The Russian Program at SAIS is a professionally oriented program for graduate students of Russian international and domestic politics, socioeconomics and national security. Courses are offered at the Novice, Intermediate and Advanced levels. Each level is covered in two semesters.

The Novice level introduces basic Russian grammar and vocabulary used to satisfy “survival” needs. Elements of reading newspaper articles begin at this level. At the Intermediate-Low level, grammar and vocabulary are strengthened through listening, speaking and reading activities. At the Intermediate-High level, grammar and specialized vocabulary are expanded through materials of greater length and sophistication.

Students starting to study Russian at SAIS at the Novice level must take four semesters of classes to reach the minimum graduation levels. To satisfy the language requirement in Russian, students are expected to achieve the following levels of proficiency: Intermediate Mid in listening, speaking and reading.

Post-proficiency courses allow students to maintain their level of proficiency, or even raise it to a higher level.