Irkutsk State University

Quick Facts about Irkutsk State University

• Type: Public
• Students: 14,812
• Campus: Urban
• Tuition: $1,600 – $3,200/year
• Language: Russian, English
• Intakes: Fall

About Irkutsk State University

Academics

ISU's academic and research activities are structured across 8 institutes and 11 faculties, covering a broad spectrum of disciplines. The university emphasizes an "education through science" principle, fostering fundamental research in areas such as high energy physics, analytical chemistry, experimental microbiology, archaeology, ethnography, environmental management, and Baikal studies. Notable programs include those offered by the Baikal International Business School, the Institute of Mathematics and Information Technologies, and the Institute of Philology, Foreign Languages and Media Communication. Senior students have opportunities for specialized courses and internships in university laboratories and scientific research institutions, including those within the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

International Students

Irkutsk State University actively supports its international student community, which comprises over 850 foreign citizens from 35 countries. The Preparatory Faculty for Foreign Citizens offers bridge courses to help international students learn Russian and adapt to university life. While many programs are taught in Russian, ISU also offers Master's degree courses in English, including Philology, Business Communication, Digital Linguistic Educational Content Design, and Economics of Goods and Services Production. The university has over 115 cooperation agreements with foreign partners, facilitating joint educational and double-degree programs, and actively promotes student and faculty exchange, joint research, and cultural integration.

Campus & Location

The university campus is situated within Irkutsk, a city in Eastern Siberia known for its historical architecture, with many university buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Irkutsk offers a unique blend of urban life and proximity to natural wonders, including Lake Baikal. Public transportation in the city includes buses, trolleybuses, and trams, and Irkutsk is a railway junction of the Trans-Siberian Railway, with an international airport providing connections to various cities. The university provides spacious student residences with amenities like computer labs, free Wi-Fi, and self-service laundry.

Career Outcomes

ISU is dedicated to preparing graduates for successful careers, with career services that include participation in career events and assistance with portfolio development. The university has strong industry connections, with corporate partnerships that recruit graduates in fields like finance, economics, IT, metallurgy, chemistry, and engineering. Irkutsk State University has been recognized among the top 20 technical Russian universities for high salaries of IT graduates, with 74% of its IT graduates remaining in Irkutsk. Graduates from ISU's IT programs, specifically from the Institute of Mathematics and Information Technology, the Faculty of Physics, and the Faculty of Business Communication and Computer Science, earn an average of 135,000 rubles per month in Moscow. International students are permitted to work in Russia without needing a special work permit, and proficiency in Russian can be an advantage in securing employment.

Information for International Students at Irkutsk State University

Irkutsk State University in Irkutsk, Russia welcomes international students.

• Visa support available
• On-campus work allowed
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: Russian, English

Admissions Requirements for Irkutsk State University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Irkutsk State University:

• Selectivity: Open (60%+)
• Application deadline: July 15 (Bachelor's/Specialist's), August 1 (Master's), September 1 (Postgraduate)

Apply to Irkutsk State University →

Programs at Irkutsk State University (52 programs)

Irkutsk State University offers 52 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (19)

• Economics (BSc) — 48 months · Russian
  Students learn economic theories, models, and analytical tools to understand market behavior, policy implications, and global economic trends, preparing them for diverse roles in business and government.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst
• Law (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  Students acquire a comprehensive understanding of legal systems, theories, and practices, preparing them for careers in legal professions, public service, or further legal education.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant, Public Servant
• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  This program explores human behavior and mental processes, covering areas like cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and clinical psychology.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Psychologist Assistant, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Counselor
• Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · Russian · STEM
  This program provides a solid foundation in all branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, preparing students for careers in research, industry, and education.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Specialist, Research Scientist
• Philology (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  Students delve into the study of language and literature, focusing on Russian language, literature, and linguistics, while also exploring foreign languages and cultures.
  Field: Philology
  Career outcomes: Translator, Editor, Journalist, Educator
• Physics (BSc) — 48 months · Russian · STEM
  Students gain a comprehensive understanding of fundamental physical laws and phenomena, developing experimental and theoretical skills applicable to research, technology, and industry.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Engineer, Educator, Data Analyst
• Journalism (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  This program trains students in the principles and practices of modern journalism, including reporting, editing, media ethics, and digital media production, preparing them for careers in various media outlets.
  Field: Journalism
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist
• Biology (BSc) — 48 months · Russian · STEM
  Students explore the diversity of life, from molecular to ecosystem levels, gaining knowledge and practical skills in genetics, ecology, physiology, and biotechnology.
  Field: Biology
  Career outcomes: Biologist, Ecologist, Laboratory Assistant, Environmental Scientist
• Jurisprudence (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  This program provides a fundamental understanding of legal principles, systems, and practices, preparing students for careers in law, public service, and related fields.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Judge, Public Prosecutor
• Management (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  This program equips students with essential management skills, including strategic planning, organizational behavior, marketing, and finance, to lead and manage organizations effectively.
  Field: Management
  Career outcomes: Manager, Project Coordinator, Business Analyst, Entrepreneur
• International Relations (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  Students analyze global political, economic, and social issues, developing an understanding of international diplomacy, conflict resolution, and cross-cultural communication.
  Field: International Relations
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Analyst, NGO Worker, Journalist
• History (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  This program offers a comprehensive study of historical events, processes, and cultures, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills essential for understanding the past and present.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator
• Economics (BSc) — 48 months · Russian
  Students learn economic theories, models, and analytical tools to understand market behavior, policy implications, and global economic trends, preparing them for diverse roles in business and government.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst
• Law (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  Students acquire a comprehensive understanding of legal systems, theories, and practices, preparing them for careers in legal professions, public service, or further legal education.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant, Public Servant
• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  This program explores human behavior and mental processes, covering areas like cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and clinical psychology.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Psychologist Assistant, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Counselor
• Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · Russian · STEM
  This program provides a solid foundation in all branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, preparing students for careers in research, industry, and education.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Specialist, Research Scientist
• Philology (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  Students delve into the study of language and literature, focusing on Russian language, literature, and linguistics, while also exploring foreign languages and cultures.
  Field: Philology
  Career outcomes: Translator, Editor, Journalist, Educator
• Physics (BSc) — 48 months · Russian · STEM
  Students gain a comprehensive understanding of fundamental physical laws and phenomena, developing experimental and theoretical skills applicable to research, technology, and industry.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Engineer, Educator, Data Analyst
• Journalism (BA) — 48 months · Russian
  This program trains students in the principles and practices of modern journalism, including reporting, editing, media ethics, and digital media production, preparing them for careers in various media outlets.
  Field: Journalism
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist

Master Programs (19)

• Software Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  This master's program focuses on advanced principles of software design, development, testing, and maintenance, preparing students for leadership roles in software development teams.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, Software Architect, Technical Lead, IT Project Manager
• Organic Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  This program provides in-depth knowledge of organic synthesis, reaction mechanisms, and spectroscopic methods, preparing students for advanced research and development in chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Organic Chemist, Pharmaceutical Scientist, R&D Chemist, Process Chemist
• Financial Management (MSc) — 24 months · Russian
  This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in financial analysis, investment management, corporate finance, and risk management, essential for leadership roles in the financial sector.
  Field: Finance
  Career outcomes: Financial Manager, Investment Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Financial Consultant
• Ecology and Environmental Management (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  Students gain expertise in ecological principles, environmental monitoring, and sustainable resource management, addressing contemporary environmental challenges.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Ecologist, Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Manager
• Theoretical and Mathematical Physics (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  This program delves into advanced concepts of theoretical physics and mathematical methods, preparing students for research careers in academia or advanced scientific fields.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Theoretical Physicist, Researcher, University Lecturer
• Clinical Psychology (MA) — 24 months · Russian
  Students acquire specialized knowledge and practical skills in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and intervention for mental health conditions, preparing them for clinical practice.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Counselor, Therapist, Mental Health Specialist
• Russian Language and Literature (MA) — 24 months · Russian
  This program offers advanced study of Russian linguistics, literary theory, and cultural history, preparing students for academic careers, teaching, and cultural institutions.
  Field: Philology
  Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Researcher, Translator, Cultural Specialist
• International Law (MA) — 24 months · Russian
  Students gain specialized knowledge in public and private international law, human rights, and international relations, preparing them for careers in international organizations, diplomacy, or legal practice.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: International Lawyer, Diplomat, Legal Advisor to NGOs, Researcher
• Applied Mathematics and Informatics (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  This advanced program deepens students' knowledge in mathematical modeling, computational methods, and data science, preparing them for high-level research and development roles in IT and scientific fields.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Research Scientist, AI Specialist
• World Economy (MSc) — 24 months · Russian
  Students analyze global economic processes, international trade, and financial relations, gaining expertise in international economic policy and development.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: International Economist, Trade Analyst, Economic Policy Advisor, International Business Consultant
• Theoretical Physics (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  Students engage in advanced study of theoretical physics, focusing on quantum field theory, general relativity, and statistical mechanics, preparing for academic or research careers.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Physicist, University Lecturer, Research Fellow, Scientific Consultant
• Civil Law, Family Law, Private International Law (MA) — 24 months · Russian
  This specialized program provides in-depth knowledge of civil law, family law, and private international law, preparing students for advanced legal practice and research.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Legal Counsel, Judge, Arbitrator, Legal Scholar
• Financial Economics (MSc) — 24 months · Russian
  Students gain advanced analytical skills in financial markets, corporate finance, and investment strategies, preparing them for careers in banking, investment, and financial analysis.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Financial Manager, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Risk Analyst
• Strategic Management (MBA) — 24 months · Russian
  This program focuses on developing strategic thinking, leadership, and decision-making skills to effectively manage organizations in dynamic global environments.
  Field: Management
  Career outcomes: CEO, Strategic Consultant, Business Development Manager, Senior Manager
• Software Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  This master's program focuses on advanced principles of software design, development, testing, and maintenance, preparing students for leadership roles in software development teams.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, Software Architect, Technical Lead, IT Project Manager
• Software Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  This master's program focuses on advanced principles of software design, development, testing, and maintenance, preparing students for leadership roles in software development teams.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, Software Architect, Technical Lead, IT Project Manager
• Organic Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  This program provides in-depth knowledge of organic synthesis, reaction mechanisms, and spectroscopic methods, preparing students for advanced research and development in chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Organic Chemist, Pharmaceutical Scientist, R&D Chemist, Process Chemist
• Financial Management (MSc) — 24 months · Russian
  This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in financial analysis, investment management, corporate finance, and risk management, essential for leadership roles in the financial sector.
  Field: Finance
  Career outcomes: Financial Manager, Investment Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Financial Consultant
• Ecology and Environmental Management (MSc) — 24 months · Russian · STEM
  Students gain expertise in ecological principles, environmental monitoring, and sustainable resource management, addressing contemporary environmental challenges.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Ecologist, Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Manager

PhD Programs (14)

• Environmental Geochemistry (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  This program involves advanced research into the chemical composition of the Earth and its environmental systems, focusing on pollution, climate change, and natural resource management.
  Field: Geochemistry
  Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Geochemist, University Professor, Environmental Consultant
• Economic Theory (PhD) — 36 months · Russian
  This program focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research in economics, allowing students to contribute to economic thought and policy through rigorous academic work.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist (Government/International Organizations), Research Fellow
• Russian History (PhD) — 36 months · Russian
  This program offers advanced research opportunities in various periods and aspects of Russian history, fostering original scholarship and critical historical analysis.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Historian, University Professor, Archivist, Museum Director
• Solid State Physics (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  Doctoral candidates conduct original research on the physical properties of solid materials, including semiconductors, superconductors, and magnetic materials, contributing to advancements in materials science and technology.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, Materials Scientist, University Professor, R&D Engineer
• Computational Mathematics (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in numerical methods, mathematical modeling, and high-performance computing, contributing to theoretical and applied advancements in various scientific and engineering fields.
  Field: Mathematics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Quantitative Analyst, Computational Engineer
• Physics of Condensed Matter (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  Doctoral candidates conduct cutting-edge research into the properties of solids and liquids, exploring phenomena like superconductivity, magnetism, and semiconductor physics.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Industrial R&D Scientist, Materials Engineer, University Lecturer
• Mathematical Modeling, Numerical Methods and Software Complexes (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in mathematical modeling, developing innovative numerical methods and creating complex software solutions for scientific and industrial applications.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Architect, Quantitative Analyst
• Analytical Chemistry (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  This program involves advanced research in analytical techniques, method development, and application of chemical analysis to various fields, including environmental, forensic, and pharmaceutical sciences.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Chemist, Analytical Method Developer, Quality Assurance Manager, Forensic Scientist
• Ecology (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  Doctoral students conduct independent research on ecological systems, biodiversity, and environmental processes, contributing to scientific understanding and conservation efforts.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Ecological Researcher, Environmental Policy Advisor, Conservation Scientist, University Professor
• Environmental Geochemistry (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  This program involves advanced research into the chemical composition of the Earth and its environmental systems, focusing on pollution, climate change, and natural resource management.
  Field: Geochemistry
  Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Geochemist, University Professor, Environmental Consultant
• Environmental Geochemistry (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  This program involves advanced research into the chemical composition of the Earth and its environmental systems, focusing on pollution, climate change, and natural resource management.
  Field: Geochemistry
  Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Geochemist, University Professor, Environmental Consultant
• Economic Theory (PhD) — 36 months · Russian
  This program focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research in economics, allowing students to contribute to economic thought and policy through rigorous academic work.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist (Government/International Organizations), Research Fellow
• Russian History (PhD) — 36 months · Russian
  This program offers advanced research opportunities in various periods and aspects of Russian history, fostering original scholarship and critical historical analysis.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Historian, University Professor, Archivist, Museum Director
• Solid State Physics (PhD) — 36 months · Russian · STEM
  Doctoral candidates conduct original research on the physical properties of solid materials, including semiconductors, superconductors, and magnetic materials, contributing to advancements in materials science and technology.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, Materials Scientist, University Professor, R&D Engineer

Scholarships & Tuition at Irkutsk State University

Annual tuition for international students: $1,600 – $3,200/year

✅ Irkutsk State University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Irkutsk State University

• National Ranking: #39 in Russia
• QS World University Ranking: #1401
• Times Higher Education (THE): #1501
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Irkutsk State University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• No disability support info
• Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

• Established 1918, Eastern Siberia leader
• Diverse academic and research programs
• "Education through science" principle
• Strong international student community
• English-taught Master's degrees available
• Extensive global cooperation agreements

Accreditation

• Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation

Fields of Study at Irkutsk State University

• Law
• Economics
• Linguistics
• History

Notable Alumni

• Valentin Rasputin
• Alexander Vampilov
• Erdenebalsuren Damdin
• Mark Sergeev
• Evgeny Chernikin

Frequently Asked Questions about Irkutsk State University

Apply to Irkutsk State University with Abroadly

Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to Irkutsk State University. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.

Explore Abroadly Features | For Students | For Agencies

Visit Irkutsk State University Official Website →

Explore More Universities

• All universities in 🇷🇺 Russia
• Browse all universities on Abroadly