Careers and employability
Russian graduates have proficiency in a major world language, as well as an appreciation of the culture in which it is spoken. They are also equipped with valuable transferable skills that are highly sought by employers.
Leeds graduates have an excellent reputation and Leeds is the 4th most targeted university in the UK by graduate recruiters (The Graduate Market in 2024).
You'll be able to research topics independently and think critically about what you find. You’ll also be able to draw your own conclusions and present them effectively, both verbally and in writing. You’ll be a strong communicator, comfortable in a team and on your year abroad you will learn to adapt to new environments and situations.
What do Russian graduates do?
Our graduates go on to work in some of the following areas:
- law
- business
- finance
- tourism
- the civil service
- diplomacy
- journalism
- publishing
- translating
- interpreting
- education
Others have pursued language-based careers such as translating or interpreting, or pursued further training in this area through a postgraduate course. Some have chosen to further their knowledge and expertise in Russian and Slavonic Studies by studying an MA by Research, as preparation for a PhD or a chosen career.
Some of our graduates begin their career in the UK and others work in countries such as the United States, Russia, Azerbaijan, Argentina, Japan and Georgia.
Recent employers include:
- Shell
- the NHS
- Reuters
- the BBC Russian Service
- the Russian Chamber of Commerce
What careers support will I have?
You’ll benefit from bespoke support and opportunities in the School and have access to the activities and expertise of the award-winning University Careers Centre.
School support
Workshops and events are organised for you by the School throughout the year and focus on networking, understanding the value of your language skills, hearing from alumni about their career experiences and hosting graduate recruiters who want to hire you.
We’ll also keep you informed of work and voluntary opportunities that you can fit around your studies.
University support
Our experts in the University’s Careers Centre will support you to make informed decisions about your career path, understand the opportunities available and the steps you need to take to pursue your choices. You’ll be encouraged to attend on-campus events including graduate recruitment fairs, employer networking and information sessions, and meetings with our alumni.
Your year abroad
By studying abroad you'll gain valuable experiences and skills to help you in the graduate job market.
Leeds University Union
The Union provides career-related support through the part-time job hub, student societies and other activities throughout the year. Clubs and societies are a great way to get involved in lots of activities and explore your interests. They’re also a great way to develop your skills such as team working and leadership. For example, you could be a key player in an award-winning sports team, or become a committee member and chair society meetings, or you could even project manage a volunteering trip overseas. The Union is home to School Reps who are appointed by students to represent the views and be the voice of students in your School.
Work experience as you study
You can work during the University holidays or part-time during the year to gain valuable experience. The University offers a range of exclusive short-term internships with a range of employers and there are often opportunities on campus too.
Volunteering is another way to develop valuable skills alongside your language degree. At Leeds there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in, including being on the comittee for your halls of residence, working on a Leeds University Union community project and volunteering for a charity in the Leeds vicinity.
Enterprise
At Leeds, you can access support to help you start your own business. Whether you want to learn about enterprise or become an entrepreneur, we offer award-winning specialist support.