Location:

Moscow, Russia

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Academic Year, Fall Semester, Spring Semester

Program Overview

Program Description:

Designed for students at an either an intermediate or advanced level of Russian, the Middlebury C.V. Starr School in Russia offers students a broad range of academic and cultural immersion. Through a flexible and demanding academic program, and with a variety of local contacts outside of the university, we strive to allow students maximum independence in their academic and social lives. In addition to improved Russian language ability, this level of independence allows students to develop practical survival skills for later work or study in the country.

Students primarily take their courses at the Middlebury center in Russian language, literature, and culture, with content seminars, "spetskursy", focusing on economics, politics, history, and regional studies. Middlebury's host institution, the Russian State University for the Humanities (RGGU), offers a full range of courses in the humanities and social sciences. Advanced students may also choose to take one of their university courses at the Shukin Theater Institute or the Higher School of Economics.

Participants in the C.V. Starr-Middlebury Schools Abroad don’t just study a language—they live it. Many of our students major in disciplines other than foreign languages, yet all bring a level of proficiency that supports their commitment to language and cultural immersion. They sign and honor the Middlebury Language Pledge because they want the greatest possible challenge in a study abroad program and an authentic experience in every respect; academic, social, and even professional. Participants take courses in most subjects with host country students, intern or engage in volunteer work, and live with a host family. Indeed, at every juncture of their time abroad, students have the chance to "live the language" and immerse themselves in the host culture.

Setting Description:

Moscow is the center of Russian cultural and political life. Whether spotting Lenin’s ghost in Red Square, exploring neighborhood boutiques, or sampling authentic Georgian cuisine, Moscow offers all the excitement of a cosmopolitan city. Students should know, however, that studying in Moscow, with its eleven million residents, imper­sonal attitude, and huge crowds in the metro, is not the typical “Russian” experience they might be expecting. As the ease of transitioning into such a large city cannot be overestimated, Moscow is best suited for students with strong language skills and prior experience in Russia.

Cost:

Semester Tuition (includes health insurance): $13,650. Year Tuition (includes health insurance): $27,300