Russian Undergraduate Study
Russian degrees at the University of Exeter are taught in the Department of Languages, Cultures, and Visual Studies, a sector-leading department built around a vibrant and diverse learning community. Studying Russian allows you to learn about a centuries-old culture, poised between Eastern and Western traditions.
Our educators are internationally recognised for their research, and experts in supporting and guiding students through the challenges presented by the language, culture, and history of Russia.
Russian currently ranks fifth in the number of speakers worldwide and is one of the six official languages of the UN, making it a highly-valued language, especially in fields such as politics and international relations, journalism, and science.
Top 10 for Russian in the UK
7th in the Complete University Guide 2026 and 8th in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026
Top 150 worldwide for Modern Languages
QS World University Subject Rankings 2025
Spend a year abroad on an International Placement
1st in the UK for research impact
Joint 1st for world-leading or internationally excellent research, REF 2021
Discover Russian at the University of Exeter
Our highly flexible courses allow you to structure your course around your interests, or follow a specific career-orientated pathway.
You will be able to explore the cultural, intellectual and historical evolution of Russian cultural life, experiencing some of the great works of literature and art along the way. At the heart of our Department is our pioneering Language Centre, staffed by experienced professionals including Russian-speaking educators.
Students have the option of spending their third year in a Russian-speaking country. You can choose from a range of locations outside Russia including Estonia, Latvia, Kazakhstan, or Georgia. You will be able to develop your language skills, and discover the culture of your host country.
Customise your Russian degree
You can study Russian through three pathways:
Study or work abroad
The International Placement can be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable aspects of a Modern Languages degree. It is also one of the major factors that makes languages graduates attractive to employers.
By immersing yourself in the culture you study, you will not only enhance your language skills, but cultivate:
- strong intercultural understanding
- improved communication skills
- the ability to think and study in different ways
- resilience and confidence
- analytical skills
- adaptability, independence and valuable life experience
Meet our academics
Professor Katharine Hodgson
Professor in Russian
My research is on the study of literature written in Russian, with a focus on twentieth-century poetry. I offer undergraduate modules in Russian studies: from literary topics such as the representation of animals in Russian writing, to the history of Russia's development as an empire.
Dr Emily Lygo
Senior Lecturer
I am a Senior Lecturer in Russian and teach modules on Russian history, literature and culture. My research currently focuses on how people in Britain understood the USSR during the Cold War, looking at translation, cultural exchange, media, and societies of enthusiasts.
Professor Muireann Maguire
Professor in Russian and Comparative Literature
I am co-Director of the Exeter Centre for Eastern European and Eurasian Studies. My research interests include the dynamics of Russian-English literary translation, and gender studies - specifically the depiction of pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding in Russian and Western literature.
Yuliya Kostyuk
Lecturer
I have been passionate about teaching for many years and teach writing, oral, translation and comprehension seminars in Russian modules at all levels.
I am dedicated to creating effective digital learning resources that enhance education alongside traditional teaching methods, supporting students' success.
