Program Overview

Introduction to Language and Culture in Northern Scandinavia

This course offers an introduction to language and culture in Northern Scandinavia. Throughout four sub-courses, students will encounter literary works about and from the region and learn about the language situation both past and present. Students will read and discuss a contemporary work of fiction in its entirety and become acquainted with Icelandic sagas, Sami and Tornedalian authorship.

In addition to Nordic languages, an overview of minority languages in the area is provided, both in terms of present-day circumstances and how the language situation has evolved over time. The course highlights the multilingual landscapes of today and relates them to an earlier multilingualism in the region.

Overall, this course provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the unique linguistic and cultural landscape of Northern Scandinavia. Through readings, discussions, and research, students will develop a nuanced understanding of language and culture in the region, and the complex interplay between the two.

Course Details

• Type: Course, first cycle
• Study pace: 25%
• Study location: Varied
• Type of studies: Distance only (no required meetings)

Course Outline

• The teaching is completely online.
• Access to a computer is required to complete the tasks included in the course.
• For information on technical requirements for computer equipment and network connection, see the course's technical requirements.

Eligibility

• General entry requirements
• Selection: Results-National university aptitude test-Academic credits

Application and Tuition Fees

• As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
• Application fee: SEK 900
• Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 12,075
• Total fee: SEK 12,075

Course Schedule

• Starts: 1 September 2025
• Ends: 18 January 2026
• Number of credits: 7.5 credits
• Type of studies: Web-based (online)
• Mandatory meetings: No mandatory meetings
• Other meetings: None
• Study pace: 25%
• Teaching hours: Mixed
• Study location: Varied
• Language: English
• Application code: UMU-18218

About Umeå University

Umeå University is a vibrant academic community where high-quality education meets groundbreaking research in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. The university is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being. Umeå University is ranked #1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction.

Course Provider

The course is given by the Language Studies department.

Additional Information

• A step-by-step guide to apply for studies at Umeå University is available.
• Essential information for international students is provided in the International Student Guide.
• A study counsellor can help with many study-related questions.