Scandinavian Studies and English Literature

Scandinavian studies and English literature brings together the literary and cultural traditions of the Nordic countries with the rich and expansive tradition of writing in English. Scandinavian studies encompasses the languages, literatures and cultures of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland, regions whose literary production has punched well above its demographic weight in world literature, from the sagas and Ibsen through to the contemporary wave of Scandinavian crime fiction, literary novels and children's literature. English literature, from Chaucer to the present day, provides a counterpart tradition of comparable richness.

At Edinburgh, which has a strong Scandinavian studies faculty reflecting Scotland's historical Norse connections, this four-year programme develops language skills in one or more Scandinavian languages alongside a thorough engagement with English literature across periods and forms. You will read texts from both traditions in their original languages where appropriate, study the cultural and social histories of the Nordic countries, examine the comparative dimensions of literary production across these related European traditions, and develop the close reading and critical writing skills that literary study at degree level demands. The typical entry tariff is 168 UCAS points.

Graduates pursue careers in publishing, translation, journalism, cultural organisations, education, the civil service, heritage and museum work, broadcasting and academic research. Knowledge of Scandinavian languages is particularly valued in translation and interpreting, in organisations with Nordic partnerships, and in the growing field of Scandinavian content production for streaming platforms. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in Scandinavian studies, English, translation, comparative literature or Nordic area studies, and some pursue doctoral research and academic careers.