Scandinavian Studies and Philosophy, MA (Hons)

The languages, history, politics and culture of Denmark, Norway and Sweden have long had a considerable impact beyond the Nordic region. Philosophy has been at the core of Western intellectual life for at least 2,500 years. Studying Scandinavian Studies and Philosophy together helps you understand the contemporary world, as well as shedding light on the past.Scandinavian Studies On our programme, you have the opportunity to develop advanced spoken and written language skills in modern Danish, Norwegian or Swedish while exploring Scandinavian culture, past and present. You do not currently need to know a Scandinavian language, as courses are available for beginners. By Year 3, you will have the skills to spend the year abroad in Denmark, Norway or Sweden.While you will specialise in one Scandinavian language, you will also gain an understanding of the other two we teach to degree level. In Year 2, for example, you can choose to explore the similarities and differences between Danish, Swedish and Norwegian. Philosophy Studying philosophy allows you to think about some of the great philosophical questions in a clear, disciplined and systematic manner.Philosophy:

• introduces you to the thinking of some of the great philosophers of the past and present

• illuminates the connections between diverse areas of human experience

• makes you more aware of the assumptions that form the basis of your beliefs

Why Edinburgh Edinburgh is the only university in Scotland, and one of only two in the UK, to offer undergraduate honours programmes in Scandinavian Studies. Home of the Northern Scholars programme, the University has an excellent reputation for research and teaching in this area. We are unique in Scotland in offering students a full academic year abroad within the four-year honours programme, regardless of whether you spend the year studying or working. The four-year degree also gives you more choice and flexibility in what you study. In Years 1 and 2, you will choose option courses from a range of disciplines, then specialise as you move through your honours years.