PhD in German and Scandinavian Studies Admission 2024-25, Application Fees, Mock Tests

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Course Overviews

PhD in Scandinavian Studies is an interdisciplinary field that encompasses the languages, literatures, cultures, history, politics, and societies of the Nordic countries, which include Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands.

An MPhil or PhD in Scandinavian Studies would provide an opportunity for advanced study and research in this field, allowing students to develop expertise in one or more areas of Nordic culture and society. Some possible areas of focus could include:

Language: The Nordic languages, including Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, and Icelandic, are all related and share many features. Students could explore the history, structure, and usage of these languages, as well as their dialects and regional variations.

Literature: Nordic literature has a rich tradition, including the medieval sagas, modernist works by authors such as Knut Hamsun and Henrik Ibsen, and contemporary fiction by writers like Karl Ove Knausgård and Tove Ditlevsen. Students could investigate themes, styles, and influences in Nordic literature, as well as the reception and interpretation of Nordic works in other cultures.

Culture and society: The Nordic countries have distinctive cultural and societal features, including egalitarianism, social welfare systems, and a strong tradition of environmentalism. Students could analyze the history, politics, and social dynamics of these countries, as well as contemporary issues such as immigration, globalization, and the role of the Nordic model in a changing world.

Arts and media: Nordic film, music, and visual art have gained international recognition in recent years. Students could explore the aesthetics, themes, and techniques of Nordic artists and media producers, as well as the cultural contexts and reception of their works.

An MPhil or PhD in Scandinavian Studies would typically involve coursework, research, and the writing of a dissertation or thesis. Graduates could pursue careers in academia, cultural institutions, government, media, or other fields where expertise in Nordic culture and society is valued.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Highlights

Scandinavian Studies is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the history, culture, language, literature, and society of the Nordic countries. Pursuing an MPhil or PhD in Scandinavian Studies can provide a deep understanding of the region, its people, and its contributions to global culture.

Some potential highlights of a Scandinavian Studies MPhil or PhD program include:

A strong focus on language acquisition: Most Scandinavian Studies programs require proficiency in at least one of the Nordic languages (Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, Icelandic, or Finnish). As such, language study is often a core component of the program, with students expected to achieve a high level of fluency in their chosen language.

A broad interdisciplinary approach: Scandinavian Studies is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing on fields such as history, literature, linguistics, art history, anthropology, and sociology. As such, students may have the opportunity to take courses and conduct research across a range of disciplines.

Opportunities for fieldwork: Some programs may offer opportunities for students to conduct fieldwork in the Nordic countries, whether through internships, research trips, or study abroad programs. This can provide firsthand experience of the culture and society of the region, as well as valuable research material.

Research opportunities: Scandinavian Studies is a dynamic and evolving field, with many opportunities for original research. Students may choose to focus on a wide range of topics, from medieval Nordic literature to contemporary Scandinavian film and television.

Career opportunities: A degree in Scandinavian Studies can open up a range of career opportunities, including work in academia, research, government, and the private sector. The Nordic countries are also home to many international organizations, providing further opportunities for employment.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Entrance Exam:

The entrance exam requirements for MPhil/PhD in Scandinavian Studies vary depending on the university and program. However, most programs require applicants to have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as Scandinavian Studies, or a related discipline, along with a strong academic record. Some universities may also require a writing sample or language proficiency test, depending on the program's specific requirements.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Admission Requirements:

The admission requirements for an MPhil/PhD in Scandinavian Studies typically include a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, a strong academic record, and proof of language proficiency. Most universities require applicants to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or research proposal, and proof of language proficiency, if applicable.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Eligibility:

To be eligible for admission to an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies, applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or discipline, such as Scandinavian Studies, Nordic Studies, or a related area. Some programs may also require applicants to have prior knowledge or experience in a Nordic language, depending on the program's specific requirements.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Course Duration:

The duration of an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies varies depending on the university and program, but typically takes between 3-5 years to complete. MPhil programs typically take 1-2 years, while PhD programs take 3-5 years. However, some universities may offer part-time or flexible study options, which may affect the duration of the program.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Selection Criteria:

The selection criteria for an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies typically include academic record, language proficiency, research potential, and personal statement or research proposal. The selection process may also involve an interview or writing sample, depending on the program's specific requirements.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies How to Apply:

To apply for an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies, applicants must typically complete an online application through the university's website. Application requirements may vary depending on the program, but typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or research proposal, and proof of language proficiency, if applicable. Applicants should also be prepared to pay an application fee and provide any additional materials requested by the program.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Application Form:

The application form for an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies can typically be found on the university's website. Applicants will need to create an account and submit personal and academic information, along with any required materials such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or research proposal.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Application Process:

The application process for an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies typically involves completing an online application form and submitting required materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency. Applicants may also be required to submit a personal statement or research proposal, and may need to undergo an interview or writing sample depending on the program's specific requirements.

Study program: Start by researching universities or institutions that offer PhD programs in Scandinavian studies. Find a program that matches your research interests and career goals.

Verify Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for the doctoral program, including academic requirements, language proficiency (if applicable), and specific prerequisites.

Prepare application documents.

Transcript: Collect official transcripts from previous educational institutions.

Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your academic ability and research potential.

Statement of Purpose: Write a strong statement of purpose that outlines your research interests, academic background, and reasons for pursuing a PhD in Scandinavian Studies.

Writing Sample: Please provide a writing sample demonstrating your analytical and research skills, preferably related to Scandinavian studies.

Curriculum Vitae (CV): Create a detailed resume highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, publications (if any), and relevant skills.

Language Skills: If your program requires knowledge of a Scandinavian language (Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Icelandic, etc.), make sure you meet the language requirements and provide the required language test results (TOEFL, Please submit all the documents (IELTS etc.).

GRE Score (if required): Some programs may require a GRE score as part of your application. Review program requirements and schedule the GRE if needed.

Submit your application: Submit your application via the University's online portal or application system. Please pay attention to deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted correctly.

Interview (if applicable): Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process. Learn about the program, discuss your research interests, highlight your qualifications, and prepare for an interview.

Wait for admission decision: After submitting your application, wait for the admissions committee to review your documents. We will notify you of the admission status as soon as it is decided.

Acceptance and Registration: If accepted, follow the University's instructions to formally accept your offer and complete the registration process.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Course Fee:

The application fee for an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies varies depending on the university and program. Fees typically range from $50-$100 USD, although some universities may waive the fee for certain applicants.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Syllabus:

The syllabus for an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies varies depending on the university and program. However, typical courses may include language study, literature, history, culture, art, and contemporary issues in the Nordic region. Students may also be required to complete a research project or dissertation.

Introduction to Scandinavian Studies

Overview of the region: geography, demographics, political systems.

Historical background: Viking age, medieval period, modern history.

Cultural diversity: indigenous Sami culture, minority communities.

Scandinavian Languages

Study of Scandinavian languages: Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, Icelandic, Finnish.

Linguistic structure and phonetics.

Historical development and linguistic changes.

Scandinavian Literature

Literary traditions: sagas, folklore, modern literature.

Major authors and works: from the medieval era to contemporary literature.

Themes and motifs in Scandinavian literature.

Scandinavian History

Chronological survey of Scandinavian history.

Political developments: monarchies, democracies, welfare states.

Cultural and social history: religion, gender roles, education.

Scandinavian Culture

Visual arts: painting, sculpture, architecture.

Performing arts: theater, music, dance.

Media and popular culture: film, television, literature.

Scandinavian Society

Social structures and institutions.

Welfare state models and social policies.

Contemporary issues: immigration, globalization, environmental sustainability.

Research Methods in Scandinavian Studies

Qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Ethnographic approaches and cultural analysis.

Archival research and digital humanities tools.

Special Topics in Scandinavian Studies

Indigenous cultures and rights.

Nordic noir and crime fiction.

Scandinavian design and aesthetics.

Scandinavian diaspora communities.

Thesis Preparation

Research proposal development.

Literature review and theoretical frameworks.

Thesis writing and academic publishing.

Seminar Series

Guest lectures by scholars in Scandinavian Studies.

Student presentations and discussions.

Interdisciplinary perspectives on Scandinavian topics.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Salary and Jobs:

The salary and job prospects for graduates of an MPhil/PhD program in Scandinavian Studies vary depending on the individual's qualifications and career goals. Graduates may pursue careers in academia, research, government, or the private sector, with job titles such as professor, researcher, consultant, or cultural advisor. According to PayScale, the average salary for individuals with a PhD in Scandinavian Studies is $68,000 USD per year.

Academic Researcher/Professor: You could work in academia, conducting research in Scandinavian literature, culture, history, or language and teaching at universities.

Curator/Archivist: You might work in museums or cultural institutions, curating exhibits or managing archives related to Scandinavian history and culture.

Translator/Interpreter: Your expertise in Scandinavian languages could lead to opportunities in translation and interpretation for businesses, government agencies, or international organizations.

Cultural Consultant: You could advise companies or organizations on Scandinavian culture, helping them navigate cultural nuances in their operations or marketing strategies.

Publishing Professional: With a PhD in Scandinavian Studies, you might work in publishing, specializing in books or academic journals related to Scandinavian literature, history, or culture.

Government or NGO Work: You could work for government agencies or non-governmental organizations focusing on Scandinavian affairs, international relations, or cultural exchange programs.

Tourism Industry: Your knowledge of Scandinavian culture and history could be valuable in the tourism sector, developing cultural tours or working as a guide.

Media and Communications: You might work in media organizations, producing content related to Scandinavian culture, history, or current events.

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Career Opportunities:

An MPhil/PhD in Scandinavian Studies can lead to a range of career opportunities, including:

• Academic careers in universities and colleges
• Research positions in government or non-profit organizations
• Cultural and linguistic advisory positions in international businesses or organizations
• Journalism or media positions focused on the Nordic region
• Careers in international relations, diplomacy, or foreign service

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Top Colleges:

Some top colleges for an MPhil/PhD in Scandinavian Studies include:

• University of Copenhagen, Denmark
• University of Helsinki, Finland
• University of Oslo, Norway
• University of Iceland, Iceland
• Lund University, Sweden
• University of California, Berkeley, USA
• University of Cambridge, UK
• University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA
• University of Edinburgh, UK
• University of Michigan, USA

PhD in Scandinavian Studies Admission Procedure

• Application for the entrance exam 
• Result declaration
• Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
• Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
• Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
• Course work examination
• Result declaration of coursework
• Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
• Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
• A registration letter shall be issued
• Research work started by scholar
• 6 progress reports shall be submitted
• Soft copy thesis submit
• plagiarism report check by the university
• Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
• After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
• After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
• Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Documents Checklist For PhD in Scandinavian Studies

• Documents (10th onwards)
• Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
• Migration Certificate (Original)
• NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
• Affidavit (undertaking)
• Guide Willing
• Assignments
• Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
• Library No Dues
• Lab Letter
• Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
• No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
• Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
• C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
• Conference Certificate - 2
• Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
• summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
• Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD in Scandinavian Studies Program 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.