Russian Studies and English Literature

Russian studies and English literature is a combination that develops two distinct but related forms of close engagement with language and culture. English literature builds the skills to read, analyse and write about texts across a wide range of historical periods and traditions, examining how form, language and context shape meaning. Russian studies offers access to one of the great literary traditions of the world, from Pushkin and Tolstoy to Chekhov and Bulgakov, alongside a geopolitically significant language and the cultural, historical and contemporary context in which it is embedded.

Together, the two disciplines develop critical, analytical, linguistic and creative skills through sustained engagement with texts in both languages.

At the University of Edinburgh, this four-year full-time programme offers a joint honours degree that aims to develop your abilities across both fields through a broad range of texts and a variety of approaches to reading. You will develop your Russian language skills from your current level towards advanced proficiency, engaging with Russian literature in the original alongside translation, and studying the cultural and historical contexts that shaped Russian writing. English literature modules take you through British, American and world literatures, developing close reading, critical theory and essay writing skills.

Edinburgh's dual strength in both linguistics and literary study, and its research reputation across both fields, gives you an excellent environment for this demanding combination.

Graduates of Russian Studies and English Literature programmes go on to careers in translation and interpreting, journalism, broadcasting, publishing, international business, diplomacy, cultural organisations, education, research and the civil service. The combination of rare linguistic competence and strong critical and writing skills is valued in any role that requires engagement with Russian-speaking contexts, as well as in broader careers where analytical and communication skills are at a premium. Further study in Russian, comparative literature, translation, linguistics or area studies is a natural progression.