Graduate Resources

We offer both an MA and a PhD in Scandinavian Studies.  We hope you will consider applying to our program.

M.A. in Scandinavian Studies:

We offer an MA degree specializing in one of the following three fields:

(1) Literature,

(2) Philology,

(3) Area Studies

Ph.D. in Scandinavian Studies:

We offer at PhD degree specializing in one of the following three fields:

(1) Literature,

(2) Philology,

(3) Folklore.

Beginning MA and Ph.D. students should work out their program with the graduate advisor, who will assist them in their choice of a major professor.  The basic requirements for all students entering the program correspond to the requirements for the M.A. degree in Scandinavian Studies with concentration in literature, area studies, or philology, as appropriate.

The graduate advisor, in consultation with the department, will advise students applying to our Ph.D. program from outside as to the necessity of taking a qualifying examination. Students will be informed one way or another at the time of their admission. The qualifying exam is normally a one- to two-hour oral exam, and is normally administered during the second semester of the student's residence; it will test the student broadly on matters of Scandinavian literature and culture.

Students who wish to do Ph.D. work in the fields of Scandinavian linguistics or history should do so in the Departments of Linguistics and History, respectively, and take a Ph.D. minor in Scandinavian Studies. (See information below.)

In addition to the general requirements, there are special course requirements for degree candidates in each of the areas of specialization. Undergraduate work may count in fulfillment of these requirements (and the requirements can sometimes be adjusted to take into consideration the preparation and needs of individual students).

Applicants for admission to this program are expected to have preparation equivalent to an undergraduate major in Scandinavian Studies at UW-Madison and must either have taken three years of a Scandinavian language or must demonstrate (by examination) equivalent competence in one Scandinavian language (or Finnish). A GPA of 3.25 is required for admission; students with a GPA of 3.0 or above may be considered for admission on probation. Students should make regular appointments with the graduate student advisor for regular progress advice.

Currently the graduate student adviser is Susan Brantly, whose email is sbrantly@wisc.edu and can be found at 1366 Van Hise; 262-2220.

Materials to be sent to the Graduate school include:

Graduate School on-line application
a $56 application fee.

Also see the Graduate School home page for more information on applying or Admission Requirements and The Graduate School Check List sites. International students should check the International Applicant Financial Information site.

Materials to be sent to the Department include:

two copies of your official transcript
three letters of recommendation
GRE (North American Students Only)
TOEFL or MELAB (Non-Native English Students only)
TA/Fellowship Application

PhD Minor in Scandinavian Studies:

A prospective minor in the Scandinavian Studies Department must have a program approved in advance by the graduate adviser and is urged to discuss the entire doctoral program with this adviser at the earliest possible opportunity.

The following are departmental guidelines for a PhD minor, though ultimately everything must be approved by the graduate advisor:

1. A minimum of 12 credits in Scandinavian Studies on the graduate level (including at least one seminar).
2. A reading proficiency in one Scandinavian language (including Old or Modern Icelandic) or in Finnish.