You learn the language through interactive classes that emphasize written and spoken communication. How useful is this study to your life and career? You will learn to interpret texts critically, communicate clearly, think creatively and acquire skills that allow you to engage in cultural settings different from your own. In the Norwegian Program, we link the reading of texts to critical inquiry in three main areas:

• Explorations of cultural and national identity in times of change. An understanding of Norway in the 21st century is central to this inquiry;
• Expressions of the human experience of conflict, displacement and social injustice;
• Questions of authority based on gender, class, regional identity, or ethnicity.

Though most of the courses in literature and film are taught in English, the understanding of Norwegian language and culture is cultivated in each individual student.

Comparative Contexts: 

Is it Norway and only Norway we explore? Not at all. Norwegian language, literature, and film are investigated within the context of the larger Scandinavian and global communities. Most of our majors choose to double major. This brings diversity to the community of learners and allows for much valuable exchanges of ideas. Combining the Norwegian major with a major in history, political science, English, global studies, or environmental studies is common.