When you’re engaging with a new culture, understanding the lyrics to a pop song can be as important as learning the vocabulary of art criticism.

Recognized as one of the best Russian language programs in the world, Middlebury's School of Russian has been offering intensive immersion Russian language and culture instruction for 63 years.

In the Davis School of Russian, you can choose from co-curricular activities that explore the range of historical and contemporary Russian culture, from the slings and arrows of slang to the finer points of fine art. And while you’re interpreting Russian poetry, learning to play the balalaika, or discussing post-Soviet politics, your fluency and vocabulary are increasing by the minute.

In the classroom, our experienced, dedicated teachers will guide you in learning to read, write, speak, and listen in a Russian language that is alive and ever-changing. You’ll acquire all the tools you need to take your language skills to the next level—or the one beyond—and move closer to meeting your career or academic goals.

At Middlebury, the cornerstone of our educational philosophy—and the key to your success—is the Language Pledge. Bound by a promise to speak only Russian, the members of the School of Russian form a community of learners in which intensive language study and expansive personal growth are not the exception, but the rule.