Scandinavian Studies

This degree provides the opportunity to specialise in the Danish, Norwegian or Swedish language, and to develop an in-depth appreciation of Scandinavian culture. You will have access to state-of-the-art language teaching facilities and the largest and oldest Scandinavian library in the UK, and will spend a year in a Scandinavian country.

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 chosen is required. The rest of your degree will be made up of other compulsory modules featuring cultural studies and linguistics, plus optional modules chosen according to your interests.

You will spend your third year 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

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

IB Diploma

Points

34

Subjects

A score of 16 points in three higher level subjects, preferably including a foreign language, with no score lower than 5.

The financing options for the Scandinavian Studies program at University College London are designed to support students through diverse funding sources, including government grants, scholarships, bursaries, and student loans. Prospective students are encouraged to explore funding opportunities early in their application process to ensure adequate financial planning. The UK government offers student loans, which can cover tuition fees and contribute towards living costs, available to both home and EU students, depending on residency criteria and specific regulations. Additionally, the university provides a range of scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as nationality or field of study. These awards often do not require repayment and can significantly offset tuition costs.

There are also external funding opportunities, including Danish and Scandinavian government scholarships and cultural grants, which may be accessible to students pursuing Scandinavian Studies, especially those with a connection to Scandinavian countries or aiming to foster international academic exchange. The university's financial aid office offers guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines for these scholarships and bursaries. Moreover, part-time work opportunities are available on campus, enabling students to supplement their income while managing their studies. UCL also collaborates with various organizations to facilitate internships, training grants, and sponsorship programs relevant to Scandinavian cultural and academic engagement.

Students are advised to check the official UCL website regularly for updates on new funding opportunities and detailed information about application processes, eligibility criteria, and deadlines. International students are particularly encouraged to seek external scholarships and sponsorships from Scandinavian cultural institutes and governmental programs, which often promote academic exchange in language, literature, and regional studies. It is crucial to prepare a strong application, including academic references and personal statements, to maximize the chances of securing financial aid. Overall, financing for the Scandinavian Studies program at UCL is supported through a comprehensive mix of institutional and external funding sources, ensuring that students can focus on their academic pursuits with manageable financial resources.

Scandinavian Studies at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the languages, cultures, histories, and societies of the Scandinavian region, including countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Iceland. This programme is designed for students who wish to develop advanced linguistic skills in at least one Scandinavian language, along with a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and historical contexts that shape the Scandinavian countries. The course curriculum typically combines language acquisition with modules on Scandinavian literature, film, art, politics, and social issues, providing a multidisciplinary approach to the study of this region.

Students enrolled in the programme are encouraged to engage in cultural immersion and may have opportunities for study abroad placements within Scandinavia, promoting linguistic proficiency and intercultural competence. The programme aims to equip students with analytical skills and knowledge applicable in various fields such as international relations, cultural consultancy, translation, and academia.

The academic staff involved in Scandinavian Studies at UCL are experts in their fields, offering research-led teaching and supervision. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, independent research, and written and oral communication skills. Graduates from the programme are well-prepared for careers that require language expertise and cultural understanding, or for further postgraduate study in Scandinavian or related disciplines.

Throughout the course, students will also have access to UCL's extensive resources, including libraries, language labs, and cultural events, which enrich the learning experience. The programme typically spans one year for a taught MA, or three years for an undergraduate degree, and may include dissertation projects or independent studies focused on specific aspects of Scandinavian studies. Overall, the programme at UCL provides a comprehensive, rigorous education in Scandinavian languages and cultures, fostering both academic and practical competencies for student career development.