Scandinavian Studies and History

Scandinavian Studies and History at University College London offers students a comprehensive exploration of the Nordic countries' rich cultural, historical, and linguistic heritage, combined with an in-depth study of historical developments across Europe. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to provide a thorough understanding of Scandinavia’s social, political, and cultural evolution from ancient times to the modern era, while also developing language proficiency in one or more Scandinavian languages such as Swedish, Danish, or Norwegian. Students will engage with a broad range of historical sources, literary texts, and contemporary issues, fostering critical analysis and intercultural skills essential for careers in academia, international relations, media, and cultural sectors. The programme emphasizes both the regional specificity of Scandinavian countries and their interconnectedness within European history and global contexts. Through lectures, seminars, and research projects, students will examine topics such as Nordic mythology, Viking history, modern Scandinavian politics, welfare models, arts, and literature, alongside global historical trends. The programme also encourages engagement with primary sources and fieldwork, where applicable, to enhance experiential learning. Graduates will be equipped with advanced research methodologies, language skills, and a nuanced understanding of Scandinavian and European history, preparing them for further academic pursuits or careers in sectors such as diplomacy, cultural management, education, or international organizations. The joint nature of this programme fosters an interdisciplinary approach, ensuring students receive not only historical knowledge but also the cultural and linguistic insights necessary to operate effectively in international contexts.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Language modules are mandatory in each year. You will nominate your chosen language as Danish, Norwegian or Swedish. No prior knowledge of the language is required. You will select between Scandinavian cultural studies modules in literature and history as well as language-based modules such as linguistics. Half your modules will be in Scandinavian Studies and half will be on the history of the Nordic and Baltic region.

You will spend your third year studying at a university in the country where your chosen language is spoken.

You will also take modules from SELCS. This will allow you to study subjects like literature, film, art and culture from a wider perspective. You will be exposed to broad cultural movements, issues and approaches and be able to draw on the full range of specialisms within the school.

A levels

Grades

ABB

Subjects

History and foreign language preferred.

GCSEs

English Language at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

The financing of the Scandinavian Studies and History program at University College London is primarily composed of several key components aimed at supporting both domestic and international students. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the student’s residency status. For UK home students, fees are typically aligned with the rates established by the UK government for undergraduate programs, which are subject to annual adjustments. For international students, tuition fees are generally higher and are set independently by the university to reflect the additional costs associated with international enrollment.

Funding options available to students include government-sponsored loans and grants, scholarships, and bursaries offered either through university channels or external organizations. UK students may be eligible for student loans provided by the Student Loan Company, covering tuition fees and living expenses, which are repaid after graduation based on income levels. International students are often required to demonstrate their financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs, sometimes through sponsorship letters or bank statements, as part of the visa application process.

University College London also offers a range of scholarships specifically aimed at Scandinavian Studies and History students. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or both. Some scholarships may also be targeted at specific nationality groups or demographics to promote diversity. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundations, and cultural exchange programs, which may support research projects, internships, or language study periods abroad.

Part-time work opportunities are available on campus and around London, allowing students to supplement their income during their studies. The university provides resources and guidance on finding suitable part-time employment, which can help students manage their financial obligations more effectively. Furthermore, some students may engage in research or teaching assistantships, which offer stipends and valuable professional experience related to their academic interests.

Finally, it is important to note that the overall cost of studying the Scandinavian Studies and History program includes not only tuition fees but also living expenses, books and supplies, insurance, and personal expenses. Students are advised to prepare a comprehensive budget and explore all available financial support mechanisms early in their studies to ensure they can manage these costs effectively. The university’s financial aid office provides detailed guidance and up-to-date information about all available funding options, application procedures, and deadlines to assist students throughout their academic journey.

The MA Scandinavian Studies and History program at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of the history, culture, languages, and societies of Scandinavia. This interdisciplinary course combines linguistic proficiency with historical analysis, allowing students to develop a comprehensive understanding of the Scandinavian region from early history to modern times. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, research skills, and cultural awareness through a variety of modules that cover topics such as Scandinavian literature, medieval history, modern political developments, and cultural integration across the Nordic countries. Students have the opportunity to study Scandinavian languages, including Danish, Swedish, and Norwegian, alongside thematic courses that examine regional identities, migration patterns, and socio-economic transformations.

The curriculum emphasizes both primary and secondary sources, encouraging students to engage actively with historical documents, literary texts, and contemporary cultural outputs. There is a strong emphasis on comparative analysis, enabling students to contextualize Scandinavian history within broader European and global frameworks. The program benefits from UCL's extensive resources, including access to specialized archives, libraries, and research centers dedicated to Scandinavian studies. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to undertake independent research projects, participate in seminars, and collaborate with leading academics in the field.

The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, cultural institutions, government, international organizations, or further research. It also offers transferable skills such as critical analysis, language proficiency, and research methodology suitable for various professional contexts. The university provides a vibrant academic community, with opportunities for networking and involvement in seminars, conferences, and cultural events related to Scandinavian history and culture. Overall, the MA Scandinavian Studies and History at UCL is ideal for students passionate about understanding the historical developments, cultural diversity, and contemporary issues facing the Scandinavian countries today.