Russian is one of the world s major languages, with almost two hundred million native speakers in Europe and Asia. The acquisition of practical language skills at undergraduate level is emphasized through a variety of teaching approaches and interactive learning situations. Courses in Russian cultural history, literature, and film are also available in English. The main aims of the Honours year are: To enable students with an adequate background in Russian to pursue further study in one specialist area in more depth than is possible with a pass degree To enhance students capacity for independent research and to acquire research skills appropriate to their area of specialisation. To train to a standard sufficient for enrolment in postgraduate research degrees, and for a specialist career. Achievement of first class or IIA honours allows direct entry to a PhD program.

An Honours year in Russian focuses on developing and consolidating the knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate study, with particular emphasis on utilising those skills in a sustained and purposeful way by conducting independent research. Apart from content knowledge, employers and professionals value both the reliability and capacity for independent work, and the skill at writing substantial reports which are demonstrated by successful completion of Honours.