While current geopolitical conditions make travel to Russia impossible, students in the Russian Program at Tulane have access to a number of exciting and academically rich alternatives in the post-Soviet space. Studying Russian in countries such as Georgia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Estonia, and Latvia offers not only immersive language instruction but also the unique opportunity to engage firsthand with the diverse cultures, histories, and political landscapes that continue to shape the broader Russian-speaking world. These programs introduce students to local perspectives on empire, identity, and decolonization, making them especially relevant today. Studying Russian in these contexts also helps students deepen their intercultural competence, adapt to varied environments, and expand their understanding of the post-Soviet region beyond the Russian Federation—an invaluable experience for careers in international affairs, public policy, human rights, and beyond.
Featured Programs:
SRAS Tbilisi: Russian as a Second Language
In Tbilisi, Georgia, an intensive and supportive environment for Russian language study is paired with homestay to provide you with an immersive language and cultural experience. Out-of-classroom experiences and special lectures and workshops introduce you to local Georgian identity, history, and current issues in contemporary Georgia. Tbilisi is a very affordable option for study abroad, due to the many inclusions in this program and the generally low cost of living.
Summer RSL in Georgia is also available in Batumi.
Courses:
All SRAS Russian as a Second Language programs aim to immerse students in the language with a combination of classroom hours, peer tutoring, and out-of-classroom experiences.
Course levels: RUSS 101–102 / 201–202 / 301–302–303 / 401
Small, intensive classes focus on reading, writing, grammar, speaking, comprehension, and phonetics for 20 contact hours per week.
Fall/Spring: 280 hours / 16 credits
Read more on the Tulane Study Abroad website.
Middlebury: Study Abroad in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a Central Asian state bordering Russia, Kyrgyzstan, China, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. A leader in economics, innovation, and international education, Kazakhstan is rapidly developing while preserving its rich cultural traditions.
The program takes place in the capital city of Astana—a dynamic, modern city known for its world-class infrastructure and architecture. With a population of over one million, Astana combines global ambition with cultural depth, offering students a vibrant and safe environment for Russian language immersion.
Read more on the Tulane Study Abroad website.
CIEE: Study Abroad in Estonia
Study in Estonia and explore this Baltic nation's diverse landscapes, unique lifestyle, and booming tech scene. Based in Tallinn—often called the “Gem of the Baltic”—this program introduces students to one of Europe’s most digitally innovative societies. Students earn academic credit while experiencing Estonia’s rich history, cultural heritage, and forward-thinking atmosphere.
Read more on CIEE.org.
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Additional Opportunity: Project GO (Project Global Officer)
Project Global Officer (Project GO) is a Department of Defense initiative aimed at enhancing the language proficiency, regional expertise, and intercultural communication skills of future U.S. military officers. Sponsored by the Defense Language and National Security Education Office and administered by the Institute of International Education, Project GO provides fully funded scholarships for ROTC students, including those in Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps ROTC programs.
Through institutional partnerships with universities nationwide, Project GO supports intensive summer language programs that include study abroad opportunities in regions outside of Russia, such as the Baltics, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. The program also promotes collaborative training and cultural immersion, helping ROTC cadets build essential competencies for global service and leadership.
Students pursuing the Russian Major or Minor at Tulane who are enrolled in any ROTC branch are encouraged to explore Project GO as a way to combine their military training with advanced language study and regional expertise.