The languages, history, politics and culture of the Scandinavian countries have had a considerable impact beyond the Nordic region. You will explore Scandinavian culture, past and present, alongside the study of the Scandinavian languages. The University has an excellent reputation for its research in this area. Regular research seminars and cultural events provide you with opportunities to find out more about the latest developments in Scandinavian culture and research. Whichever of the three main languages – Danish, Norwegian or Swedish – you choose to specialise in, you will also gain a passive knowledge of the other two during the course of your programme. You do not need a previous knowledge of any of the languages as courses are available for beginners. The relatively small class sizes provide an informal and supportive learning environment. The discipline of history involves study of the human past adopting a critical approach to evidence relevant to that enquiry. Work in history takes the form of interaction with the evidence in primary form and through sceptical reading of a wide body of historical writing. The Edinburgh experience is distinctive for the range of historical themes, chronological periods and geographical areas which can be studies using a variety of different intellectual approaches to the past.