The Russian and East European Studies (REES) Certificate program develops students' knowledge of the language, history, culture, and contemporary political and economic settings of that region of the world. The program combines area or country-specific courses that give students the needed cultural immersion with more general comparative course work. The program is open to all students seeking a bachelor's degree at UWM and to those who have previously received a bachelor's degree from UWM or any other accredited college or university. The program also is open to students that do not plan to pursue a college or university degree (non-degree student) but who have a strong interest in this topic.

The certificate program is a small program, and students receive a great deal of personalized attention. Students work closely with faculty advisors to ensure their program is meeting their academic goals.