Bishkek: Russian as a Second Language
In Bishkek, you will find a highly personalized and customizable program of intensive language instruction. Although one of our most popular locations, class sizes in Bishkek are the smallest. You will be able to focus on your language skills through personalized attention and optional, specialized language electives, including study of other Central Asian languages. Peer tutoring and an integrated cultural program focusing on Central Asian cultures will take your learning outside the classroom as can optional travel opportunities and active, recommended home stays.
-Curriculum-
Class size is very small in this program. During the semester, you may be studying primarily one-on-one, perhaps in groups of two or three in some electives. Peer tutoring and other activities are an integrated part of your curriculum and intended to introduce you to the culture and community in Bishkek.
Note: To join this program in summer, you should have completed the equivalent of two semesters of college Russian.
RUSS 293/393/493 Russian Language Study
Small, intensive classes focus on reading, writing, grammar, speaking, comprehension, and phonetics for 20 hours per week.
Fall/Spring: 15 credits; Summer (10 weeks): 12 credits; Summer (8 weeks): 10 credits; Summer (6 weeks): 7 credits; Summer (4 weeks): 5 credits.
Elective Language Options
Advanced students who have taken at least 6 semesters of Russian may be considered for the following Russian language electives:
Politics and Economy of Central Asia (3 credits)
Literature and Film of Central Asia (3 credits)
The Golden Age of Russian Literature (3 credits)
Kyrgyz History (3 credits)
Kyrgyz Language Study
It is also possible to study Kyrgyz language either by replacing some of the Russian language credits or by adding on up to 3 additional semester credits (additional fee applies in latter case).
Summer option: RSL+Travel Adventure
The SRAS RSL+ option takes you to another level of adventure and language in practice. The last two weeks of your program will be spent "on the road" as you explore Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. During this time you will also be under a language pledge, meaning that anytime you are in public spaces you will speak Russian only. During the four weeks leading up to your adventure you will prepare with readings and vocabularly lists related to the places you will visit. This is an immersive experience with a prerequisite of at least 4 semesters of Russian (or equivalent).
Additional inclusions for RSL+ students: Uzbekistan visa, transport (ground) from Bishkek to Almaty, flight from Almaty to Tashkent, all accommodations (with breakfasts included in Uzbekistan), guiding/tickets, and meals as per itinerary.
For more information, and to apply, click here.