Icelandic

Studying Icelandic is an adventurous task. Delving into the study of another language can offer you a better understanding and appreciation of the indispensable role of culture. The study of Icelandic prepares students for opportunities in interpretation, translation, teaching, research, writing and publishing.

Field of study: Scandinavian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics

field_of_study: Icelandic Language and Literature
degree_title: Bachelor of Arts in Icelandic Language and Literature
duration: 4 years
study_format: Full-time
language_of_instruction: Icelandic and English
admission_requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, proficiency in Icelandic and English
program_overview: The Bachelor of Arts in Icelandic Language and Literature offers an in-depth exploration of Icelandic language, history, and literary tradition. This comprehensive program is designed to provide students with a robust understanding of Icelandic linguistic structures, literary works spanning from medieval sagas to contemporary texts, and cultural developments in Icelandic society. Throughout the program, students engage in advanced language courses aimed at achieving fluency in Icelandic, alongside literature seminars that analyze influential Icelandic writers and texts. The curriculum emphasizes both language proficiency and literary analysis, fostering skills in critical thinking, research, and academic writing. Students will also explore Icelandic folklore, mythology, and cultural history, gaining a well-rounded perspective of the nation's rich heritage. The program encourages participation in linguistic research projects, literary readings, and cultural excursions, ensuring a dynamic and immersive learning experience. Graduates will be prepared for careers in academia, publishing, cultural preservation, translation, and international relations involving Icelandic language and culture. The program maintains close collaboration with Icelandic cultural institutions and offers opportunities for study abroad, internships, and research exchanges. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, graduates of this program will be well-equipped to contribute to the fields of linguistics, literature, translation, and cultural studies, promoting Icelandic language and culture globally.

Program requirements for the Icelandic language degree at the University of Manitoba include a comprehensive set of courses designed to develop proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding Icelandic. Students are typically required to complete foundational courses in Icelandic language that cover grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. These introductory courses aim to establish a solid linguistic base and familiarize students with Icelandic syntax and phonetics.

Advanced coursework builds on this foundation, focusing on complex grammatical structures, idiomatic expressions, and literary analysis. Students often have the opportunity to study Icelandic literature, culture, and history, integrating linguistic skills with cultural understanding. To gain fluency, students are encouraged or required to participate in immersive experiences, such as language labs, conversation practice, or study abroad programs in Iceland, which may be part of the curriculum or offered as supplementary opportunities.

In addition to language courses, students may be required to complete coursework in translation, Icelandic-English interpretation, or Scandinavian studies, depending on their academic focus. Programs frequently demand the completion of a certain number of credit hours, which includes both coursework and possibly a thesis or capstone project examining an aspect of Icelandic language or culture.

Language proficiency is assessed through a combination of written exams, oral interviews, and coursework participation. To graduate, students must demonstrate a high level of competence in all four language skills, as well as a broad understanding of Icelandic cultural contexts. The program's overall aim is to prepare students for graduate studies, professional careers in translation or linguistics, or other fields requiring advanced knowledge of Icelandic language and culture. Exact credit hour requirements or specific courses may vary, and students are advised to consult the university’s official curriculum for detailed information.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Icelandic language program at the University of Manitoba is primarily supported through a combination of institutional funding, government grants, and private donations. The university allocates resources to develop and sustain the program, ensuring it maintains high-quality standards and up-to-date curricula. Government funding may be obtained through cultural and educational initiatives aimed at promoting linguistic diversity and supporting language preservation programs. Additionally, students may access financial aid resources such as scholarships, bursaries, and student loans, which can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with the program. The university also encourages external funding opportunities, including research grants and partnerships with cultural organizations dedicated to preserving Icelandic heritage. These funding streams enable the program to offer a comprehensive education that incorporates modern teaching methodologies, extensive language practice, and cultural immersion experiences. The cost of studying Icelandic may vary depending on factors such as residency status, the number of courses taken per semester, and additional expenses related to study materials and travel. International students might have access to specific scholarship programs intended to attract talented individuals from around the world. The university’s commitment to maintaining accessible education ensures that financial support is available for qualified students, fostering diversity within the classroom. Moreover, some funding may be directed toward community outreach programs and cultural events that enhance the learning experience and promote Icelandic language and culture within the broader community. Overall, the funding structure for the Icelandic language program reflects the university's dedication to cultural preservation, academic excellence, and inclusive education, ensuring that students have the necessary financial resources to succeed and contribute to Icelandic linguistic and cultural preservation efforts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Icelandic at the University of Manitoba offers students an in-depth exploration of Icelandic language, literature, history, and culture. This program aims to develop proficiency in the Icelandic language, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, while also providing a comprehensive understanding of Icelandic literary works from the medieval period to contemporary times. Students are exposed to a variety of texts such as sagas, poetry, modern prose, and other media, fostering critical analysis and cultural appreciation. Additionally, the program emphasizes the historical and cultural contexts that have shaped Icelandic society, offering insights into Iceland's unique heritage, mythologies, and societal transformations over centuries. The curriculum typically includes language courses, literature classes, courses on Icelandic history and culture, and research projects. Students may also have opportunities for intercultural exchange or studying abroad in Iceland, which enriches their linguistic competence and cultural understanding. The program is suitable for students interested in linguistics, Scandinavian studies, literary studies, or cultural history. Graduates of this program often pursue careers in translation, academia, cultural preservation, or international relations where knowledge of Icelandic and Nordic culture is advantageous. The University of Manitoba's faculty adopts a multidisciplinary approach, blending language instruction with cultural studies, ensuring students gain both linguistic skills and contextual knowledge. This degree program prepares students for further postgraduate study or professional roles that require expertise in Icelandic language and culture. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Icelandic provides a rigorous academic experience that combines language acquisition with cultural immersion, preparing graduates for a globalized world with deep appreciation and understanding of Icelandic heritage and society.