Program Overview
The Ph.D. program in Scandinavian Studies offers a comprehensive education in literature, folklore, and philology, with a focus on Scandinavian culture and languages. Students develop expertise in theory, methodology, and cultural history, and can pursue specialized interests in areas such as mythology, sagas, and gender criticism. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, government, and the private sector, with a strong track record of successful placements.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Ph.D. degree is offered in the fields of literature, folklore, and philology. The basic requirements for all students entering the Ph.D. program correspond to the requirements for the M.A. degree in Scandinavian Studies with concentration in literature, area studies, or philology, as appropriate. Scandinavian Studies is the oldest such department in the Americas, tracing its roots to 1875. Department faculty have received numerous awards and other marks of recognition for their teaching and scholarship. The department offers the master of arts and the doctor of philosophy in Scandinavian Studies. A doctoral minor is also available. The program offers the possibility to attain a broad education in Scandinavian culture that has proven to be extremely useful in students' professional careers. Students will become well-versed in theory and methodology as well as in cultural history. The department possesses particular strengths in Scandinavian literature, Old Norse philology, and Nordic folklore. Within these broader categories, students may pursue interests in such topics as mythology, Sámi studies, saints' lives, modernism, sagas, gender criticism, immigration studies, national identity—to name only a few. Languages offered in the department include Danish, Finnish, Icelandic, Norwegian, Sámi, and Swedish. The department has an excellent record of placing its Ph.D. graduates in good positions in the field.
Outline:
The Ph.D. degree requires a minimum of 51 credits, including 26 credits of coursework and a dissertation. The curriculum includes core courses in Scandinavian literature, folklore, and philology, as well as elective courses in related fields. Students are also required to complete a doctoral minor or Graduate/Professional certificate of at least 9 credits in another field.
Assessment:
Students are evaluated on their coursework, exams, and dissertation. The dissertation must be a significant piece of original research that makes a contribution to the field of Scandinavian Studies.
Teaching:
The program is taught by a distinguished faculty of scholars and teachers. The department offers a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and workshops. Students also have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on research projects.
Careers:
Graduates of the Ph.D. program in Scandinavian Studies have gone on to successful careers in academia, government, and the private sector. Some graduates have become professors at major universities, while others have found work as researchers, librarians, and editors. Still others have found success in fields such as journalism, public policy, and business.
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Entry Requirements:
Students applying directly for the Ph.D. program should have an M.A. in a related field. New Ph.D. students will be expected to acquire competencies equivalent to the M.A. in Scandinavian Studies, and this will be assessed at the time of the preliminary exam. As in the case of admissions to the M.A. program, applicants should have a B.A. degree from an approved institution, a major in a field of humanities or social studies, and an outstanding record. In ordinary circumstances, graduate students entering the program with a B.A. will be required to take the M.A. before they can proceed to the Ph.D. Applicants are expected to have preparation equivalent to an undergraduate major in Scandinavian Studies at UW–Madison and should preferably 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 (on a 4.0 scale) is required for admission; students with a GPA below 3.25 but above 3.00 may be considered for admission on probation. A writing sample (in English or a Scandinavian language) is required.
