MA (Hons) Scandinavian Studies and English Language in Edinburgh United Kingdom | The University of Edinburgh

The Scandinavian nations' languages and linguistic traditions have exerted significant influence far beyond their borders for centuries.

This adaptable joint degree program allows you to study Danish, Norwegian, or Swedish while examining the historical evolution of the English language.

By blending language learning with cultural studies, you'll develop into an effective communicator, creative problem-solver, and culturally aware individual open to diverse perspectives.

Many of our students begin with no prior knowledge of Scandinavian languages, yet graduate with a unique combination of broad cultural understanding and specialized skills highly sought after by global employers.
Interest in Scandinavian languages and cultures continues to grow. The region's television productions, films, and literature receive international recognition, while the Nordic Model socioeconomic approach attracts worldwide academic interest.

Our program helps you achieve advanced proficiency in modern Danish, Norwegian, or Swedish while investigating both historical and contemporary Scandinavian culture.

No prior Scandinavian language knowledge is required. By your third year, you'll be prepared for a study abroad experience in Denmark, Norway, or Sweden.

While focusing primarily on one Scandinavian language throughout your four-year study, you'll also gain familiarity with the other two we offer. In your second year, you can explore the relationships between Danish, Swedish, and Norwegian.
English boasts a documented history spanning over a millennium, with its transformations evident in materials ranging from medieval manuscripts to digital communications and spoken recordings.

Your coursework will enhance your understanding of:

fundamental linguistic theories
language acquisition processes
geographical and social language variations, especially within English
communication methodologies
The program also offers optional studies in Scots language, which possesses its own distinct linguistic and literary heritage.

English Language courses particularly relevant to Scandinavian Studies students include:

phonetics across global languages
world language diversity