Norse and Viking Studies (MA) – (M.A.)

Course Content

This course has four complementary strands - language, literature, research methodology and cultural studies.

You will receive thorough instruction in Old Norse (at either beginners or advanced level) with the option to take other medieval languages.

The course also encourages you to study the broader comparative framework of Old Norse literature and culture.

Currently, the course is broken down into core language modules (at least 15 credits each semester) and a research methodology and tools compulsory module, which will give you the necessary linguistic and research skills required for both this course and further postgraduate research.

You will also be able to study optional modules in Old Norse-Icelandic language and literature (either in the original language or translation), runology, onomastics, history and geography, name studies, cultural and religious studies, and medievalism.

We encourage an interdisciplinary approach to Norse and Viking Studies, and you will be able to participate in joint events and field trips with the School of History and the Department of Archaeology.

Students without prior knowledge of sources for the study of the Viking Age may take an introductory module (including a field trip) at the beginning of the programme.

Please note that all module details are subject to change.

Full details about the content of the MA in Norse and Viking Studies is available on the School of English Studies website.

Course Structure
This course can be taken over 1 year, full-time (September to September) or part-time over 2 to 3 years.

You will study 120-credits´ worth of taught modules, as well as completing a 60-credit dissertation. As well as building on the taught areas of the course, the dissertation will give you the opportunity to focus your independent research in the fields of Norse or Viking Studies as best reflects your interests.

The course is mainly taught through seminars and lectures in Norse and Viking Studies, given by scholars who are renowned in this field. Some modules are based on project work and field trips.

You will also be invited to attend other lectures organised by the Institute for Medieval Research and the School of English Studies.

The core and optional modules are assessed by coursework (normally 3,000 words for a 15-credit module and 6,000 words for a 30-credit module).

Language modules are assessed through a mixture of examinations and essays (normally 4,000 words of coursework and two hours of examination for 30 credits).

Your dissertation will be between 12,000-15,000 words.