The major field program in Russia Studies focuses on the historical and cultural development of Russia from the beginnings to the present. The course of study teaches active skills in the Russian language and knowledge concerning the Russian cultural area in its geographical context. The program focuses on history, literature, and regional and cultural studies. Graduates should be capable of analyzing and understanding the historical, linguistic, and cultural processes and structures of Russia. The Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures would like to point out that the program Russia Studies is not intended for native speakers of Russian. The department recommends for native speakers to select Slavic Studies as a major field instead.