the russian program teaches cultural literacy by providing language competence and a knowledge of texts, films and other forms of representation. students are able to enter the language programs at any level: beginner, intermediate or advanced. intensive language training is provided with the aid of audio-visual materials and use of a computerized language laboratory. the russian literature and culture program aim at providing familiarity with the major texts and issues in literary and cultural history. the aim is also to enrich the student’s understanding of the slavic/russian contribution to the european and the north american cultural heritage. a number of courses are taught in english translation; higher level courses are taught in russian.