Students who major in Scandinavian language and literature may be required or encouraged to spend some time living, working, and studying abroad. Most programs coordinate semester abroad or work internships. In most cases, you can participate in these after you have completed at least two years of language study.

Colleges that do not have complete programs in Scandinavian language and literature may offer elective courses as part of a major in interdisciplinary studies or liberal arts.

Some programs only focus on select Scandinavian countries. Often these programs are located in an area that was settled historically by a group of Scandinavian immigrants. For example, Finnish might be offered in a program located in an area where a large group of Finnish descendants live.

Some programs offer courses in Old Norse or Icelandic language. However, Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish are most commonly offered.

Very few people who receive a bachelor's degree in Scandinavian language and literature ever get a job directly related to the field. Even so, this program provides a solid background for many careers that require a four-year degree. Some common career routes include journalism and teaching.