Russian and Eurasian Studies

The Master's programme in Russian and Eurasian Studies at Leiden University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complex political, cultural, historical, and social dynamics of Russia and the Eurasian region. This programme is designed for students who wish to gain in-depth knowledge and critical skills to analyze current developments and historical contexts of this diverse and strategically important part of the world. Throughout the programme, students will explore topics such as Russian politics, foreign policy, society, literature, history, and economic developments, enabling them to develop a nuanced understanding of regional issues and their global implications. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with empirical research methods, fostering analytical skills and academic excellence. Students have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as security studies, regional integration, or political economy, tailoring their studies to their career interests. The programme also emphasizes language proficiency, encouraging students to improve their Russian language skills for more effective research and communication. Leiden University's vibrant academic environment, with renowned faculty and extensive research resources, provides an ideal setting for rigorous scholarly work and critical reflection. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, diplomacy, international organizations, think tanks, journalism, or private sector roles that require expertise in Russian and Eurasian affairs. With its interdisciplinary approach, international outlook, and focus on current issues, the Master's in Russian and Eurasian Studies prepares students to become informed analysts and effective communicators in a globalized world.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 3981 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13175 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

Programme internationalization:

• Studying abroad is optional.
• The percentage of foreign students: 0%
• The percentage of foreign teachers: 0%
• The percentage of students abroad: 0%
• The percentage of teachers abroad: 0%

This programme has a workload of 180 ECTS.

Specialities:

Governance, Economics and Development:

Students will learn to utilize rigorous scientific approaches and methods to understand and design solutions for major challenges of governance and development.

International Justice:

The International Justice major at LUC, The Hague is built around three key themes of international law and dispute settlement, regional integration, and international security.

Global Public Health:

The goal of this major is to foster both an applied and critical theoretical understanding of the risk factors and potential interventions associated with public health challenges.

Human Diversity:

The Human Diversity major gives students the knowledge and skills necessary to address the challenge of living together in socially diverse communities.

Earth, Energy and Sustainability:

What is sustainability? How do we achieve a sustainable society? These are big questions and complex topics to cover. This major at LUC is focused on Ecosystem, Earth systems and Resource Management.

World Politics:

World Politics is organised around the global challenge of peace, locating issues of security and peace within the broader context of international relations and transnational politics.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 7 TOEFL paper-based test score : 600 TOEFL iBT® test : 100

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

For this programme a numerus fixus of 200 applies.

Language test

Written request

Assessment interview

Math test

Additional language requirements:

• IELTS overall band: 7
• IELTS listening: 7
• IELTS reading: 7
• IELTS writing: 7
• IELTS speaking: 7
• TOEFL paper based: 600
• TOEFL computer based: 237
• TOEFL internet based: 100

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Leiden University.

Funding

Scholarships / Grants:

Leiden University:
For additional information: Website

The Master’s in Russian and Eurasian Studies at Leiden University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of the history, politics, societies, and cultures of Russia and the broader Eurasian region. This program aims to equip students with the analytical skills necessary to interpret complex issues facing these regions today. The curriculum combines various fields such as political science, history, culture, and language studies to provide a holistic perspective on Eurasian affairs. Students have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge through coursework that covers contemporary political developments, historical contexts, and cultural dynamics. The program often features engaging seminars, research projects, and potentially internships, allowing students to gain practical experience and professional skills relevant to careers in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, or journalism. Leiden University’s reputation as a leading institution in the humanities and social sciences makes it an ideal environment for studying Russian and Eurasian affairs. The university’s extensive library resources, dedicated faculty with expertise in Eurasian studies, and connections to relevant research networks enhance the educational experience. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, research competencies, and language skills, including Russian language proficiency, essential for conducting in-depth regional analysis. The program typically expects applicants to have a background or strong interest in Eurasian issues and often requires proficiency in English. Graduates of this Master’s program are well-prepared to pursue careers in diplomatic service, international NGOs, think tanks, journalism, or continue their academic research through PhD studies. Overall, Leiden University’s Russian and Eurasian Studies program provides a rigorous academic environment for understanding the complexities of the Eurasian region and preparing students for impactful professional engagement across multiple sectors.