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Scandinavian Studies

We are the only public university in Minnesota offering a major in Scandinavian Studies, which allows students to combine Norwegian or Swedish language studies with an exploration of the broader Nordic cultural region, providing a deep understanding of Scandinavian heritage and history.


Careers in Scandinavian Studies

The Scandinavian Studies program prepares students for diverse careers in education, law, international trade, translation, civil service, non-profits, the arts, linguistics, literature, environmental sciences, conservation, diplomacy, and more, with opportunities in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.
  • Public Relations
  • Marketing Director
  • Strategic Communications Specialist
  • Social Media Manager
  • Publicist
  • Event Coordinator

Potential Salary

Median Salary $59,940

The median annual wage for Educational Instruction and Library Occupations in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Scandinavian Studies Degrees at MSU

Scandinavian Studies, Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Scandinavian Studies is an interdisciplinary program that combines acquisition of a Scandinavian language with study of the diversity and richness of the greater Nordic cultural region of Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. Students become familiar with the heritage of Scandinavia from the Vikings to the modern day and learn more about the role of the Nordic nations in communications technology, environmental awareness, social equality, and international peace initiatives in the contemporary world. 

Scandinavian Studies, Minor

A Scandinavian Studies minor can enhance a traditional major and serve to provide a global focus to students' education, whether in engineering or health sciences, international relations or international business, art or literature. It is recommended that students combine a Scandinavian Studies major or minor with studies in fields such as art, history, international business, international relations, World Languages & Cultures, political science, engineering or social work. 

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Scandinavian Studies Program Study Abroad Opportunities

We have exchange agreements with a number of institutions in Norway, Sweden and Finland. Students may study abroad for a semester or academic year. Summer opportunities in Sweden and Norway are also available. Credits earned at these institutions may count toward the Scandinavian Studies major or minor.

Related Programs

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Spanish

The Spanish program serves students who are seeking high proficiency in the Spanish language and cultural studies. The focus on real-world communication in our classes promotes a student-centered environment with opportunities to exchange ideas and open minds to different ways of interpreting events from a variety of cultural perspectives.

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French

The French program teaches students to not only to communicate correctly and effectively in French, but also to understand and appreciate the diverse cultural perspectives and practices of French-speaking populations.

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German

The German programs serve students who are seeking high proficiency in German language and cultural studies. Programs courses focus on real-world communication skills, and our instructors promote a student-centered, immersion-based learning environment that encourages the open exchange of ideas, instills awareness of cultural differences and encourages a deeper understanding of events, institutions and traditions.

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History

The History program fosters diverse communities and multicultural connections while equipping students with critical analysis, information literacy, and writing skills for careers in various fields such as education, law, museums, public service, and more.

Department of Scandinavian Studies

College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.

Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences