By developing students’ language skills and expanding their knowledge of Russian culture and society, the Russian Studies program strives to make students active participants in the multicultural, global community. Because Russian is one of the less-frequently taught languages, a major in Russian can become a unique and decisive factor in students’ future careers in law, business, journalism, international affairs, academia, and public and government services. The faculty of the Russian Studies program believes that even with a mastery of Russian grammar, real communication is still impossible unless students become familiar with Russian culture and society and the life experiences of Russians. For that reason the Russian Studies program offers courses in literature, culture, film, and Russian society (both in Russian and English).