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.

Examples of the diverse roles of our graduates include:

Researcher at TNO
Political editor
International relations officer at the European Commission
Communications advisor in government
Regional coordinator at a human rights organisation
Teamlead at the Dutch Council for Refugees
Outreach manager at the Free Russia Foundation
Policy advisor

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.

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."

In which sectors do students find jobs?

The graphs below are based on alumni data from the MA in Russian and Eurasian Studies 2020 through 2024.

23 % Government and semi-government
23 % Financial institutions
15 % Communication and marketing
15 % Non-profit
8 % Research
15 % Other

Career preparation

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

Launch your career with a master’s degree

Continuing your studies after your bachelor's degree pays off. Graduates with a master's degree are more likely to find higher-level positions: 77% start at a university of applied sciences (hbo) or university level, compared to 63% of graduates who only hold a bachelor's degree. This difference remains visible in the long term. After more than two years of work experience, 87% of master's alumni work at a university of applied sciences or university level, compared to 76% of bachelor's alumni.

A unique strength on the job market

The development of in-depth knowledge in the field, and the ability to think critically and analytically are key goals of this programme. Upon graduation, you will have a profound knowledge of either the linguistics, literature and culture, or the history, politics, international relations, and economy of the Russian and Eurasian region.

Do you consider to put your knowledge into practice during your studies? Determine whether an internship could be an option for you. Start orientating your possibilities by visiting an internship information session. This way you can receive information about the internship procedure and listen to tips of former interns.
Notice that you will search for an internship yourself to find a place of your interest. Do you need some help with this or the application process? Do not hesitate to contact the Career Service. When you have found an internship, inform us. Then, the internship coordinator advises you how to proceed and provides your internship plan with feedback so it can be submitted for approval to the board of examiners.

Student Sophie talks about her internship at VPRO

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Our staff can help you identify both the career that is right for you, and the necessary steps to get you there. Our team at the Humanities Career Service provides all Leiden University humanities students with professional advice and guidance on everything from internships and career planning to job applications. Humanities Career Service also organises regular workshops on topics such as effective interview skills and creating a successful CV.

The Humanities Career Service offers you various (online) workshops, webinars and info sessions. Check our overview of career activities.

The Leiden University Career Zone is an online career portal that helps you to prepare for the job market. Here you can find information, tools and tips to help you gain more personal insight, learn about the job market, develop your application skills, plan your academic and professional career, find job vacancies and discover what the Career Service can do for you.

Join the Mentor Network to contact alumni with experience on the labour market and ask them for advice. More than 1200 alumni are happy to help you!

Jelle on finding an internship via Leiden University's Mentor Network

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Student Sophie did an internship at the VPRO

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