Russian Language + European Studies
Unique Experiences
Join the Tallinn University International Club
and participate in countless events and workshops
Check Out Some of Europe’s Best-Maintained Medieval Architecture
at town hall square, the city wall, St. Olaf’s Church, and more
Try Tallinn’s World-Famous Marzipan
and learn about its history from medicine to a staple in the Russian Imperial Family
2.6 M+
Physical Items in the Tallinn University Library
2nd
Ranked City for Emerging Europe Business-Friendly City Perception for Smart City Development
60 +
Museums and Galleries
Your Destination
Situated on the border of Russia and only a short ferry ride away from Finland, Estonia is an incredible Baltic nation known for being a member of the European Union, Eurozone, and NATO. The country boasts a thriving democracy and is highly developed, with exceptionally advanced digital infrastructure in place.
Estonia’s cultural hub, Tallinn, will be your backdrop while studying abroad in northeastern Europe. Historic gates, defensive towers, cobblestone streets, hilltop castles, and beautiful cathedrals all contribute to Tallinn – also known as the “Gem of the Baltic” – being recognized as one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Today, Tallinn is not only famed for being Estonia’s capital and largest city; it’s also renowned for being the “Silicon Valley of Europe,” as the city is nearly 100% digital.
From Estonia’s 18 exceptional universities – 10 of which teach programs in English – to CIEE’s established partnership with the Tallinn University of Technology (a highly ranked institution known worldwide for its Science & Technology faculty), you’ll have ample opportunities to study emerging academic topics including cyber and energy security, environmental science, entrepreneurship, as well Baltic languages and culture, Russian language, and international public diplomacy.
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Tallinn.
The Culture
Featured Excursion
Overnight trip to Helsinki, the capital of Finland, which is a modern Scandinavian city just two hours away by boat.
Excursions & Activities
- Interact with the student body via Student Union, Student Council, and other organizations
- Participate in university sports activities
- Participate in the buddy program
- Tour major Estonian cities, such as Pärnu (the summer capital of Estonia) or Tartu (the City of Good Thoughts)
- Visit local startups and the Baltic American Freedom Foundation alumni businesses
- Canoe, kayak, hike, or cycle in Estonia’s pristine and unspoiled landscape
- Visit the UNESCO world heritage site, known as one of Europe's best-preserved towns from the Medieval Period
- Network with the Baltic American Freedom Foundation alumni businesses and other local startups
Projects
Students interested in one of the following Academic Projects must submit additional materials as part of their course selection:
- Internships: Build new skills and intercultural competencies through a CIEE academic internship and become an active participant in the local professional environment.
Program Blogs
Interning in Tallinn: Student's Experience
This blog post comes from our Fall 2024 student, Samuel, who had the opportunity to intern at the International Centre for Defence and Security (ICDS). As Estonia's leading think tank... keep reading
Students Meet U.S. Ambassador George P. Kent at the U.S. Embassy in Tallinn
Insights from Ambassador George P. Kent and Public Affairs Officer Michael Snyder We had an amazing visit to the U.S. Embassy in Tallinn, where our students had the incredible opportunity... keep reading
CIEE Tallinn's First Overnight Trip to Helsinki
Greetings from CIEE Tallinn! This weekend we had our first overnight trip to the beautiful city of Helsinki, Finland. Packed with cultural discoveries, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences, our journey... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Tallinn offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to student residence buildings, we will strive for your accommodation preferences to be met. Additionally, all housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, cafés, and eateries.
Standard Housing:
- Homestay: Includes a single room with an Estonian and/or Russian-speaking homestay family to immerse you in the city’s language and culture. Homestays feature a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family and are located under 40 minutes from CIEE Tallinn
Residence Hall: Includes a private room in a student residence building located within walking distance of CIEE Tallinn. All rooms boast a kitchen, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and tv, as well as bed sheets, blankets, towels, and weekly cleaning included in the fee. Students use self-service laundry facilities with other students/guests in the building.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive.
Meals
Homestay: Breakfast and dinner are provided
Residence Halls: Meals are not included in student residence buildings.
Academics
The Russian Language & European Studies program is designed for students looking to learn or improve their Russian language skills while learning about Estonia, the Baltic region, and their role in European politics and the economy. Students will take classes at Tallinn University, where a strong emphasis will be placed on international cooperation and job preparation.
Tallinn University is a public university located in Tallinn and is the third-largest university in Estonia. The university has six institutes and Haapsalu College. Their main focus is on the humanities. Tallinn University is a compact campus with state-of-the-art laboratories, a modern library, a business center, an active student house, a sports hall, several cafes, and numerous student organizations. There is always a way to put what you study into practice.
Fall classes at the University of Tallinn end in December and official exams can take place in January. Spring classes end in May and official exams can take place in early June. Early exams may be possible but must be confirmed on an individual basis with the professor of each course. Students may be able to take their exams early, though only if they request it at the start of the semester. Housing will be covered until all exams are completed. However, as it is impossible to confirm exam schedules prior to arrival, we advise students who wish to take their exams early to book an airline ticket with a low change fee or a flexible departure date.
Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.
Course Information
Students at all language levels may take Russian Language courses. Participants with 0 semesters will be placed in the A1 level and participants with prior Russian language experience will take a placement test to determine language level. To take content courses taught in Russian, students must provide proof of B2-C1 language ability. Otherwise, students may enroll in content courses conducted in English.
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Languages and Cultural Studies
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Languages and Cultural Studies
Tallinn University
0-6 semesters of college-level Russian are required depending on the specific level. Students need to provide proof of B-C1 language level ability. A1 is for beginners.
Students can take courses from the Baltic Film, Media and Arts School, School of Digital Technologies, School of Educational Sciences, School of Governance, Law and Society, School of Humanities, School of Natural Sciences and Health. The list of courses available in English is available online.
Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are taught in English and are mostly 3 U.S. credits.
Sample Course List:
School of Humanities
- Slavonic Languages and Cultures I
- Russian A1
- Russian B1.1
- Russian B2.1
- Russian C1.1
- Phonetics, Lexicology and Word formation of Russian Language (In Russian, minimum B2 required)
- Russian Literacy (In Russian, minimum B2 required)
- 19th Century Russian Literature (In Russian, minimum B2 required)
- Functional Morphology of Russian (In Russian, minimum B2 required)
- Russian and Slavonic Cultural Linguistics (In Russian, minimum B2 required)
- Textual Criticism and Text Commentary (In Russian, minimum B2 required)
Baltic Film, Media and Arts School
- Intercultural Communication
- Introduction to Crossmedia Environments
- Introduction to Estonian Culture
- Film History I
- Introduction to Digital Media and Crossmedia Environments
School of Digital Technologies
- Information Seeking: Sources and Methods
- Computer Games
- Computer Graphics
School of Educational Sciences
- Forum Theatre as a Method of Non-Formal Learning
- Involvement of Parents in Educational Activities and in Support of Child Development in Pre-School Institutions
- Supporting Students with Different Cultural and Language Background
- Educational Technology in Learning Process
- Introduction to Educational Sciences
School of Governance, Law and Society
- Sociology of Gender and Family
- Political Sociology
- Introduction to Sociology
- European Union Competition Law
- Law of Business Associations
- Private International Law
- Society and Law
- Law and Economics
- International Human Rights
- Insurance Law
- Comparative Constitutional Law
School of Natural Sciences and Health
- Adapted Physical Education
- Ecotourism
- Improvement of Physical Fitness I
- Methods of Teaching Games
- Outdoor Activities
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Tallinn's work scene thrives on tech innovation, e-governance, and diverse industries like finance, engineering, and international relations. Known for the highest startups per capita in Europe, the city emphasizes sustainability, with growing sectors in manufacturing and renewable energy, fostering a forward-looking ecosystem.
Business Management and Administration
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.
Government and Public Administration
Gain insight into global policy-making, diplomatic relations, and governance practices in agencies, nonprofits, and firms.
Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security
Experience international legal systems, global justice issues, and law enforcement challenges in courts, firms, and agencies.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Spring 2025 19 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $19,950 |
| Program Fall 2025 17 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $19,950 | |
| Program Fall 2024 17 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $19,850 |
| Program Academic year 2024-2025 41 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $38,800 |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $15,206**
Housing = $4,250***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $19,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $565†
International Airfare = $1,500
Local Transportation = $75††
Books & Supplies = $75
Visa Fees = $100
Personal expenses = $250†††
Total Costs = $2,565Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Student Transportation Card 30€/month
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $15,206**
Housing = $4,250***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $19,950Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $476†
International Airfare = $1,500
Local Transportation = $75††
Books & Supplies = $75
Visa Fees = $100
Personal expenses = $220†††
Total Costs = $2,446Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Student Transportationn Card (13€/month). If nt a student, then 30€/month
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $15,606**
Housing = $3,750***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $19,850Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $476†
International Airfare = $1,500
Local Transportation = $75††
Books & Supplies = $75
Visa Fees = $100
Personal expenses = $220†††
Total Costs = $2,446Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Student Transportationn Card (13€/month). If nt a student, then 30€/month
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Participation Confirmation = $300*
Educational Costs = $30,306**
Housing = $8,000***
Insurance = $194
Total Fees = $38,800Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Meals not included in program fee = $476†
International Airfare = $1,500
Local Transportation = $75††
Books & Supplies = $75
Visa Fees = $100
Personal expenses = $220†††
Total Costs = $2,446Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Student Transportationn Card (13€/month). If nt a student, then 30€/month
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Evelyn Müürsepp
Center Director
Evelyn has 15 years of experience in Estonian Government and two years of experience at CIEE, where she supported the launch of the new CIEE Tallinn Center. Tallinn is Evelyn's...
Mari Prok
Student Life Manager
Mari holds a Master's degree in Social Sciences, blending a multicultural background with over four years of hands-on experience in marketing & IT project management, event planning, and client relations.
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact Us
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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