Studying History and the Humanities in Russia and the CIS

The humanities directions on offer

Universities in Russia and the CIS offer history and the humanities as a family of related directions, usually within a faculty of history or of humanities. History is the core direction, often with profiles such as world history, regional history, or art history, and it sits alongside neighbouring fields.

Closely related directions include archaeology (often a profile within history rather than a separate degree), cultural studies, art history, and museum-and-heritage studies. The exact directions and profiles available differ by university, so check the official programme list to see what each institution actually offers.

How the study path is structured

Humanities directions typically follow the two-cycle model: a bachelor's degree giving broad foundations, then an optional master's for a chosen specialisation such as a period, region or sub-field. Research-minded students may continue to postgraduate study afterwards.

These fields are reading- and writing-intensive, with seminars, source analysis and, for archaeology, field practice at some universities. Because the academic culture and the way profiles are named vary, read the curriculum on the official site rather than assuming a programme matches its title.

• History: world, regional, or art-history profiles
• Archaeology: often a profile within history, with field practice
• Cultural studies and art history: culture, heritage, the arts
• Museum and heritage studies at some universities

Language of study and the foundation year

History and the humanities are language-heavy, so the medium of instruction is a key factor. Most programmes are taught in Russian or the national CIS language because so much coursework involves reading and writing in that language; English-taught humanities options are less common but do exist at some universities.

International students planning to study in the local language usually complete a preparatory faculty (foundation year) first to build the language and academic skills needed for source-based work. Confirm the medium and any foundation-year requirement on the official university page.

Applying as an international student

Apply directly to the university, or for Russia use the official Russian state portal for the selection of foreign citizens. You select your history or humanities direction, submit your academic documents, and meet the language and entry requirements set by the institution.

Entrance assessments, deadlines and required documents differ by university and country, so rely on the official university and admission websites for accurate, current details. No guide or agent can promise a place or fast-track admission — be cautious of anyone who claims to.