursions take place on alternating days for beginning and intermediate level students. Intermediate level excursions are conducted in Russian. For beginning level students, some excursions are conducted in English, while others are conducted in Russian but translated into English by the intermediate level students on the program.  With a wide array of excursions, seize the opportunity to study the richness of Russian history, visit multiple world heritage sites, take in the beautiful natural environment and attend a variety of cultural events.

Choose between two courses depending on your knowledge of the Russian language.

Beginners will earn credits in FORS 1110, RUSS 1110: Russian Language and Culture Abroad I. The course fulfills the Liberal Education Oral and Language Communication and Global Perspective categories. No previous language study is required for beginner classes.

Intermediate level students will earn credits in FORS 1210, RUSS 1210: Russian Language and Culture Abroad II. The course fulfills the Liberal Education Global Perspectives category. Prerequisites for this course are RUSS 1101 and RUSS 1102, or equivalent.

Course components include:

• Morning language courses at the beginning level and intermediate level depending on proficiency
• Excursions throughout St. Petersburg, both in English and in Russian
• Collaboration with local university students on the rise of digital culture in contemporary Russian society

Participants MUST have a passport, valid for at least six months after their return to the United States.

Costs
Estimated program costs can be found here.

A non-refundable application fee of $50 will be billed to your student account upon submission of an online application. A deposit of $400 will be billed to your student account upon your confirmation of participation. The remainder of the program fee will be billed through Student Accounts Receivable.

Financial aid may be applied toward the cost of the program if you are enrolled as a full-time student. There are also study abroad scholarships for University of Minnesota students.

Orientation
At least two pre-departure orientations will be held. Pre-departure orientations will include information about financial aid, classwork and travel tips. A general study abroad handbook will be emailed prior to departure.

Familiarize yourself on financing, health and safety and policies to consider when studying abroad.

Contact
Contact the program leader, Dan Nolan for program or itinerary questions. For application or registration questions, contact Arianna Austin in the International Education Office.