Study Abroad: Language & Culture in St. Petersburg (HSE)

Deadline for Applications: April 10, 2018

Language & Culture Program in Saint Petersburg, Russia
Program Overview
This unique summer study abroad program at a premier university in Russia combines intensive Russian language coursework with cultural immersion and excursions in Saint Petersburg, Russia’s cultural capital. The program is open to students of all levels, including those with no Russian language skills. The program will run for six weeks and will be based at the Higher School of Economics, one of Russia’s most prestigious and top-rated universities.
Itinerary
July 17- August 25, 2018 (6 weeks)

July 16: Arrive in Saint Petersburg
July 17-Aug 24: Language and culture program
August 26: Departure from Saint Petersburg
The six-week language and culture program in Saint Petersburg includes:
Intensive University Academic Program
●       Four hours of Russian language coursework every weekday taught in Russian by faculty of the Higher School of Economics
●       Weekly lectures in English about Russian politics, culture and economy
●       One-on-one Russian language practice with a student buddy
●       Official transcript eligible for transfer credit upon successful completion of the program
Housing, Meals and Host Families
·      Comfort, convenience and security in a recently renovated student residence hall with kitchens, Wi-Fi, and 24 hour residential support
·      Shared double rooms
·      Option to stay with a Russian host family (includes breakfast)
·      Lunch will be provided at the University cafeteria Monday through Friday
Cultural Program
With one excursion each week, you will explore the city through a series of visits to museums (including the world-famous Hermitage), concerts, ballets, and other events.
A team of HSE Russian buddies will organize additional activities, such as day-long trips to Saint Petersburg historical suburbs, Russian sporting events, cooking and game nights.
About the City
Envisioned by Peter the Great as Russia’s window to the West and designed by French and Italian architects, Saint Petersburg became a testimony to opulence with golden palaces, pastel-colored mansions, and landscaped parks, gardens, and canals. Having endured the horrors of World War II and Stalinist repression, the people now cope with a new political and economic reality. Known as Leningrad from 1924 to 1991, the city of nearly five million is easily navigated by foot, bus, trolley, and an efficient metro system.
Program Cost
The program fee of $3,850 includes:
●       Tuition
●       Housing in a residence hall
●       Lunches on weekdays
●       Full-time program leadership and support
●       Weekly field trips and cultural activities
An additional fee of $600 applies for the host family option which includes breakfast. The final price is subject to change depending on the currency exchange rate.
Students will need to pay for their visa, airfare, textbooks and remaining meals.
Program Requirements
The program is open to Five College students.
Students with no Russian skills are encouraged to apply.
Students are required to have a valid passport in order to be accepted. Russian immigration requires that this passport is valid for 18 months beyond the end date of the program.
Application Process
Application Deadline is April 10, 2018.
Questions?
Contact Irina Shchemeleva at ishemeliova@hse.ru