Students in the Stranovedenie program are expected to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice and submit a paper based on their research after the completion of the program. In order to acquaint participants with the economic and cultural achievements of the Russian people, excursions will be organized to visit Saint Petersburg and at least one other city. Students with advanced Russian or who are otherwise capable of independent research may choose to be placed within an academic department to conduct full time research on a major project and take regular courses in their field. Researchers will be assigned an academic advisor at MSU to relate research or scholarly projects to MSU's system, facilitate requests for archival access, help arrange consultations with other MSU faculty and assist in coordinating any research related travel. Typically students receive one bedroom in a two bedroom suite with a bathroom and shower.
Kitchens are available on each floor.
Cafeterias are located on the lower levels and second floor of the Central Sector. Although students will receive a ruble stipend from MSU to be used toward purchasing meals, the stipend will vary both in amount and buying power with the inflation rate and it will be necessary to supplement the stipend to purchase meals. The Fall semester program will begin about September 1 and end by December 23. The Spring semester begins February 1 and ends by May 31. Additional credits may be earned for coursework above this load.