Department of Scandinavian StudiesAcademics

About the Department

Modernizing the Nordic Narrative

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. Gustavus'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.

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Teaching Swedish to the Most Students in the Country

As a Scandinavian Studies student at Gustavus, 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, the Gustavus Adolphus campus gives you a fun and supportive place to study with proximity to big-city events and cultural activities. 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 Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters Wilderness Area. Founded by Swedish immigrants, the College has a contemporary view of its Scandinavian heritage.

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Discover your path:
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 and Minors


Related Programs


Opportunities in Scandinavian Studies

Where Culture, Connections, and Learning Converge

Gustavus'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.

Explore Opportunities in Scandinavian Studies

  • 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 Gustavus 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.

Gusties
will
Shine

In the world of Scandinavian Studies at Gustavus you find a global, forward-thinking, and multidisciplinary community of students and faculty who forge cross-cultural bonds. Meet members of this vibrant group that embraces diverse perspectives and collaborative learning.

Meet our Faculty

Professor Roland Thorstensson

Professor Roland Thorstensson

Scandinavian Studies Department Faculty

“The Professor Emeritus and former Director Of Scandinavian Studies on one of his legacies: The Sweden Today Program.” Fifteen or so years ago, College president James Peterson asked Thorstensson to design a custom program to Sweden for Gustavus students. Thorstensson hesitated—among other reasons, he was close to retirement. Then he thought, “Why not try to […]

Read more about Professor Roland Thorstensson

Keep in Touch with the Department of Scandinavian Studies

When you join the Scandinavian Studies Department at Gustavus Adolphus you become part of a close-knit and supportive group of learners encouraging each other's academic and personal growth. This community extends past graduation to a well-connected alumni network that actively supports current students and maintains strong ties to each other and the Department.

Contact Scandinavian Studies

Email: sca-dept@gustavus.edu
Phone: 507-933-7391

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

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