Scandinavian Studies (Master's Programme)

Scandinavian Studies at Uppsala University offers a comprehensive master’s program designed to deepen students’ understanding of the languages, cultures, histories, and contemporary issues of the Scandinavian region. This program provides an interdisciplinary approach, combining linguistic analysis, cultural studies, history, literature, and social sciences to offer students a thorough perspective on the Nordic countries, including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. Throughout the program, students will engage in advanced language training in one or more Scandinavian languages, develop critical skills for analyzing regional texts and cultural expressions, and explore the historical developments that have shaped Scandinavian societies. The curriculum is carefully structured to balance theoretical knowledge with practical application, including opportunities for project work, independent research, and possibly internships or exchanges with partner institutions in Scandinavia. Students will learn to interpret and analyze the regional literature, media, and cultural phenomena using contemporary research methods. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, cultural analysis, media, public sector roles, international organizations, and other fields where expertise in Scandinavian languages and cultures is essential. Uppsala University's long-standing tradition of excellence in humanities studies ensures that students receive high-quality teaching from leading scholars in the field. The program’s diverse community of students from around the world creates an international learning environment, fostering cultural exchange and networking opportunities. Graduates of the Scandinavian Studies Master’s Programme will be equipped with advanced linguistic competence, critical cultural insights, and analytical skills aimed at understanding and engaging with the Scandinavian region both academically and professionally.

Scandinavian Studies at Uppsala University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to deepen students' understanding of the Scandinavian region's history, culture, language, and society. The program provides a rich exploration of Scandinavia's unique cultural heritage, political development, and societal structures, with courses covering topics such as Scandinavian literature, history, linguistics, and contemporary societal issues. Students have the opportunity to learn the Scandinavian languages—Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish—either as part of their studies or through dedicated language courses, enabling proficient communication and a nuanced understanding of regional texts and media. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, fostering critical analysis and intercultural understanding. Throughout the program, students engage with a variety of methods, including historical analysis, literary critique, linguistic research, and cultural studies, preparing them for careers in academia, cultural management, international relations, journalism, or further studies. The program encourages active participation in projects, seminars, and excursions that promote experiential learning and deepen engagement with Scandinavian societies. Students are also supported to develop their own research interests, culminating in a thesis that reflects their scholarly focus. Uppsala University's tradition of academic excellence and its strategic location within Scandinavia provide an enriching environment for students to immerse themselves in the study of this dynamic and diverse region. The program aims to nurture analytical skills, cultural competence, and language proficiency, equipping graduates with the tools necessary for diverse professional pathways and further academic pursuits in Scandinavian Studies or related fields.

The Bachelor's programme in Scandinavian Studies at Uppsala University requires students to complete a total of 180 credits over three years of full-time study. The programme is structured around core courses, language skills development, and specialized modules that foster an in-depth understanding of Scandinavian languages, literature, culture, history, and society. Students begin by establishing a solid foundation in Scandinavian linguistics and immerse themselves in the study of one or more Scandinavian languages, which typically include Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish. Language proficiency is a key component of the programme, and students are expected to achieve a high level of oral and written skills in their chosen language(s).

In addition to language courses, students take courses in Scandinavian literature, including classical and modern texts, as well as courses in history and cultural studies that contextualize the region's societal developments. The curriculum emphasizes intercultural perspectives and critical analysis, encouraging students to explore contemporary issues affecting Scandinavian countries. Throughout the programme, students develop research skills through seminars, essays, and projects, culminating in a degree project or thesis that demonstrates their ability to conduct independent academic work on a relevant topic within Scandinavian Studies.

To graduate, students must earn credits from compulsory courses in Scandinavian languages, literature, history, and culture, along with elective courses that allow for specialization. Language courses are often taught in the target language, promoting immersive learning experiences. The programme also fosters skills in academic writing, oral presentation, and intercultural communication. Final exams and continuous assessment determine student progress, and participation in seminars, group projects, and language practice sessions are integral to the curriculum. International exchanges and internships may be available, providing students with practical experience and cultural insights. Overall, the programme prepares graduates for careers in education, research, cultural institutions, media, and other fields that value linguistic and cultural expertise related to Scandinavia.

The financing of the Scandinavian Studies program at Uppsala University is primarily structured through a combination of Swedish national funding, student tuition fees (for international students), and supplementary financial support options. The program is primarily funded by the Swedish government via the Swedish Council for Higher Education (UHR), which allocates funds based on national educational policies and the number of enrolled students. For Swedish and EU/EEA students, the program is typically funded through regular state financial support, meaning that tuition fees are not charged and students access funding through government student aid schemes, such as CSN (Centrala Studienamndern). CSN provides financial aid and loans to Swedish residents and EU/EEA students who meet specific eligibility criteria, covering living costs and study expenses for the duration of the program.

International students from outside the EU/EEA are required to pay tuition fees, which differ depending on the program's annual fee schedule set by the university. These fees are intended to cover the operational costs of delivering the program, including faculty salaries, library resources, and administrative expenses. Uppsala University also offers scholarship opportunities aimed at international students, such as university-specific scholarships, government-funded scholarships, and external funding options, which can provide partial or full financial support to eligible students.

In addition to government and tuition-based funding, the program may benefit from Research Council grants, university endowments, and private donations aimed at supporting Scandinavian cultural and linguistic studies. The university periodically updates its funding and scholarship offerings, and students are encouraged to consult the official Uppsala University financial aid webpage for the most current information. Overall, the financing system for this program seeks to ensure accessibility for Swedish students through government support while encouraging international diversity through scholarships and fee waivers. This multifaceted funding approach helps maintain the high quality and sustainability of the Scandinavian Studies program, enabling students to focus on their academic goals without undue financial hardship.

Scandinavian Studies at Uppsala University offers a comprehensive academic program designed to deepen students' understanding of the languages, cultures, societies, and history of Scandinavian countries, including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands. The program provides students with advanced language skills in Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish, enabling proficient communication and comprehension in both academic and professional contexts. In addition to language acquisition, students explore the rich cultural heritage, literature, and modern societal developments of the region through interdisciplinary coursework that includes studies in history, art, media, and politics. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, historical perspectives, and cultural competence, preparing graduates for careers in international relations, journalism, education, cultural management, translation, and further academic research.

The program typically includes courses on Scandinavian literature, linguistics, cultural history, and contemporary society, fostering a nuanced understanding of regional identities and transnational influences. Students often have opportunities for study abroad and internship programs, enhancing practical experience and intercultural competence. The program is suitable for students interested in Scandinavian languages and culture, as well as those aiming for careers requiring regional expertise. Uppsala University’s Scandinavian Studies program is renowned for its academic rigor, experienced faculty, and vibrant academic community. The program aims to cultivate critical thinking, research skills, and intercultural awareness, positioning students well for diverse professional paths or further postgraduate studies. Graduates are equipped with a solid foundation in Scandinavian languages and cultures, enabling them to contribute to fields such as diplomacy, international organizations, cultural diplomacy, academia, and media.