Russian and Slavic Studies (Ph.D.)

Offered by: Languages,Literatures,Cultures (Faculty of Arts)    
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy

The Ph.D. in Russian and Slavic Studies focuses on the tools and expertise needed to produce original research in and demonstrate an overview of the historical context of modern and contemporary Russian cultural history, with emphasis on recent scholarship, including theoretical, cross-cultural and intermedial developments in the field, and reaching out, where appropriate, from a purely Russo-centric focus into other Slavic cultures.

Note: For information about Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 course offerings, please check back on May 8, 2025. Until then, the "Terms offered" field will appear blank for most courses while the class schedule is being finalized.

Thesis

A thesis for the doctoral degree must constitute original scholarship and must be a distinct contribution to knowledge. It must show familiarity with previous work in the field and must demonstrate ability to plan and carry out research, organize results, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. The research presented must meet current standards of the discipline; as well, the thesis must clearly demonstrate how the research advances knowledge in the field. Finally, the thesis must be written in compliance with norms for academic and scholarly expression and for publication in the public domain.

Required Courses

Complementary Courses (12-18 credits)

12-18 credits at the 600-level or higher, depending on whether the student enters at the Ph.D. 1 or Ph.D. 2 level.  Depending on their individual background, students may be asked to take additional coursework as approved by the Department Graduate Committee.

Language Requirement

Proficiency in Russian, functional ability in English and in French, and proficiency in a second Slavic language, if relevant to the research topic and where deemed appropriate by the Department Graduate Committee.