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Russian Studies (Literature, Linguistics, Culture)

Russian Studies (Literature, Linguistics, Culture)

The Russian Studies (Literature, Linguistics, Culture) Master’s programme prepares highly qualified analysts and researchers in Russian literature, culture, and linguistics. The programme is built on the principles reflected in its vision: Russian Studies at Vilnius University: Language, Literature and Media Studies in View of European Values. Graduates develop strong critical thinking skills, and the programme equips them to address both theoretical and practical issues related to contemporary language, literature, and cultural processes.

  • Career Flexibility
  • Cultural Awareness and Intercultural Collaboration
  • Research and Independent Problem-Solving Abilities

Russian Studies (Literature, Linguistics, Culture)

The Russian Studies (Literature, Linguistics, Culture) Master’s programme prepares highly qualified analysts and researchers in Russian literature, culture, and linguistics. The programme is built on the principles reflected in its vision: Russian Studies at Vilnius University: Language, Literature and Media Studies in View of European Values. Graduates develop strong critical thinking skills, and the programme equips them to address both theoretical and practical issues related to contemporary language, literature, and cultural processes.

  • Career Flexibility
  • Cultural Awareness and Intercultural Collaboration
  • Research and Independent Problem-Solving Abilities
Filologijs_I(3).jpg
Apply now

  • degree of Master of Humanities
  • Faculty of Philology
  • 2
  • Humanities
  • Philology by language
  • 120.0
  • Full-time
  • English

  • degree of Master of Humanities
  • Faculty of Philology
  • 2
  • Humanities
  • Philology by language
  • 120.0
  • Full-time
  • English

Get acquainted with the detailed study plan.

Peržiūrėti programos planą
  • You will be able to analyze and evaluate Russian language phenomena using the latest theories and methods of linguistic schools, and explain language features in a broader linguistic and intercultural context.
  • You will be able to understand the Russian literary canon and Russian culture as a complex phenomenon, and analyze and evaluate Russian literary and cultural texts of different genres.
  • You will be able to produce and edit texts in Russian across various genres professionally, and communicate effectively in writing and orally, adapting to different communicative situations.
  • You will be able to make effective use of modern information technologies, data resources, and sources (texts, dictionaries, term banks, etc.) related to the Russian language.
  • You will be able to independently select a topical linguistic, literary, cultural, or interdisciplinary problem, carry out research, and present your results to diverse audiences.
  • You will learn to debate in a reasoned way about the processes and issues of language, literature, and culture in contemporary society.
  • You will be able to identify differences in cultural identities and attitudes between yourself and others, and cooperate with people from different cultures to achieve common goals.
  • You will be able to take responsibility for the quality and continuous improvement of your work.
Entry qualification

Undergraduate diploma (or higher)

N. B. for non-EU/EFTA applicants: the gap since your completed Bachelor degree should not exceed five years.

The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English / Lithuanian.

Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

You must take the original entry qualification documents along with you when you finally go to the university.

Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

Translation is considered to be official when it is bound together with the certified true copy of the original document and is confirmed by the translator’s signature. Documents issued in English, Lithuanian must be certified true copies and do not require translation.

It is required that you send verified copies of the entry qualification documents directly to the university by postal mail. Important! Never send original documents by post!

Check additional country-specific requirements
Language requirements

English

Russian

English language proficiency (at least B2 level according to the CEFR), as demonstrated by passing one of the international examinations:
- IELTS score: 6+,
- TOEFL score: 500 (paper based) or 60+ (iBT Internet–based test
- Cambridge English exam: 173+,
- Pearson PTE Academic: 65+,
- LanguageCert IESOL B2,
- Duolingo English Test: 105+
- or other proof of English language proficiency at B2 level according to the CEFR.

Proficiency in Russian at least at B2 level according to the CEFR.

Applicants can be exempt from providing a level confirming certificate in cases described in the General admission requirements

Proving your language skills

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Find your programme

When choosing a study programme, consider whether the subjects match your interests and strengths, as this will keep you motivated. You should also think about career opportunities, costs, and whether the programme fits your long-term goals.

Keep in mind that each applicant can choose up to three study programmes in one application, but you can only get admitted to one programme.

Check the application dates

For international applicants: 
1 May | for applicants from non-EU/EFTA countries 
1 July | for applicants who are citizens of EU/EFTA countries and for non-EU/EFTA applicants with a 90-day visa-free period that has not yet been exceeded.
The academic year always begins on 1 September.

Our International admissions have one intake per academic year. You can only submit your application during the application period.  

The application dates may differ if you are applying for a programme taught in Lithuanian or if you are eligible to apply for state-funded places.

Check your eligibility and prepare the necessary documents

In order to apply to Vilnius University, you must meet the general and programme-specific admission requirements, as well as the language proficiency requirements. In certain cases, specific territorial requirements may also apply. You can find all the specific requirements for this programme in the 'Admissions requirements' section.

For applicants from non-EU and non-EFTA countries, the period between obtaining your most recent secondary or higher education qualification and submitting your application may not exceed 5 years.

 

Check the country-specific requirements

Pay the application fee and submit your application

The application to the international bachelor's or integrated studies degree programmes must be submitted on apply.vu.lt

The application fee is 100 EUR per application. The invoice is paid after adding the programmes to the application. Application fee payments are accepted only through the Flywire payment platform.

An online application will be processed only after the application fee is collected and the application is submitted with all the required documents. All documents must be submitted before the application submission deadline; otherwise, the application is terminated.

Please note: The application fee is non-refundable. Be sure to read the admission requirements and deadlines carefully before applying, as fees cannot be refunded if you are found ineligible or miss a deadline.

Create the application accountPrepare the required documents

Take the interview

If your qualification and motivation match the programme, you will receive an invitation for an interview with the Admissions Committee.

Confirm the acceptance and pay the tuition fee

Your application will be assessed within 30 calendar days from the date all required documents are submitted (this period may be extended in specific cases).

Acceptance letters or rejection notifications will be sent via the online application system https://apply.vu.lt.

Students are obliged to confirm if they accept the study offer within 7 working days.

Students who are citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area countries and of other foreign countries, admitted to non-state-funded places in the first year of first-cycle and second-cycle studies through the University’s foreign student application system, must pay the annual tuition fee within 15 calendar days from the date of the offer to study.

Description of the Procedure of Payment, Reimbursement, and Recovery of Tuition Fees at Vilnius University 

The information about the tuition fee refund policy  

After the student pays the tuition fee, he receives the final acceptance letter. Then our International Relations Office provides the necessary information related to obtaining a temporary residence permit in Lithuania and sends a mediation letter to the student by e-mail (for non-EU citizens).

Arrange your arrival

Things to consider:

  • All international students have to apply for a visa, temporary residence permit or certificate of temporary residence in the Republic of Lithuania depending on their citizenship and the length of their studies at Vilnius University. 
  • If you require accommodation, you may apply for a dormitory via the application platform at apply.vu.lt. The task for accommodation appears after the tuition fee is paid and the final acceptance letter is received. 
  • More information about the start of your studies here.
Visa & Residence PermitArrange you accommodation
  • 5 815 EUR
Tuition fee

Students who are citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area countries and of other foreign countries, admitted to non-state-funded places in the first year of first-cycle and second-cycle studies through the University’s foreign student application system, must pay the annual tuition fee within 15 calendar days from the date of the offer to study.

After the student pays the tuition fee, he receives the final acceptance letter. Then our International Relations Office provides the necessary information related to obtaining a temporary residence permit in Lithuania and sends a mediation letter to the student by e-mail (for non-EU citizens).

Application fee

The application fee is €100 per application. Each applicant can choose up to three programmes within one application. 
Online applications will only be processed once the application fee has been paid. 

Please note that the application fee is non-refundable. Make sure you read the admission requirements and deadlines carefully before submitting your application, as the fee cannot be refunded if you are found to be ineligible or miss a deadline. 

Scholarships for Master's

  • degree of Master of Humanities
  • Faculty of Philology
  • 2
  • Humanities
  • Philology by language
  • 120.0
  • Full-time
  • English

  • degree of Master of Humanities
  • Faculty of Philology
  • 2
  • Humanities
  • Philology by language
  • 120.0
  • Full-time
  • English

Get acquainted with the detailed study plan.

Peržiūrėti programos planą
  • You will be able to analyze and evaluate Russian language phenomena using the latest theories and methods of linguistic schools, and explain language features in a broader linguistic and intercultural context.
  • You will be able to understand the Russian literary canon and Russian culture as a complex phenomenon, and analyze and evaluate Russian literary and cultural texts of different genres.
  • You will be able to produce and edit texts in Russian across various genres professionally, and communicate effectively in writing and orally, adapting to different communicative situations.
  • You will be able to make effective use of modern information technologies, data resources, and sources (texts, dictionaries, term banks, etc.) related to the Russian language.
  • You will be able to independently select a topical linguistic, literary, cultural, or interdisciplinary problem, carry out research, and present your results to diverse audiences.
  • You will learn to debate in a reasoned way about the processes and issues of language, literature, and culture in contemporary society.
  • You will be able to identify differences in cultural identities and attitudes between yourself and others, and cooperate with people from different cultures to achieve common goals.
  • You will be able to take responsibility for the quality and continuous improvement of your work.
Entry qualification

Undergraduate diploma (or higher)

N. B. for non-EU/EFTA applicants: the gap since your completed Bachelor degree should not exceed five years.

The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English / Lithuanian.

Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

You must take the original entry qualification documents along with you when you finally go to the university.

Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original.

Translation is considered to be official when it is bound together with the certified true copy of the original document and is confirmed by the translator’s signature. Documents issued in English, Lithuanian must be certified true copies and do not require translation.

It is required that you send verified copies of the entry qualification documents directly to the university by postal mail. Important! Never send original documents by post!

Check additional country-specific requirements
Language requirements

English

Russian

English language proficiency (at least B2 level according to the CEFR), as demonstrated by passing one of the international examinations:
- IELTS score: 6+,
- TOEFL score: 500 (paper based) or 60+ (iBT Internet–based test
- Cambridge English exam: 173+,
- Pearson PTE Academic: 65+,
- LanguageCert IESOL B2,
- Duolingo English Test: 105+
- or other proof of English language proficiency at B2 level according to the CEFR.

Proficiency in Russian at least at B2 level according to the CEFR.

Applicants can be exempt from providing a level confirming certificate in cases described in the General admission requirements

Proving your language skills

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Find your programme

When choosing a study programme, consider whether the subjects match your interests and strengths, as this will keep you motivated. You should also think about career opportunities, costs, and whether the programme fits your long-term goals.

Keep in mind that each applicant can choose up to three study programmes in one application, but you can only get admitted to one programme.

Check the application dates

For international applicants: 
1 May | for applicants from non-EU/EFTA countries 
1 July | for applicants who are citizens of EU/EFTA countries and for non-EU/EFTA applicants with a 90-day visa-free period that has not yet been exceeded.
The academic year always begins on 1 September.

Our International admissions have one intake per academic year. You can only submit your application during the application period.  

The application dates may differ if you are applying for a programme taught in Lithuanian or if you are eligible to apply for state-funded places.

Check your eligibility and prepare the necessary documents

In order to apply to Vilnius University, you must meet the general and programme-specific admission requirements, as well as the language proficiency requirements. In certain cases, specific territorial requirements may also apply. You can find all the specific requirements for this programme in the 'Admissions requirements' section.

For applicants from non-EU and non-EFTA countries, the period between obtaining your most recent secondary or higher education qualification and submitting your application may not exceed 5 years.

 

Check the country-specific requirements

Pay the application fee and submit your application

The application to the international bachelor's or integrated studies degree programmes must be submitted on apply.vu.lt

The application fee is 100 EUR per application. The invoice is paid after adding the programmes to the application. Application fee payments are accepted only through the Flywire payment platform.

An online application will be processed only after the application fee is collected and the application is submitted with all the required documents. All documents must be submitted before the application submission deadline; otherwise, the application is terminated.

Please note: The application fee is non-refundable. Be sure to read the admission requirements and deadlines carefully before applying, as fees cannot be refunded if you are found ineligible or miss a deadline.

Create the application accountPrepare the required documents

Take the interview

If your qualification and motivation match the programme, you will receive an invitation for an interview with the Admissions Committee.

Confirm the acceptance and pay the tuition fee

Your application will be assessed within 30 calendar days from the date all required documents are submitted (this period may be extended in specific cases).

Acceptance letters or rejection notifications will be sent via the online application system https://apply.vu.lt.

Students are obliged to confirm if they accept the study offer within 7 working days.

Students who are citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area countries and of other foreign countries, admitted to non-state-funded places in the first year of first-cycle and second-cycle studies through the University’s foreign student application system, must pay the annual tuition fee within 15 calendar days from the date of the offer to study.

Description of the Procedure of Payment, Reimbursement, and Recovery of Tuition Fees at Vilnius University 

The information about the tuition fee refund policy  

After the student pays the tuition fee, he receives the final acceptance letter. Then our International Relations Office provides the necessary information related to obtaining a temporary residence permit in Lithuania and sends a mediation letter to the student by e-mail (for non-EU citizens).

Arrange your arrival

Things to consider:

  • All international students have to apply for a visa, temporary residence permit or certificate of temporary residence in the Republic of Lithuania depending on their citizenship and the length of their studies at Vilnius University. 
  • If you require accommodation, you may apply for a dormitory via the application platform at apply.vu.lt. The task for accommodation appears after the tuition fee is paid and the final acceptance letter is received. 
  • More information about the start of your studies here.
Visa & Residence PermitArrange you accommodation
  • 5 815 EUR
Tuition fee

Students who are citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area countries and of other foreign countries, admitted to non-state-funded places in the first year of first-cycle and second-cycle studies through the University’s foreign student application system, must pay the annual tuition fee within 15 calendar days from the date of the offer to study.

After the student pays the tuition fee, he receives the final acceptance letter. Then our International Relations Office provides the necessary information related to obtaining a temporary residence permit in Lithuania and sends a mediation letter to the student by e-mail (for non-EU citizens).

Application fee

The application fee is €100 per application. Each applicant can choose up to three programmes within one application. 
Online applications will only be processed once the application fee has been paid. 

Please note that the application fee is non-refundable. Make sure you read the admission requirements and deadlines carefully before submitting your application, as the fee cannot be refunded if you are found to be ineligible or miss a deadline. 

Scholarships for Master's
B_Anglų ir kita užsienio kalba (abi)_III.jpg

Career prospects

Graduates of the Russian Studies (Literature, Linguistics, Culture) programme are well prepared for diverse and evolving career paths that require a deep understanding of the Russian language, literature, and culture in both historical and contemporary contexts. Graduates can work in: 1) Academic field – research, teaching, and participation in scholarly projects. 2) Cultural diplomacy & international relations – positions in embassies, cultural institutes, NGOs, and international organisations. 3) Translation, editing & publishing – professional opportunities in publishing houses, media, and creative industries. 4) In the fields of public communication and education – working in positions where conceptual and critical thinking, as well as the ability to integrate literary, cultural, and linguistic processes, are essential (as educators, communication or project managers, or experts).

University lecturer or researcher

/

Specialist in linguistic, literary, or cultural research

/

Museum or cultural centre curator

/

Educational programme coordinator

/

Editor

/

Translator

/

Content creator

Why choose this programme?

Olga Fedorovskaya 

Programme alumna

The Vilnius University program “Russian Studies: Literature, Linguistics, Culture” offers a meticulously balanced curriculum covering various areas: linguistics, art canon, 19th-21st century literature, and the influence of history on cultural development. Students can choose from a broad range of courses, including the linguistic history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, media linguistics, and more. It is worth highlighting the excellent interaction with the teaching staff, which facilitates quick resolution of challenges and creates a conducive learning environment. Motivated students are given every opportunity for deep immersion in the subject matter, with lectures that include discussions and various options for creative expression, professional, and personal growth. Vilnius University offers excellent opportunities for those seeking comprehensive education, combining academic excellence with personalized support and attention to each student. My firsthand experience confirms all of the above, and I wholeheartedly recommend this program.

Rusistika Olga Fedorovskaya.jpg
Accommodation
Financial Support
Exchange opportunities

Chat with VU students

If you need more information or personalised advice, choose a VU Ambassador from your home country or the desired study programme and submit your question using the form below. You can expect to hear back from us within 2–3 working days.

Alina Lukashova

What I appreciate most about the Russian Studies programme is that each course opens a new perspective on the study of literature, linguistics, or culture, while also allowing you to view these fields through the prism of Lithuania’s cultural and historical context. The lecturers not only share their knowledge — they guide, support, and inspire. It is a space where every student’s opinion is valued and their ideas are taken seriously.

Contact our Ambassadors
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Rusistika Alina Lukashova.jpg
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Rusistika Alina Lukashova.jpg