Scandinavian Studies and Classics MA
Central Area Campus, United Kingdom
Scandinavian Studies and Classics MA (Hons)
University of Edinburgh
Languages, Literatures and Classics
Program Overview: Scandinavian Studies and Classics MA (Hons)
The Scandinavian Studies and Classics MA (Hons) at the University of Edinburgh is a distinctive four-year joint honours degree that combines advanced study of a Scandinavian language with an exploration of the ancient Greek and Roman world. You will develop spoken and written fluency in Danish, Norwegian, or Swedish while examining Scandinavian culture, history, and politics alongside the scholarship and literature of classical civilisation.
Edinburgh is the only university in Scotland, and one of only two in the UK, to offer undergraduate honours programmes in Scandinavian Studies. The programme is uniquely structured to include a full academic year abroad in Year 3, spent in Denmark, Norway, or Sweden, giving you immersive language experience and cross-cultural skills that set this degree apart.
You will be based in the University's Central Area on the edge of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, studying within the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures and the School of History, Classics and Archaeology. The programme culminates in a dissertation or long essay in your final year, allowing you to pursue an independent research topic of your choosing across either discipline.
Key Program Highlights
- One of only two UK universities offering undergraduate Scandinavian Studies honours programmes
- Mandatory Year Abroad in Denmark, Norway, or Sweden with full academic and wellbeing support
- Choose from Latin, Ancient Greek, or a non-language pathway through Classics
- Home of the Northern Scholars Scheme fostering Nordic-Scottish academic cooperation
Curriculum and Modules
The programme is structured across four years, progressing from foundational language and introductory courses to specialist honours-level study and independent research. No prior knowledge of a Scandinavian language is required, as courses begin at beginner level. In Years 3 and 4, you focus on advanced language skills, specialist topics, and a capstone dissertation.
Scandinavian Language Acquisition (Danish, Norwegian, or Swedish)
Ongoing across Years 1-4Progressive language training from beginner to advanced level in your chosen Scandinavian language, covering spoken and written communication, grammar, and contemporary usage.
Introduction to Scandinavian Studies
20 creditsAn overview of key trends in the history, society, culture, and politics of the Scandinavian and wider Nordic world from earliest times to the present day.
Classics Core: Ancient World Foundations
40 creditsExploration of the Graeco-Roman world through philological, historical, and archaeological inquiry. You choose a Latin, Ancient Greek, or non-language pathway through the Classics curriculum.
Nordic Languages: Diversity and Historical Developments
20 creditsExamines the similarities and differences between Danish, Swedish, and Norwegian, including their historical development and mutual intelligibility.
Year Abroad (Year 3)
120 creditsA minimum of 30 weeks spent studying or working in Denmark, Norway, or Sweden. You complete assessed work for both Scandinavian Studies and Classics during this immersive year.
Honours Dissertation or Long Essay
40 creditsAn independent research project completed in Year 4 that draws on the knowledge and skills developed across all four years of the programme, focusing on a topic of your choice.
Elective and Optional Courses
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the Scandinavian Studies and Classics MA (Hons) are assessed on their academic qualifications, personal statement, and suitability for language and humanities study. No prior knowledge of a Scandinavian language or Latin/Greek is required. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- A LevelsABB (no specific subject requirements)
- IB Diploma34 points with 655 at Higher Level
- SQA HighersABBB by end of S5 or AABB/ABBBB by end of S6; BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6
- GCSE / National 5English at grade C or 4
- Prior Language KnowledgeNo Scandinavian language, Latin, or Greek required; beginner courses are available
English Language Requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current score requirements
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for current score requirements
- Cambridge EnglishContact Uni4Edu for current score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for both domestic and international students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for scholarships relevant to this programme.
Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarship
GBP 5,000 per year for the duration of the programmeAwarded to international fee-status students accepted for full-time undergraduate study. The award is paid directly to students as a contribution to living costs and is renewable subject to satisfactory academic progress.
School of History, Classics and Archaeology Undergraduate Scholarship
Scholarships offered specifically to overseas students beginning their studies within the School of History, Classics and Archaeology. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility and application details.
Carnegie Trust Undergraduate Tuition Fee Grants
Varies (partial tuition coverage)Available to eligible Scottish-domiciled students attending recognised Scottish higher education institutions. Provides financial support toward tuition fees for qualifying undergraduate programmes.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Scandinavian Studies and Classics MA (Hons) develop a unique combination of advanced language fluency, cross-cultural competence, analytical thinking, and research skills. These transferable skills open doors to careers in international organisations, cultural institutions, education, media, and the public sector, particularly in roles requiring Nordic language expertise or classical knowledge.
Potential Career Paths
Sectors and Employers Hiring Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Edinburgh is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world and is a member of the Russell Group, the League of European Research Universities, and Universitas 21. Its School of History, Classics and Archaeology and School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures both contribute to Edinburgh's strong standing in the Arts and Humanities globally.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #10 |
| English Language and Literature | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 10 |
| Linguistics | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 10 |
| Research Power (all subjects) | Research Excellence Framework (REF) | #4 in the UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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