Course content

The course will provide students with an introduction to the history and politics of the Soviet Union and Russia, with attention to the revolutionary origins and historical development of the Soviet Union as well as to post-Soviet developments. Special attention will be paid to nationalities policy, Church-state relations, and gender equality. One week will be devoted to discussing post-1991 Ukraine and Belarus.

Learning outcome

The learning objective is to give the students an overview of the history and politics of the Soviet Union and Russia after 1917.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures/group discussions, 4 hours per week throughout the semester. Supervision of term paper. Form of assessment: Term paper and oral examination. The oral exam covers the term paper as well as readings. The oral exam will be used to adjust the term paper’s grade by a maximum of one grade. The course is offered when teaching resources are available. The language of instruction is English.

Compulsory assignments

• Presentation, participation in 80% of the classes

Recommended previous knowledge

See formal requirements.

Required previous knowledge

POL1000 or 60 credits in History, Sociology or the equivalent.

Course materials

To be decided at the start of the course.

Credit reductions