Russian is an important language in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, regions that continue to experience fundamental economic and political change. There are new opportunities for employment and learning for qualified Americans. The political changes in Russia and former Soviet states have been accompanied by expanding commercial interest from other parts of the world. Likewise, American-Russian contact in the areas of art, health care, religious life, and sports and between individuals has expanded.

BGSU frequently hosts students, faculty and visitors from Russia. Students have plenty of opportunities to interact both inside and outside of the classroom. By learning another language and culture, students enrich their lives and have a broader life perspective.

Students who wish to teach Russian in elementary or high school follow a course of study leading to a degree in the College of Education and Human Development. Although recent BGSU Education-Russian graduates have been successful in finding teaching positions, such students are encouraged to pursue a second subject area to enhance job prospects. The program includes professional education courses, field experience and supervised student teaching. A BGSU Russian faculty member co-authored a textbook on teaching foreign languages in elementary schools.