In the Russian Studies major, students will gain proficiency in the Russian language and a strong understanding of the culture, history and society of Russia. Courses within Russian Studies include language, culture and cinema. Students in their final year undertake a research project written in either English or Russian. Russian is one of the official languages of the United Nations. If students want to use this major professionally, they should consider combining it with art, politics, international relations, law, economics or finance. The Russian economy has rapidly opened up to foreign markets, and employers prize graduates with Russian language skills.