Spoken in Russia and throughout the former Soviet Union, Russian ranks fourth among the world’s most widely used languages, after Chinese, English and Spanish. The achievements of Russian writers and artists in ballet, cinema, theatre and painting are internationally recognized.

Why Choose this program

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Enhanced Russian Skills: Develop strong communication abilities in one of the world’s most widely spoken languages. Explore Russian literature, cinema, theatre, and the arts, from Tolstoy and Dostoevsky to world‑renowned ballet and film.

Interactive Learning Environment: Experience Russian culture through engaging activities and a mandatory immersion stay in a Russian‑speaking university. A mobility scholarship helps support your travel and living costs.

Learning Support & Opportunities: Benefit from dynamic learning tools and conversation workshops. Knowledge of Russian is a valuable asset in fields like Arctic studies, space exploration, diplomacy, and international business, especially given Canada–Russia collaborations.

Browse program options

Opportunity to acquire a solid foundation while following a Specialization or a Major in another discipline.

Must be taken in addition to a main program.

Program structure

Course sequence

Admission requirements and deadlines for Russian Language and Culture

After your studies

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After completing your undergraduate studies in your specialization or major (for example, a major in World Languages and Cultures) with a minor in Russian Language and Culture, you have two main paths to consider: continuing your studies or entering the workforce.

You may choose to pursue graduate studies in your main program, such as a Master’s degree (MA), to deepen your knowledge and develop advanced research, analytical, and critical‑thinking skills. 

You may also decide to enter the job market directly. Your degree can lead to a variety of careers in fields such as Interpreter, Translator, Language school manager, Ambassador, Diplomat, Intergovernmental affairs officer, Immigration policy analyst, Communications specialist. These opportunities allow you to apply your skills in writing, speaking and Interpersonal communication in real-world settings. 

Whether you choose to continue your studies or transition into the workforce, your degree provides a strong foundation for building a career.

Career development and experiential learning

Explore the world while studying full time at one of our partner institutions — for one or two terms — without paying international tuition fees. It’s a unique chance to broaden your horizons and enrich your university experience.

Student experience

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Student Association of the Faculty of Arts (SAFA)

SAFA represents the interests of undergraduate students of the Faculty of Arts within the UOSU, the Faculty, the University, the community, and the provincial and federal governments. The students’ association also works to foster a sense of community through social, academic, and cultural events, while at the same time offering a variety of services to its members.
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Graduate Students' Association (GSAMLL)

The GSAMLL is a member of the larger Graduate Students Association of University of Ottawa. Our mandate is to enhance environment in which our members pursue their collective academic interests.
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Russian Club

The Russophile Circle organizes a variety of activities for those interested in the Russian language and culture. There are Russian films every second week, and a Russky chay (Russian tea) every other Wednesday where you can meet fellow russophiles and chat in a relaxed atmosphere. Dobro pozhalovat'!

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