Venues

Central Campus

Content

The languages, history, politics and culture of the Scandinavian countries have long had a considerable impact beyond the Nordic region.

Studying Scandinavian Studies and History helps us understand the contemporary world, and also sheds light on the past.

Year 1:
You will choose from intensive beginners language courses Danish 1, Norwegian 1 or Swedish 1. These courses also provide an introduction to the culture and literature of the country in question.

For History, you will take survey courses. These courses emphasise processes and patterns within broad chronological and geographical frameworks, and introduce you to fundamental historical skills.

Year 2:
You will continue with Danish Language 2, Norwegian Language 2 or Swedish Language 2, building on your linguistic knowledge from Year 1. As in Year 1, History courses are broad surveys designed to prepare you for more specialised study in Years 3 and 4. Extending your range geographically and chronologically, these courses currently cover various periods and themes in American, European, British, Scottish and global history.

Year 3:
You will spend Year 3 in either Denmark, Norway or Sweden. This is when you will really deepen your knowledge of your chosen Scandinavian language by speaking it daily and immersing yourself in Scandinavian culture.

Year 4:
You will take advanced language classes in commentary and summary writing, in translation between the Scandinavian languages and English, and in spoken Danish or Norwegian or Swedish. In addition to these core courses, you will also choose from a wide range of specialist, honours-level courses in both Scandinavian Studies and History.

You will also normally complete a dissertation or a long essay on a topic proposed by yourself in consultation with your supervisor.

Entry Requirements

2026 entry requirements

Standard entry:
4 Highers at ABBB (first sitting) or 4 or 5 Highers at AABB/ABBBB (two sittings) plus a language other than English at B and English at National 5.

Widening access entry:
4 Highers at ABBB (two sittings) plus a language other than English at B and English at National 5. Highers at BBB must be achieved in one sitting.