Russian programs can encompass a wide variety of historical, cultural and linguistic topics. Common classes include Cold War history, modern Russian politics, classical literature, Russian art, Russian authors, women in the Soviet Union, regional analysis, Christianity in Russian and Russian culture.

Russia or, also officially known as the Russian Federation, is a country in northern Eurasia. Education in Russia is provided predominantly by the state and is regulated by the Ministry of Education and Science. In Russia, it takes about 70 % of training time for the contact lessons with a teacher, the rest 30 % of the workload are devoted to the independent study of the material.

A foundation year is a term used to describe an academic year of study that helps prepare students for their chosen degree concentration. Foundation years can be especially useful for students who are just starting their college education.