Russian and Eurasian Studies (MA)

Career prospects

Where do our graduates work? 

The master’s programme in Russian and Eurasian Studies degree is a qualification that will open doors to a wide range of careers. Exactly because the MA in Russian Studies is a unique programme which stands out from other programmes it is often seen as an asset by companies, non-profit organizations and government institutions.

The impact of Russia in the current geopolitical situation which has changed dramatically since the war that Russia started against Ukraine also has led to a bigger demand for graduates with expertise in Russia and a solid command of the Russian language in governmental organisations and NGO’s. As a graduate of the master’s programme in Russian and Eurasian Studies, you will be qualified to meet this demand, with a range of career prospects that are both directly and indirectly related to your studies.

Examples of the diverse roles of our graduates include:

• Academic staff member for Eastern European collection
• Political editor
• Regional coordinator at a human rights organisation
• Librarian of Eastern European material
• Partner for management and business development
• Consultant
• Information manager at a network organisation of consultants and policy experts
• Project manager/policy advisor
• Communications officer at an NGO

Tatiana Kleerebezem-Egorova

Graduated in MA Russian and Eurasian Studies

"During the final period of my studies I managed to find a decent starter’s function in a visa bureau which cooperates with the Russian Consulate in the Hague. Recently I found a new job as office manager at Uranium One. It is an international company which is engaged in mining, production and sale of uranium. As it operates among others in Russia and Kazakhstan I deal with the Russian language and Russian-speaking people every day."

Expanding my knowledge

"Russian and Eurasian Studies offered me a good opportunity to expand my knowledge about Russia and its neighbouring countries in the sphere of politics, economics and culture. Moreover, thanks to well-qualified teachers, I was able to develop my analytical skills and critical thinking. I should mention that I found these studies both personal and flexible. There was always space for your own interests in the field. In addition, student union MOST organises many activities which help to create a warm and friendly atmosphere among the students. I truly enjoyed studying at Leiden University and doing this MA programme."

Jonathan Katzman

Graduated in MA Russian and Eurasian Studies

‘I was in the process of attaining position at a Russian university. But when Russia invaded Ukraine, that dream fell apart. Instead, I find myself working with the people on the other side of the conflict. So, you can say that things have turned out very differently. I now provide support to around sixty Ukrainian refugees living at a converted music school. My ability to speak Russian plays a key role in providing support. Although I had never envisioned working with refugees, I find the work very fulfilling."

‘I especially like working with the children, because even though they have been through very difficult times, they still walk around with a smile on their face,’ he says.

With his own student experience at the back of his mind, he urges current and upcoming students to really think about what makes them tick. ‘I spent a lot of time trying to find the thing I was actually interested in. I enjoyed taking advantage of the electives offered by Leiden University. I eventually settled on Russia as my area of interest. I enjoyed the small course sizes and the in-depth course offerings with great teachers like Matthew Frear. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to take those electives and that I find myself in a position where I can do the work that I do today.

In which sectors do students find jobs?

The graphs below are based on alumni data from the MA in Russian and Eurasian Studies 2016-2020.

• 21 % Communication and marketing
• 14 % Non-profit (e.g. at an idealistic organisation)
• 14 % Education
• 14 % Government and semi-government organisations
• 7 % Consultancy
• 7 % IT
• 7 % Research
• 7 % Information management
• 7 % Wholesale and retail
• 2 % Other

Career preparation

Find out how this programme exactly prepares you for your future career and check our career preparation activities.