The Herzen State Pedaogical University is one of the oldest universities in Russia founded n 1797 by Emperor Paul the First.The University lies in the heart of St Petersburg, Russia's "Northern Capitol". Over the course of its history, The Herzen University has established a tradition of teaching excellence, and embraced the dignity of St Petersburg—one of the most beautiful cities in the world, famous for its monuments, its museums, and its vibrant cultural and academic life.

NYI is strongly supported by Herzen University Rector Sergei Bogdanov and Vice Rector for International Cooperation, Julia Komarova.

Stony Brook University was established in 1957 in Oyster Bay, Long Island. In 1962, a new campus was built near the historic village of Stony Brook, about 60 miles east of Manhattan and 60 miles west of Montauk Point. Part of the SUNY system, the University has grown tremendously and is now recognized as one of the nation’s important centers of learning and scholarship.

The NYI program is suppoprted by the Stony Brook International Academic Programs and Services office and the Department of Linguistics.