Scandinavian Studies

Modernizing the Nordic Narrative

More About the Scandinavian Studies Department

Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland make up Scandinavia. They are a force in international peacekeeping, models of social welfare, and leaders in global industries, from design to technology. The Scandinavian Studies Department integrates students with this vibrant region's diverse cultures, histories, and roles in the global society including the relationship with the Global South, Europe, and North America. �鶹��Ƶ's program is one of the largest in the country. A diverse group of faculty from across the campus teach classes in the Department and closely mentor you, from learning Swedish to understanding public health and environmentalism in Scandinavia. In an increasingly globalized world, Scandinavian Studies is a lens for understanding world issues and how different societies approach them.

Majors, Minors, and Related Programs

As a Scandinavian Studies major or minor, you will gain proficiency with Swedish language courses. You will also take classes taught in English about Nordic history, literature, cinema, and theatre. Scandinavian Studies courses are interdisciplinary, focusing on pan-Nordic topics from Nordic mythology to politics and social change. Scandinavian Studies students must also study abroad for at least one semester, with five unique study away opportunities across Scandinavia. This robust program has prepared Scandinavian Studies graduates for successful careers in diplomacy, environmental advocacy, politics, international business and finance, public health and human services, education, and more.

Majors & Minors

Scandinavian Studies

Related Programs

Study in Scandinavia for Immersive Learning

Embark on a transformative educational journey by choosing to study abroad in Scandinavia.

At �鶹��Ƶ, we strongly encourage students to take advantage of the numerous opportunities and financial support available to explore learning in Scandinavian.
With three exchange partner institutions in Sweden and �鶹��Ƶ-led travel programs, you can immerse yourself in a unique learning environment, fostering personal and academic growth.
Studying in Scandinavia provides a chance to explore and appreciate the vibrant history, economic innovation, commitment to sustainability and social welfare, picturesque landscapes, and welcoming communities that define the Nordic region.

Learn more about study Away programs

Opportunities in Scandinavian Studies

Where Culture, Connections, and Learning Converge

�鶹��Ƶ's Scandinavian Studies students journey to the Arctic Circle, spend Thursday nights connecting over "fika" (coffee and treats) at the Swedish House, and meet award-winning artists and scholars who visit annually from the Nordic region. The faculty works closely with students and connects them with global opportunities, from internships in Scandinavia to summer archival research jobs.

Swedish Language Study and Support — The department offers Swedish language classes and tutor support for learning outside of class.

Out of Scandinavia Artist-in-Residence — This initiative cultivates deeper Nordic connections while spotlighting Scandinavian art and artists for the �鶹��Ƶ community.

Research — Dive into a multi-semester process, cultivating ideas and probing questions that will guide you toward your senior research project.

Study Away — Embrace a unique Nordic experience through studying in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, or Iceland.

Internships — Leverage a robust network to shape your own career path, gaining invaluable insights, skills, and connections.

Events — There are numerous events on campus and off campus to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture.

Student Organizations — Connect with student organizations that offer a blend of learning, camaraderie, fun, and cultural immersion.

Graduate School and Careers — You receive support from faculty and the Career Development Center to guide you through the graduate school or job search process.

Explore Opportunities in Scandinavian Studies

“It’s why I teach, because really it means I get to be a student for life.” ”

Ursula Lindqvist

Scandinavian Studies, Comparative Literature, Peace Studies, Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies, African Studies, Film and Media Studies, LALACS

Teaching Swedish to the Most Students in the U.S.

As a Scandinavian Studies student at �鶹��Ƶ, you are at one of the best places to study the Nordic region in the United States, including being the college that teaches the largest number of students Swedish each year in the country. Located in beautiful St. Peter, MN, you're minutes away from the medium-sized city of Mankato and an hour from the large metropolitan area of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Further north, you'll find majestic and the . Founded by Swedish immigrants, the College has a contemporary view of its Scandinavian heritage.

Contact Scandinavian Studies

Email:��sca-dept [at] gustavus.edu (sca-dept[at]gustavus[dot]edu)
Phone:��(507) 933-7391

Confer-Vickner, 231B
800 West College Avenue
Saint Peter, MN 56082

View Department Members

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