Graduate Programs
The faculty and the curriculum of the graduate program in Slavic Languages and Literatures offer both breadth and depth. The aim of graduate training in the Department is to provide students with knowledge, understanding and critical analytical and methodological skills pertinent to the cultures of Russia and Eastern Europe. Programs are designed to prepare students for teaching and research, public service, and other careers in fields such as business and journalism. Graduates of the doctoral program are currently on the faculties of such institutions as the University of Arizona, Yale, Bucknell, Bates College and the University of Kentucky.
Curriculum
The graduate program offers a wide range of courses on Slavic languages, literatures and cultures. Particular strengths of the Department are nineteenth- and twentieth-century Russian literature, Polish language and literature, linguistics and Slavic culture. Some courses cover relatively broad topics, major periods and movements; others are specialized courses on themes, authors or genres. Most graduate classes are small seminars with a discussion format, offering opportunity for close interaction with faculty members.
Language
Language learning is central to the mission of the graduate program. Students are expected to bring strong language skills to study at the graduate level. One goal of the graduate program is building fluency to the native or near-native level. We encourage and support study abroad to enhance language learning.
Teaching
Most students in the graduate program have the opportunity to teach during their graduate study, learning pedagogical skills both through coursework and through teaching apprenticeship. Graduate students typically teach Russian language and lead discussion sections for courses on literature and culture. The Teaching Resource Center at UVa offers workshops and individualized training for graduate student teachers.
Research
Students in the graduate program learn to pursue independent research projects through courses and in writing theses and dissertations. The faculty of the Slavic Department works closely with individual graduate students on developing research skills, writing, presenting papers, and publishing. We particularly encourage applications from students whose interests coincide with the research areas of the faculty.
Community
Students in the graduate program benefit from many resources in the UVa and Charlottesville communities. Related departments at the University – English, History, Politics, Religious Studies, Art History – are very strong. The University Library has an excellent Slavic collection and outstanding research support facilities. The Russian House is a Russian-language residential facility that hosts academic and social events connected with the Department. The Center for Russian and East European Studies offers lectures and colloquia for the broader community.
