Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies

Strengthen Your Global Edge with the REES Minor

Studying Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies (REES) at Miami University is more than learning a language—it’s access to one of the world’s most widely spoken languages, used by more than 250 million people across two continents. Through the REES Minor, students benefit from scholarships, guest lectures, specialized coursework, and study abroad opportunities supported by the Havighurst Center for Russian and Post-Soviet Studies—the only U.S. center dedicated to undergraduate education in this field. Students explore Russia’s rich cultural legacy in literature, music, ballet, and art while examining its historical and contemporary global influence.

With more than a quarter of the world’s scientific literature published in Russian and growing demand in international business, diplomacy, cybersecurity, intelligence, and nonprofit sectors, Russian fluency offers a strong competitive advantage. Career pathways include roles in federal agencies such as State, Commerce, and Justice, as well as positions with global corporations and NGOs.

Eligibility

A minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA is required for courses taken at Miami. Courses must be taken for a grade (not credit/no-credit). Students planning to take this minor should consult with the lead departmental adviser.

Curriculum and Courses

The interdisciplinary, intercultural minor will emphasize literary, cultural, political, anthropological, and historical contexts; it provides flexibility and a range of courses. Several of the courses in the minor’s curriculum are listed below.

• RUS 101 Beginner’s Course
• RUS 137 Magic and Power in Russian Folklore
• RUS 201 Intermediate Russian
• HST 324 Eurasian Nomads and History
• POL 331 Communism and Soviet Politics, 1917-1991
• REL 373 Religion after Communism

The minor requires 15-17 hours.