DIS Stockholm FALL 2020 & SPRING 2021 Biomedicine Economics Future Studies Gender & Sexuality Studies Medical Practice & Policy
Neuroscience Psychology Public Health Terrorism & Security Vikings & Power
Hej, I’m Calvin
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Stockholm presents a world of opportunities for you to personalize your own experience abroad.�
At DIS, the motto is to live and learn through engaging with the locals as much as possible. With faculty who are leaders in your area of study, and all of Europe as your extended classroom, there are countless opportunities to practice engaged scholarship, network, and appreciate the nuanced perspectives of peers and locals. On Study Tours in both Sweden and the UK, my class visited several research labs. On one of the visits, we had the opportunity to discuss heparan sulfate and how it revolutionized the surgical field with the renowned proteoglycan expert Ulf Lindahl. This cross-cultural approach to learning honed my interest in clinical research and deepened my understanding of healthcare and how research and policies shape the health of citizens differently across nations. Stockholm is a thriving city and presents a world of opportunities for you to personalize your own experience abroad. As a foodie, I made it my mission to explore traditional and modern Scandinavian staples and found it enriched my cultural experience. Sports have also allowed me to become a part of the Swedish way of life, from exploring my neighborhood on jogs to joining a local ping pong club. For me, trading pingpong strategies for Swedish fun facts with the coach’s son Alwin, blossomed into a lasting friendship, and eventually led me to the Swedish National Championship in Eskilstuna! Now, at the end of my semester, I have learned more about what excites me and built relationships with my fellow students, locals, and faculty over shared goals that I will cherish long after my time here in Stockholm. I hope you will take advantage of this enriching experience abroad and make Stockholm your new home for a semester! Calvin, Swarthmore College DIS Stockholm Student, Spring 2019
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Table of Contents
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DISCLAIMER: The information in the DIS Catalog is provided solely as a convenience; no contractual liability is assumed. Because the manuscript was finalized in June 2019, this publication should not be assumed to be currently complete and fully accurate. Printed in the U.S., July 2019
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INTRODUCTION Our Mission Our Story & Your Story A Semester Overview
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DIS ACADEMICS How to Choose Your Courses Core Courses & Study Tours Overview Exploration Electives Labs & Research Swedish Language & Culture Courses
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CORE COURSES & STUDY TOURS Academic Programs Listed Alphabetically
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COURSES Course Descriptions Course List by Discipline
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LIVE, MEET, & ENGAGE Stockholm as Your Home Housing Options Meet the Locals Student to Student Advice
56 58 60 62
APPLICATION, TUITION, & AID Application Details Stay Connected Tuition & Aid Scholarships DIS Partner Institutions
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Our Mission By inspiring each student’s curiosity and love of learning, DIS fosters academic achievement, intercultural understanding, and development of life skills essential for engaged citizenship.
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Our Story We are a non-profit study abroad foundation with dedicated staff and faculty passionate about our mission and building an inclusive learning environment for you here in Scandinavia. It all began in 1959, and today we offer semester, academic year, and summer programs taught in English. Most of our students are upper-division undergraduate students coming from over 200 distinguished North American colleges and universities.
Your Story With DIS Make your semester uniquely yours. Enjoy the freedom of choice Whether you wish to focus on your major or fulfill elective requirements, build your semester by choosing a Core Course from 10 Academic Programs, and select your elective courses from across 48 disciplines. And you also have the choice of four diverse housing options to ensure the best fit for you.
You travel with your Core Course on two faculty-led Study Tours related to your Academic Program! Visit important sites and meet with local experts who add their perspectives to your knowledge of the field. You can also choose to enroll in Exploration Electives, which get you out of the classroom as much as possible and include additional travel.
Take a chance and meet the locals Living in a Homestay, signing up for a sports team, taking a Swedish Language and Culture course, or attending evening seminars are among the many ways to build your international network.
Engage in cultural learning and intellectually stimulating courses
Join an inclusive environment abroad
DIS courses challenge you to examine issues from various perspectives. You learn how concepts and issues are perceived, lived, and theorized in Europe; and reflect on the cultural norms and values that shape you.
DIS is committed to building an inclusive learning environment in a Scandinavian context. In doing this, we want to provide a place for discussion and debate of different views, while we uphold our unwavering commitment to diversity and respect for others.
Gain opportunities for experiential learning All of our courses take you out of the classroom on local Field Studies, exploring Stockholm through an academic lens. Our courses also offer you opportunities to participate in research and labs, simulate real-life scenarios through case studies, and more.
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Make Europe your classroom
Seek support when you need it Our Academic Support and Care Teams support your personal and academic well-being by working with you to develop strategies to make the most of your semester.
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A Semester Overview ARRIVAL DAY & WORKSHOP Välkommen till Stockholm! We greet you at the airport on the official start date of your program, and you are transported to your housing to settle in. The semester starts with the multi-day workshop that empowers you to make the most of your semester, preparing you to navigate cross-cultural experiences, get involved in local activities, and build community within your housing.
CL ASS BEGINS Courses run for the next four months. Every course includes Field Studies, getting you out of the classroom and into Stockholm. DIS Stockholm has cozy study nooks for you to take advantage of in between classes.
SEMESTER UNDERWAY Stockholm starts to feel like home and you now know the ins and outs of your DIS experience. You’re diving into your studying, group projects, research, lab work, and whatever else your semester has in store for you!
CORE COURSE WEEK Early in your semester, an entire week is dedicated to just your Core Course. The week is split between two days in Stockholm and a three-day short Study Tour in Sweden.
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WEEK-LONG STUDY TOUR Later in your semester, you travel again with your Core Course on a faculty-led Study Tour. Study Tours run across 10 countries in Europe – from Iceland, to France, to Greece! There are two travel weeks in the semester, and one is reserved for your week-long Study Tour. If not on tour, you can travel on own or stay and enjoy a week in Stockholm.
STUDY BREAK Use this half-week break to travel or catch up on your studies and enjoy Stockholm.
END OF SEMESTER Vi ses! The end of the semester wraps up with presentations, exhibits, and final exams. Head home, stay on for the following semester, or extend for a summer session!
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If you want to be challenged in a way that no class could ever challenge you, I highly recommend doing research here. Learning hands-on and working one-on-one with a lab mentor is a whole different experience compared to being in a class lecture.� Sarah, Wheaton College
DIS Academics 10
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How to Choose Your Courses STEP 1
Choose One Core Course The Core Course is a signature of the DIS academic experience. It includes two course-integrated Study Tours within Europe, where theories learned in the classroom come to life. You meet with experts in your field, visit sites of importance to your academic theme, and gain new cultural perspectives.
Core Course Week Early in your semester, an entire week is dedicated to just your Core Course. The week is split between two days in Stockholm and a three-day short Study Tour in Sweden.
Week-Long Study Tour Later in your semester, you travel again with your Core Course on a faculty-led Study Tour further afield in Europe for a week.
> See overview on the following pages and then jump to the full chapter on page 24.
STEP 2
Add Three to Four Elective Courses Personalize your semester by choosing your elective courses from over 48 disciplines. Find unique course opportunities like research and labs, as well as Exploration Electives and Swedish Language and Culture Courses. Fulfill your credit needs by taking courses within your academic focus, or explore other disciplines and try something new.
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I got to live in a foreign country, experience a new culture with new friends, and study Forensic Psychology, a course I couldn’t find anywhere else. DIS took us out of the classroom every week to learn hands-on from professionals in the field. That was not my typical college classroom experience.� Sabrina, Barnard College
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Core Courses & Study Tours Overview By Program Below is an overview of all the DIS Core Courses and their week-long Study Tours in Europe – some even have a choice of locations. Additionally, you will travel with your Core Course on a short Study Tour in the region. Jump to the pages noted below to learn more about the Core Courses that interest you!
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NEUROSCIENCE Affective Neuroscience: Emotion, Cognition, and Behavior + Lab Paris
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BIOMEDICINE Translational Medicine: the Power of Biomedical Research
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PSYCHOLOGY Forensic Psychology Edinburgh
London (Fall) or Paris (Spring)
Positive Psychology
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ECONOMICS
Athens Psychology of Food
Comparative Economics: Global Risk and European Responses
Paris
Athens
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FUTURE STUDIES
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Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights
Global Innovators: Navigating the Gig Economy Lisbon
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GENDER & SEXUALITY STUDIES
Geneva
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Gender, Equality, and Sexuality in Scandinavia
MEDICAL PRACTICE & POLICY Precision Medicine: Tailored Treatment in Clinical Practice Dublin
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TERRORISM & SECURITY European Security Dilemmas
Berlin
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PUBLIC HEALTH
Berlin
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VIKINGS & POWER World of the Vikings Iceland
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Exploration Electives Follow Your Curiosity with Exploration Electives Try one of our brand new 3-credit Exploration Electives, which give you the opportunity to learn first-hand beyond the walls of a classroom and includes travel to another European city – at no extra cost to you! Exploration Electives are designed to be very interactive and you can expect to spend much of your class time using Stockholm – and Europe – to explore the topics of the course. LEARN MORE We hope you found a course topic that excites you! Enrollment is competitive and requires an additional application when you register. DISabroad.org/sth-exploration
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Where will you travel to with your Exploration Elective?
Scandinavian Textiles and Fashion Workshop Visit global Scandinavian brands like of H&M, Filippa K, and Marimekko and explore how textiles and fashion impact the way we dress as well as the spaces around us. Prerequisites: None apply
Helsinki, Finland
Photo Documentary and Discovery Use your camera as a passport to open doors in Sweden and Germany, and as a tool to understand the cultures, people, and places you encounter. Prerequisites: None apply
Berlin, Germany
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Labs & Research Looking for lab or research experience while you study abroad? Gain invaluable international lab experience in either medical simulations, forensic psychology or cognitive neuroscience. You can also join an engaged community of scholars across various disciplines to collaborate on their research project as a Research Assistant. LEARN MORE Visit our website to explore the list of research and lab opportunities available during your semester. Enrollment is competitive, and requires an additional application when you register with DIS. Some prerequisites may apply. DISabroad.org/sth-labs-research
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Labs Test a hypothesis in a wet lab. Use ultra-sound, eye-tracking, galvanic skin response, or virtual reality surgeries to learn more about diseases and treatments. Or, improve ways to detect lying and deception. Our labs range from technique-based to research-based labs in which you will generate new knowledge of your field. Example Lab Opportunities: —— Medical Simulation Lab (3 Credits) —— Forensic Psychology Lab (3 Credits) —— Affective Neuroscience Lab (6 Credits)
Research Assistants Join a DIS faculty member’s ongoing research project and make your mark. As a Research Assistant, you collaborate closely with your mentor, providing a semester-long contribution to a longer-term project. By the end of the semester, you will grasp the complexities of the research process and gain insight into a specific Scandinavian-based research question. In some cases, short travel with your mentor to European research institutions and/or field sites may occur with all costs covered by DIS. Example Research Assistant Opportunities: —— Can Psychological Intervention Decrease Political Polarization? (3 Credits) —— Children, Clothing, and Swedish Societal Norms (3 Credits) —— Trafficking in Persons for the Purpose of Organ Removal (3 Credits) —— Biochemistry-Biophysics of Ion Channels (6 Credits)
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Highlights from Labs & Research Hear from past students that have participated in lab and research communities at DIS and imagine how you can take advantage of the opportunities available during your semester to gain hands-on experience!
STUDENT HIGHLIGHT
See Inside a Lab Sarah, Wheaton College Sarah did research with faculty member Reba Howard on the 6-credit Research Assistantship focused on BiochemistryBiophysics of Ion Channels, which looks at how drugs affect electrical signaling in the brain. The lab was located at Stockholm University’s Science for Life Laboratory (SciLifeLab).
Q: What is it like to work in a real lab setting? A: Working at SciLifeLab has been one of the best experiences while studying in Stockholm. It’s not just being in the lab that I’ve enjoyed but also getting to know the people in the lab and making friends outside of DIS. The lab is full of people that come from all over the world, so everyone speaks English. I’ve learned so much about other cultures over the course of the semester. Everyone at SciLifeLab is really friendly and enthusiastic about working with students. Q: What skills have you gained from this opportunity? A: Honestly there’s so much I’ve learned from this semester in the lab it’s hard to summarize. First of all, I’ve learned a lot about biophysics and developed my skills in biotechnology and multiple different lab methods. I’ve learned how to problem solve on my own and troubleshoot when something wasn’t working. I’ve gained a lot of interdisciplinary skills, as the lab has a lot of different types of researchers ranging from those that work in the wet lab to the more computational side of things, and you can’t do one without the other. I’ve also learned a lot of patience - if something works on the first try you either did it wrong or you are the luckiest person in the lab! 20
FA C U LT Y H I G H L I G H T
Faculty Teach What They Do Élodie Cauvet, Affective Neuroscience Core Course Faculty Élodie Cauvet, Ph.D. in cognitive neuroscience, teaches the Affective Neuroscience: Emotion, Cognition, and Behavior Core Course and its corequisite lab.
Q: How do you bring your professional background into the classroom?
STUDENT HIGHLIGHT
Why We Pursued Research at DIS Maya, Oberlin College & Emily, Kenyon College
A: I enrich theories and course topics through my colleagues’ latest experiments all around the world, and share concrete situations that I have faced. In my work, I’ve explored language development, dyslexia, and autism spectrum disorder. This experience allows me to guide students through the important ethical aspects related to studying human individuals in variety of contexts. Q: What are the major outcomes of the semester? A: Students gain first-hand insight into scientific methods by conducting an experimental paradigm from A to Z. They learn to conduct a literature review on a specific topic, formulate a research question, ad design an experiment to answer it, while taking into account ethical aspects. Importantly, they analyze their data, present, and discuss the results.
Emily and Maya worked on the 3-credit Research Assistantship, ‘Can Psychological Intervention Decrease Political Polarization?’ The project focused on developing methods to improve civil disagreement in public discourse.
Maya: I realized it would be a great opportunity to test my research skills in a new setting, outside of my home school, and find new ways to grow and improve as a researcher. I also secretly hoped that I would be able to take some piece of the project with me back to my home school to pursue further – which has turned out, hopefully, to be true! Emily: I was interested in challenging myself this semester. I thought that doing research would be a good way to structure my semester because the research would give me something to focus on outside of class. I also thought that the topic of political polarization was extremely relevant in the U.S. (I did not yet know how relevant it was in Sweden), so I figured it might be useful to conduct research that had the goal of decreasing it. Finally, this research project sounded like a unique opportunity that not many who go abroad have the chance to partake in. I believe my resumé has benefited greatly from my decision to pursue research at DIS!
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Swedish Language & Culture Courses Enhance your experience abroad, learn how to navigate cultural contexts, and gain the tools to better understand Sweden’s people, history, and traditions. Find out why 80% of all DIS students take a Swedish Language and Culture course! Apply Your Swedish to Real-World Contexts
Course Options
Dig into Swedish history, literature, film, and art, and discuss Sweden’s current burning issues. Enrich your study abroad experience by developing your critical and analytical understanding of Swedish culture, as well as your own culture. This makes way for interesting cross-cultural discussions with your Swedish Homestay, Visiting Host, or friends.
Whether you come knowing quite a bit of Swedish or none at all, we have a level to suit you:
Master your pronunciation of Swedish vowels Ä, Ö, and Å! Enjoy walking out of class to a nearby café for fika with friends, and celebrate your personal victory when you can order your coffee and kanelbulle in Swedish.
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—— Level I (Fall/Spring. 3 Credits) —— Level I-II (Fall/Spring. 6 Credits) —— Intermediate Level (Fall/Spring. 3 Credits)
Visit Skansen, the world’s first open-air museum, housing five centuries of Swedish history
Tour the Kungliga Slottet (The Royal Palace) on the quaint island of Gamla Stan
Broaden your perspectives through cultural exchange with students at a local gymnasium (high school)
A CafĂŠ Night introduces you to the Swedish concept of mysig (coziness)
Visit the Vasa Museum, where a sunken and magnificently restored 17th century warship awaits you
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Core Courses & Study Tours FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 24
Choose courses that spark your curiosity and give you a chance to learn from experts, artists, and scholars relevant to your discipline. Travel - twice - with your Core Course and experience the difference it makes when you, your faculty, and classmates explore the topics of your class in very different settings.� Helle Rytkønen, Ph.D., Academic Director
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Visit labs actively conducting biomedical research
Biomedicine Are you interested in learning how state-of-the-art biomedical research drives the creation of novel diagnostics and therapeutics for clinical use? Engage in a unique experience where you learn and witness how laboratory and clinical-based research leads to implementing innovative solutions to meet patient needs.
CORE COURSE Translational Medicine: The Power of Biomedical Research Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Translational Medicine aims to obtain a new understanding of disease mechanisms and strives to design and develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools. It covers the cyclical journey linking unmet patient needs, laboratory research, and clinical trials. The major emphasis of the course lies on the dynamic interplay between the world of in vitro and in vivo laboratory-based preclinical research and the world of clinical research. During the course, you interact with interdisciplinary teams of researchers who collaborate towards translating biomedical research discoveries into medical practice. Prerequisites: One year each of biology and chemistry at university level.
Week-Long Study Tour: London (Fall) or Paris (Spring) Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 26
Present your final projects at the End of Semester Showcase
Hear from experts working in biomedical centers on Study Tour
Broaden your perspectives and learn about the benchside of translational medicine
We visited the Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism. Professors and researchers told us about their work with Type 2 diabetes. We got to see the labs where Islet cells are isolated for treatments, and we also got to see the clinical facility where biopsies are taken for their research.� Nicole, Scripps College
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Economics Facing increased tensions in trade and inequality, how do we promote an open, well-governed playing field leveraging interconnectedness for the benefit of all? Sweden punches way above its weight in several sectors of the economy with well-established companies such as Volvo, Ikea, H&M, and innovation startups such as Spotify, Skype, and Candy Crush. However as the global stage changes, how will Sweden avoid a ‘race to the bottom’ in its response to the new economic challenges in cooperation with and compared to the rest of Europe… and the U.S.?
CORE COURSE Comparative Economics: Global Risk and European Responses Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Markets generate wealth, but there are no guarantees of how. On the international stage, the volatility of markets contributes to many of the key global challenges of our time: climate change, widening inequality, unprecedented waves of migration, financial crises, and increasing unemployment in the wake of digitalization, automation, and AI. In this course, we consider how responses to these challenges differ between Europe and the U.S., with a focus on the nature and extent of public interventions in the marketplace. Prerequisite: One course in intermediate or advanced microeconomics at university level.
Week-Long Study Tour: Athens Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 28
Visit Swedish companies like LKAB, an iron ore manufacturer, and test the theories and skills developed in class in a real-life context
While on Study Tour to Arctic Sweden, consider the economic impacts of climate change and compare responses between the U.S. and Europe
Visit the Representation of the European Commission in Greece and consider the role of the EU
On Study Tour to Athens gain insights from experts into the types of careers available in economics
Consider various government approaches to economic policy topics and present and discuss your perspectives with classmates
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Future Studies We cannot know the future, but drawing on disciplines like entrepreneurship and sociology, we can engage in informed scenarios of (your) possible futures. Explore how you can make your mark on the world and even profit from your passion. What skills and mindsets are required to navigate the future of work? Studies tell us that creativity, adaptability, resilience and teamwork are key but how are they put to work in the so-called ‘gig economy’ characterized by temporary, flexible jobs – and how does it impact the way we stitch together our careers?
CORE COURSE Global Innovators: Navigating the Gig Economy Fall/Spring
3 Credits
In this course, we take a deep dive into the vibrant community of young, entrepreneurial contract workers in Stockholm who have embraced the so-called gig economy with gusto. We examine the opportunities and challenges faced by nontraditional professionals in various industries in Sweden and beyond – and explore how people and industries are adapting to the new market for talent.
Week-Long Study Tour: Lisbon Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 30
Visit forward-thinking companies on Study Tours and hear how they are shaping company strategy around a flexible workplace for the future
Get out of the classroom and into local businesses to hear how their industries are under rapid change
Reflect on the rapidly changing world and conceptualize new approaches to careers and business models
Visits to innovative business startups include opportunities for hands-on learning
Learn strategies for effective teamwork through co-creation exercises
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Gender & Sexuality Studies Find out what it is like to live in a country known for its progressive norms and policies, and study the challenges and ideas within gender, equality, and sexuality in Sweden. Sweden is the world’s most gender-equal country with affirmative action policies, a ‘gender-responsive’ national budget, and a firm commitment to LGBTQ+ rights.
CORE COURSE Gender, Equality, and Sexuality in Scandinavia Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Paid parental leave for all parents, a high number of women in leadership positions, progressive sex education, and equal rights for homosexuals are among the hallmarks of all Scandinavian societies. However, Sweden also has the most gender-divided workplace in the world and gender equal policies do not automatically lead to gender equal behaviors. With a comparative look to neighboring countries in Europe, this course explores how concepts of gender, body, sexuality, and race intersect in current debates about changing family structures, children’s rights, and new ethical dilemmas in a changing Scandinavia.
Week-Long Study Tour: Berlin Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 32
Present your poster project at the End of Semester Showcase
Engage in a workshop on sex education at Pro Familia, Germany’s leading sexual and reproductive health and rights organization on Study Tour
Discuss current debates such as the Swedish gender-neutral approach to children and the recognition of the genderneutral pronoun hen in the Swedish dictionary
Explore current debates about parenting in Scandinavia and compare the evolving family structures observed in Sweden to the U.S.
We studied first-hand why Sweden is seen as a feminist and LGBTQ utopia, and how they have established this through their political activism.� Sophie, Elon University
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Medical Practice & Policy Do you wish to work in the medical field one day and want insight into what career opportunities await you, alongside intercultural knowledge of different practices and policies? Engage in a pre-medical experience by learning about the shift occurring in medical practice towards precision medicine, where the individual patient’s unique characteristics come into play.
CORE COURSE Precision Medicine: Tailored Treatment in Clinical Practice Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Standard clinical care is shifting its focus towards precision medicine, where the choice for treatment relies on the specific physiological characteristics of a given patient. The rapid development of ‘omics,’ including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, is currently adding a new dimension to the advancement of precision medicine and clinical care. This course covers current clinical practices within precision medicine, as well as the potential application of omics in the clinic. In addition, you study patient cases and address diagnosis and treatment by using the precision medicine approach. Note: Please be aware that the course does not provide regular medical training corresponding to that of medical students and does not include shadowing of doctors or physical examination of patients. Prerequisites: One year each of biology and chemistry at university level. Recommendation: Medical Simulation Lab
Week-Long Study Tour: Dublin Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 34
Visit hospitals and learn about their current practices for tailoring patient treatment
Get an insight into the role of precision medicine in current clinical practice while on Study Tour to Dublin
Get hands-on experience in basic clinical skills
Research how precision medicine can help treat specific diseases
Precision medicine, with the goal of giving the right treatments to the right patients at the right time, is a clear area of growth within clinical practice. Current advances in research and technology allow for a better characterization of specific groups of patients so both preventive and treatment measures can be personalized. Sweden is at the forefront regarding precision medicine both within healthcare and clinical research.� Susana Dietrich, Ph.D., Program Director
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On Field Studies, expand your understanding of the functioning of the brain with insights from local researchers
Neuroscience How do we understand the interplay between human emotions and neural networks? As humans, emotions are intrinsic to our socialization, and influence our cognition and behavior. Study and research the underlying neural networks linked to the experience, understanding, and expression of emotions.
CORE COURSE Affective Neuroscience: Emotion, Cognition, and Behavior + Lab Fall/Spring
6 Credits
This course applies findings from the interdisciplinary field of neuroscience and the psychological study of cognition, emotion, and personality. Basic, complex, and social emotions are explored from the perspective of, e.g., the subjective experience of emotion, non-conscious processes, how emotions are interpreted, expressed or regulated. Affective systems, neural networks, and their relationship to cognitive processes such as attention, learning, memory, decision making are addressed. Where relevant, human brain imaging findings, pathological conditions, treatment and cultural perspectives are considered. In the lab, you develop experiments, collect data, and analyze results. Prerequisite: One course in neuroscience, physiological psychology, or biological psychology at university level.
Week-Long Study Tour: Paris Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 36
Visit Paris on your week-long Study Tour and engage in facultyled discussions on new insights
Present your lab findings at the End of Semester Showcase
Gain hands-on experience by visiting practictioners in the field on Study Tour
On Study Tour in Paris, we discussed everything from the use of robots in social learning to different types of neuroimaging techniques (including seeing where the largest human MRI is being built, a crazy 11.7 Tesla), to current neuroaffective disorder treatments and their studies.� Cary, University of Rochester
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Psychology From crime, to well-being, to our relationship with food, psychology explores diverse aspects of the human condition. While our three Core Courses approach very different areas of psychology, all will critically examine psychological theory, research, and practice with an emphasis on Swedish and European perspectives.
CORE COURSE OPTIONS Forensic Psychology Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Positive Psychology Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Psychology of Food Fall/Spring
3 Credits
How are assessments and interventions conducted with those convicted of a serious crime, or those who have been the victim of a crime? Forensic psychology is explored from individual to societal levels, with critical analysis of and examples from a European perspective. Selected topics: cognitive, emotional, social, and neuropsychological approaches to the nature and treatment of criminal behavior.
Through theory, research, and application, examine the psychology of well-being with both its possibilities and limitations, focusing on topics such as positive emotions, character strengths, flow, flourishing, mindfulness, creativity, and post-traumatic growth. Investigate how positive psychology can be applied in professional settings such as business development and the clinical context.
Explore the neurological, psychological, cultural, and social aspects of our relationship with food. Consider the historical and current meanings of food: from social media “Food Pornographers� and ethically-inspired vegans, to the paradox of growing obesity amidst malnourishment and eating disorders. Investigate how food can be used as a means of social connectedness, a mechanism of exclusion, or a theme in mental illnesses.
Prerequisite: One psychology course at university level. Recommendation: Forensic Psychology Lab
Prerequisite: One psychology course at university level.
Prerequisite: One psychology course at university level.
Week-Long Study Tour: Athens Short Study Tour: Sweden
Week-Long Study Tour: Paris Short Study Tour: Sweden
Week-Long Study Tour: Edinburgh Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 38
Explore well-being in the Greek context by learning about local practices on Study Tour
Investigate the social constructs around food culture in France on Study Tour to Paris
Summarize your key findings from Core Course Week visits with a workshops and group presentations
Visit Edinburgh police station and discuss crime prevention strategies and how the Scottish system seeks to improve victim and witness experiences
Each organization we visited in Sweden was unique, showing a more humane approach to helping people’s needs, and working towards preventing people from re-offending, not simply punishing them.� Liz, St. Olaf College
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Public Health From Sweden to Switzerland, Europe has faced a dramatic rise in migration, with each country responding differently to the challenges and opportunities that this situation presents to the healthcare systems. The complex relationship between migration and existing healthcare structures is an ongoing challenge across Europe. Through contemporary case studies, investigate migrants’ health needs and evaluate their access to care.
CORE COURSE Â Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Migrants, including refugees, asylum seekers, and economic migrants, are voluntarily or involuntarily moving to new locations, such as Sweden. Upon arrival, some may be suffering from tuberculosis, HIV, or other diseases rarely occurring in the host country. This course addresses the health status and care needs as well as the legal, financial, and cultural barriers to accessing treatment faced by the migrant population. Through contemporary case studies, you analyze the relationship between migrant health needs and the existing healthcare structure.
Week-Long Study Tour: Geneva Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 40
Meet with local and international organizations on the Study Tour to Geneva
Analyze local approaches to health intervention with a group of fellow students
Hear from researchers studying application of dental care for migrants and asylum seekers in Sweden
Present on public health challenges and opportunities happening currently throughout Europe
Never in my wildest dreams would I have guessed that I would be standing in the headquarters of the UN – the organization that published the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, approved the creation of the World Food Program, and set the precedent for the nonproliferation of nuclear weapons!� Yvette, Brandeis University
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Gain hands-on experience on Study Tour in a workshop on cyber surveillance and intelligence
Terrorism & Security How are security threats defined and responded to in a changing Europe? Explore the complexity of European security dilemmas in light of the movement of people and increased tensions among nations.
CORE COURSE
European Security Dilemmas Fall/Spring
3 Credits
Europe is under pressure and what constitutes a security threat is changing, too: A larger Russian presence in the region and increased risk of terrorism, but also fundamentalist and right-wing tendencies, the risk of pandemics, cyber terrorism, and European governments struggling to respond in unison to increasing numbers of refugees. Drawing on European schools of thought within international security studies, this course explores current security dilemmas in Europe. Prerequisite: One international relations or political science course at university level.
Week-Long Study Tour: Berlin Short Study Tour: Sweden
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Participate in a Terrorism and Security Simulation Game
Visit the Parliament House in Stockholm on a Field Study led by your faculty
Meet with German defense officials and discuss pressing security threats in Europe on Study Tour
We must remain conscious of our freedoms, what we value as humans, and how we should deal with those structures and individuals who threaten the values we cherish. When there is no discussion, there is dogma. No one witnesses the tragedies of this better than the residents of Berlin.� Doug, College of William and Mary
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Vikings & Power The Viking Age, for better and for worse, influenced world history, and Viking culture still resonates in contemporary Sweden and beyond. Walk in the Vikings’ historical footsteps, from Sweden to Iceland, as you examine Viking society, politics, expansion, gender roles, religion, and legacy.
CORE COURSE World of the Vikings Fall/Spring
3 Credits
In this course, we study the history and worldview of pre-Christian Scandinavians as reflected in medieval textual sources and in poems and artifacts from the Viking Age (793 - 1066 CE). We examine Norse society, political structures, gender ideals, religion, and mythology. You learn about Viking expansion, colonies, and conquests as we travel to Iceland on our week-long Study Tour. An essential part of this interdisciplinary course is dedicated to medieval Icelandic sagas and how Vikings are portrayed in modern public history and contemporary popular culture.
Week-Long Study Tour: Iceland Short Study Tour: Sweden
FOUND YOUR CORE COURSE? Great! Now jump forward to the Courses chapter and choose your electives from across 48 disciplines. 44
Study Viking Age texts and how modern-day societies reflect these origins
Familiarize yourself with the reasons for the Viking expansions from trade to settlements
Consider the legacy of the Vikings today while visiting a replica of the boat sailed by the first Vikings to set foot in North America
Sail out to the island of Björkö, and explore Stockholm’s Viking roots by visiting Birka, Sweden’s first city, on a Field Study
Step into the shoes of the Viking heroes of the old Icelandic sagas as you explore the wonders of the natural island on Study Tour
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One of the most important aspects of studying at DIS is hands-on learning. We take what we learn in the classroom even further on Field Studies to see how it is applied in the real world.� Delgado, Hamilton College
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Course Descriptions
Affective Neuroscience Lab Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Neuroscience. Psychology. In this course, you test relationships between emotion and cognitive functions by creating an experimental group research project in its entirety. Through this process, you actively participate in cognitive neuroscience research by elaborating your own research question, implementing it into an experimental paradigm (for e.g. behavioral measures such as self- report, face recording camera, reaction time etc.), collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting your results in light of neuroimaging literature. Finally, you present your results in the form of scientific papers, oral presentations, and posters. Class work consists of supervision of your research activities and review of selected research topics (e.g., ethics, design, and methods) within the field of affective neuroscience. Corequisite: Affective Neuroscience: Emotions, Cognition, and Behavior Affective Neuroscience: Emotions, Cognition, and Behavior Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Neuroscience. Psychology. How do we understand the interplay of human emotions and their neural networks? This course applies findings from the interdisciplinary field of neuroscience and the psychological study of cognition, emotion, and personality. Basic, complex, and social emotions are explored from the perspective of, e.g., the subjective experience of emotion, non-conscious processes, how emotions are interpreted, expressed or regulated. Affective systems, neural networks, and their relationship to cognitive processes such as attention, learning, memory, decision making are addressed. Where relevant, human brain imaging findings, pathological conditions, treatment and cultural perspectives are considered. Prerequisite: One course in neuroscience, physiological psychology, or biological psychology at university level. Corequisite: Affective Neuroscience Lab Behavioral Economics Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Economics. Behavioral economics has dramatically increased the power of economic models to analyze individual and market behavior. It replaces the psychological assumptions that have traditionally held sway in economics with a more flexible, data-driven approach. In this course, we explore what recent research in behavioral economics reveals about how humans systematically deviate from rationality in our economic decision-making. We focus on cases and examples, specifically on how cultural norms, behavioral biases, and decision-making practices in the Nordic and European countries differ from the largely American data set used by the founders of the field, in order to identify promising new directions in understanding and predicting how people actually act and interact in the marketplace. Prerequisite: One course in intermediate or advanced microeconomics at university level.
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Comparative Economics: Global Risk and European Responses Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Economics. Markets generate wealth, but there are no guarantees of how. On the international stage, the volatility of markets contributes to many of the key global challenges of our time: climate change, widening inequality, unprecedented waves of migration, financial crises, and increasing unemployment in the wake of digitalization, automation, and AI. In this course, we consider how responses to these challenges differ between Europe and the U.S., with a focus on the nature and extent of public interventions in the marketplace. Prerequisite: One course in intermediate or advanced microeconomics at university level. Developing Brain: From Infancy to Adolescence Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Human Development. Neuroscience. Psychology. A cognitive behavioral neuroscience perspective is used to explore the normal development of the child, from infancy to adolescence with regard to perception, attention language, learning, memory, executive function, emotion, and social cognition. Brain structures and functions that support these processes developmentally, such as neuroplasticity and critical/ sensitive periods are considered, as are the implications of culture and the social context. Scandinavian perspectives are considered where applicable. Prerequisite: One course in neuroscience, physiological psychology, or biological psychology at university level. Economics of Gender Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Economics. Finance. Gender Studies. Why are women persistently underpaid and exploited, even in advanced Western economies? Why are gender quotas in corporate management so often ineffective? How do Scandinavian countries’ generous parental leave policies and subsidized childcare affect women’s participation in the workforce? This course investigates the costs and other implications of gender inequality in the economy, and examines a variety of public policy measures designed to ensure economic justice for all. Prerequisite: One microeconomics course at university level. Economics of Global Monetary Policies and Capital Flows Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Economics. Finance. The 2007 financial crisis was a wake-up call for economists. The global nature of the crisis has highlighted the 21st-century economy’s unprecedented global interdependence, and its accompanying vulnerability to international pressure on money markets and capital. This course explores a variety of economic accounts of how money markets, monetary policies, foreign exchange, and capital interact in the global economy, and how these relate to current debates on how best to regulate the world’s financial systems. Prerequisite: One course in intermediate or advanced macroeconomics at university level.
Epidemiology: Swedish Case Studies Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Pre-Medicine/Health Science. Public Health. This course focuses on the central concepts of epidemiology and the different study designs available. You analyze and assess epidemiologic studies of health status in the Swedish population and explore the value of the renowned Swedish population-based registers. Throughout the course, you discuss how epidemiology contributes to the large body of public health research and informs decision making in the field. European Security Dilemmas Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. International Relations. Political Science. Europe is under pressure and what constitutes a security threat is changing, too: a larger Russian presence in the region and increased risk of terrorism, but also fundamentalist and right-wing tendencies, the risk of pandemics, cyber terrorism, and European governments struggling to respond in unison to increasing numbers of refugees. Drawing on European schools of thought within international security studies, this course explores current security dilemmas in Europe. Prerequisite: One international relations or political science course at university level. Forensic Psychology Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Criminology/Criminal Justice. Psychology. Sociology. What makes people commit crime? Are there gender differences? What is the role of perception? How are assessments and interventions conducted with those convicted of a serious crime, or those who have been the victim of a crime? Forensic psychology is explored from individual to societal levels, with critical analysis of and examples from a European perspective. Selected topics: cognitive, emotional, social, and neuropsychological approaches to the nature and treatment of criminal behavior. Prerequisite: One psychology course at university level. Forensic Psychology Lab Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Criminology/Criminal Justice. Psychology. Sociology. In this lab, you conduct your own research pertaining to Forensic Psychology topics such as deception in cross-cultural contexts, lying behavior on social media, or eyewitness testimony. Research methods can include surveys, interviews, use of eye-tracking, and other methods to answer research questions. Class work consists of supervision of research activities pertaining to, e.g. ethics, methods, data analysis, and completion of a research report. Corequisite: Forensic Psychology Gender, Equality, and Sexuality in Scandinavia Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Anthropology. Gender Studies. Sociology. Sweden is the most gender equal country in the world and paid parental leave for all parents, a high number of women in leadership positions, progressive sex education, and equal rights for homosexuals are among the hallmarks of all Scandinavian societies. However, Sweden also has the most gender-divided workplace in the world and gender equal policies do not automatically lead to gender equal behaviors. With a comparative look to neighboring countries in Europe, this course explores how concepts of gender, body, sexuality, and race intersect in current debates about changing family structures, children’s rights, and new ethical dilemmas in a changing Scandinavia.
Course Descriptions
Global Innovators: Navigating the Gig Economy Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Business. Entrepreneurship. Management. The so-called gig economy – characterized by temporary, flexible jobs – is one of the largest current trends to affect the workplace and has the potential to change how we stitch together our careers. What is the gig economy and the shape of the future workplace – its opportunities and challenges? What skills and mindsets are required to navigate it? How can you profit from your passion? In this course, we take a deep dive into the vibrant and mostly thriving community of young contract workers in Stockholm who have embraced the gig economy with gusto. We examine the opportunities and challenges faced by nontraditional workers in various industries in Sweden and beyond – and explore how business culture is changing to adapt to the new landscape in the market for talent.
Immunology and Infectious Diseases Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Biology. Biomedicine/Biotechnology. Pre-Medicine/ Health Science. This course provides you with an understanding of immunology and infectious diseases at an advanced level. You learn about the immune system and how it can fight infection. Examples of different types of clinically relevant infectious agents and which type of immunity they activate are provided. You also learn how an immune response can fail and how infectious agents can overcome the natural immune response and cause disease. In addition, the course illustrates how the immune response against these agents can be manipulated through the use of vaccines. Prerequisites: One year of biology, one chemistry course, and one course in either molecular biology or genetics, all at university level.
Glued to the Screen: TV Shows, Norms, and Culture Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Communication. Film Studies. Media Studies. From broadcast syndication to Netflix binge watching, our experience with television is dynamic and evolving. Yet, what persists is its power to shape our societies’ gender roles, race relations, class divisions, sexual norms, and values. This course introduces the notion of TV as a cultural forum, a social regulator, and a social critique. Using examples from American and Scandinavian television, we analyze how TV operates by working through social issues, and how TV shows mirror societal concerns and assumptions.
Independent Research Project Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. If you would like to conduct research while in Sweden, perhaps as part of a project for your home university, you may apply for an Independent Research Project under the guidance of a Swedish faculty supervisor. The project should use Stockholm specifically as a resource. For this option, you must plan your research project the semester before DIS with a professor at your home university who must be willing to communicate with you and your DIS research supervisor while you are abroad. Note: Additional application required – see website for details.
History of Sweden in Europe and the World Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. History. This course focuses on Sweden’s historical relationships to the Baltic region, Europe, and the U.S. We look at the Great Power Era, the poverty and mass emigration of the 19th century, the inter-war Middle Way, World War II, and, finally, the post-war era. With emphasis on post-1989 Sweden and Europe, we examine Sweden’s international profile and power, which influences Sweden’s national identity and future.
International Investment and Portfolio Management Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Business. Economics. Finance. This course focuses on fundamental concepts in investment and portfolio management: risk-return tradeoff, portfolio optimization, and diversification. The objective of the course is to develop a thorough understanding of the key principals of portfolio management and asset pricing theory and to learn how to apply them in practice. We also compare the European markets with the US markets – are they just a copy or are there differences? By the end of this course you become able to calculate the price for bonds and equities, calculate the risks on various instruments and asset portfolios, and evaluate the performance of an active portfolio management. Prerequisites: One course each in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and finance at university level.
Human Trafficking and the Sex Trade Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Gender Studies. Human Rights. Legal Studies. Globally, human trafficking ranks among the most profitable criminal activities. It is a violation of human rights, which manifests itself in ever-evolving ways of exploitation of people. In this course you gain an understanding of the many types of human trafficking ranging from child trafficking, and organ trafficking, to trafficking for exploitation in prostitution or labor. You also learn the most important elements of legal and policy frameworks addressing trafficking at the European and international level.
Medical Ethics Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Ethics. Pre-Medicine/Health Science. Public Health. The practice of medicine entails a multitude of dilemmas for the healthcare provider and patient, including issues such as justice and access to care, confidentiality, and informed consent. In addition, difficult decisions involving values, norms, principles, and priorities are present in everyday clinical work. In this course, you discuss and apply ethical theories to concrete examples of clinical practice such as euthanasia, reproduction technology and organ donation, and discuss ethical questions related to medical research.
Medical Simulation Lab Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Biology. Biomedicine/Biotechnology. Pre-medicine/ Health Sciences. In this hands-on lab course, you focus on specific diseases and follow the diagnosis and treatment pathway of a patient. Learn about relevant anatomy and physiology by using virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) alongside traditional approaches. Learn about the ever-growing field of medical imaging and how methods such as X-ray, CT, MR, and ultrasound are becoming an increasing part of medical diagnostics and treatment. You gain a clear idea of how certain interventions and surgical procedures are executed through the use of medical simulators or VR. Corequisite: Precision Medicine: Tailored Treatment in Clinical Practice Neurodegenerative Diseases Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Biomedicine/Biotechnology. Neuroscience. PreMedicine/Health Science. The course aims to convey theoretical and practical knowledge on the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases for students interested in basic, translational, and clinical research. You obtain an overall understanding of neurodegeneration and gain detailed insight into the most common neurodegenerative disorders. Topics include the clinical manifestations of the diseases, genetics of neurodegeneration, pathomechanisms of disease development, current research models, and the epidemiology of disease. Prerequisites: One year each of biology and chemistry at university level. Nordic Contemporary Art Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Art History. In this course, we engage the city and art scene of Stockholm to analyze artworks, exhibitions, and texts. What is contemporary and what is Nordic about the art and issues that surface here? The course includes a focus on identity politics, such as feminist, postcolonial, and queer perspectives in Nordic contemporary art. Philosophy of Technology and Human Values Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Ethics. Philosophy. Technology has increasingly been enhancing our experiences, fulfilling our desires, and broadening our abilities, both on a large scale and in the daily lives of individuals. Do we control technology or does it control us? How can we respond critically to the use and development of technology? This course examines such pressing questions from a Scandinavian, ethical, social, environmental, and philosophical perspectives. Photo Documentary and Discovery Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Exploration Elective. Communication. Journalism. Media Studies. Use your camera as a passport for opening doors in Sweden, and as your tool to explore and understand the cultures, people, and places you encounter. In this course, you learn to research and tell your individual story through photography. Through workshops and excursions outside the classroom, you develop the skills to dive into different cultures and use your camera as a medium for understanding a community and telling your story. Notes: Additional Application required – see website for details. This course includes a travel component to Berlin, Germany during the Study Break.
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Course Descriptions
Positive Psychology Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Education/Educational Studies. Human Development. Psychology. This course combines a study of theory, research, and application in the rapidly growing field of positive psychology. You critically examine the psychology of well-being with both its possibilities and limitations, focusing on topics such as positive emotions, character strengths, flow, flourishing, mindfulness, creativity, and post-traumatic growth within the context of culture and history. You investigate how positive psychology complements other areas of psychology, therapy, coaching, and communication, and how it can be applied in real-world, professional settings such as business development and the clinical context. Prerequisite: One psychology course at university level. Power of the Mind: Psychology of Performance Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Psychology. Sociology. How do we achieve what we want? Why do we fail? This course explores performance from a psychological perspective in diverse areas such as academics, sports, creative pursuits, work performance, and leadership. Topics to be considered are various theories pertaining to motivation, the role of emotion, personality, and the effect of cultural values and expectations with examples from a Scandinavian context. The benefits of optimal performance and maladaptive responses are explored, and interventions are considered. Precision Medicine: Tailored Treatment in Clinical Practice Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Biology. Biomedicine/Biotechnology. Pre-medicine/ Health Sciences. Standard clinical care is shifting its focus towards precision medicine, where the choice for treatment relies on the specific physiological characteristics of a given patient. The rapid development of ‘omics,’ including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, is currently adding a new dimension to the advancement of precision medicine and clinical care. This course covers current clinical practices within precision medicine, as well as the potential clinical application of omics in the clinic. In addition, you study patient cases and address diagnosis and treatment by using the precision medicine approach. Prerequisites: One year each of biology and chemistry at university level. Notes: Please be aware that the course does not provide regular medical training corresponding to that of medical students and does not include shadowing of doctors or physical examination of patients. Psychology of Emerging Adulthood Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Human Development. Psychology. Sociology. What is an adult? This class addresses the transition from adolescence to adulthood. The psychological implications of the adolescent experience and further development into adulthood pertaining to identity, family, love and sex, cohabitation and marriage, career, and community (i.e. religion and politics) are considered and the Scandinavian perspective are explored. Sources of resilience and vulnerabilities are addressed as this pertains to diverse factors, including cultural variables and the role of social media. Prerequisite: One psychology course at the university level.
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Psychology of Food Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Food Studies. Psychology. We all have a relationship to food and it is much more than physiology. This course explores the neurological, psychological, cultural, and social aspects of our relationship with food. Food’s historical and current meaning are considered: From social media food pornographers and ethically-inspired vegans to the paradox of growing obesity amidst malnourishment and eating disorders. Food can be used as means of social connectedness, be a mechanism of exclusion, or a theme in mental illnesses. Food is indeed psychology. Prerequisites: One psychology course at university level. Psychology of Loneliness Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Human Development. Psychology. Sociology. What is loneliness and what causes it? Is it the nature of our human condition? Is it a feeling or a thought? Does age, personality, or social contact matter? Topics to be considered are the causes and consequences of loneliness from a psychological perspective and the impact of modern society; sources of resilience and vulnerabilities; implications of loneliness vs. aloneness/ solitude; and interventions for alleviating loneliness. Cultural implications and the Scandinavian perspective are also explored. Psychology of Political Behavior Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Political Science. Psychology. Sociology. This course emphasizes the psychological mechanisms affecting political reasoning and behavior, such as how psychological biases affect our cognition, informationprocessing, and political behavior. Comparisons between U.S. and Swedish political contexts are explored, specifically examining how the political mind is embedded in social frameworks. This course is based on theory and research from the field of political psychology, an interdisciplinary academic field studying the relationships between psychological and political processes. Prerequisite: One psychology course at university level. Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Global Health. Public Health. Sociology. Migrants, including refugees, asylum seekers, and economic migrants, are voluntarily or involuntarily moving to new locations, such as Sweden. Upon arrival, some may be suffering from tuberculosis, HIV, or other diseases rarely occurring in the host country. This course addresses the health status and care needs as well as the legal, financial, and cultural barriers to accessing treatment faced by the migrant population. Through contemporary case studies, you analyze the relationship between migrant health needs and the existing healthcare structure. Public Health Policy in Practice Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Pre-Medicine/Health Science. Public Health. Public Policy. Sweden is facing a number of challenges, including achieving cost-effectiveness in health care, and addressing public health concerns such as increasing inequalities. This course provides an overview of the Swedish health system, within the broader welfare state, and compared to other Scandinavian and European countries. You gain insight into how Sweden assesses public health challenges through research, health information management and economic evaluation. Furthermore, you explore, analyze, and discuss how public health policies are developed and implemented in practice.
Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits Fall/Spring. 3 or 6 Credits. Elective Course. See website for current disciplines. Want to engage in research in an international setting? Spend the semester working closely with a research mentor and be a part of a real research project, grasping the complexities of research process and gaining experience that prepares you for a future career. By the end of the semester, you will have made your own tangible contribution to the project and honed your research skills. Prerequisites: Multiple Research Assistant opportunities are available each semester – each having their own specific prerequisites – see website for details. Note: Additional application required – see website for details. Scandinavia in the Middle Ages: From Viking Warriors to Christian Knights Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. History. This course focuses on the development of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden as kingdoms in the Middle Ages, in terms of internal relations and contact, conflict, and exchanges with continental Europe and the wider world. We examine state building and law-making, Christianization and church organization, feuds, rebellions, and warfare, the Baltic crusades and forced conversion of pagans, literary and cultural developments, as well as migration and border-crossing. The aim of the course is to consider these phenomena in the intersection between cultural adaptation and domestic creativity; to what extent does Scandinavia adapt to wider European trends, and to what extent are they independently formed? Scandinavian Crime Fiction Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Literature. Why is Scandinavian crime fiction so popular? Is it the terse language or the Nordic landscape? Is it that the protagonists are anti-heroes, feminists, or outsiders? What makes these novels so appealing? In this course we study Nordic crime fiction in which the most fantastic murders take place, dark secrets are exposed, and the validity of the Scandinavian welfare state and lifestyle is questioned. Scandinavian Textiles and Fashion Workshop Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Exploration Elective. Design. Fashion Studies. Studio Art. Uncover your individual design aesthetic and unleash your creative identity by exploring textiles in fashion and surface design and how they change the way we dress as well as the spaces around us. The course combines visits to global Scandinavian brands the likes of H&M, Filipa K, and Marimekko with readings and studies of tactility, expression, and materials and a workshop component, where you develop your own digital lookbook of individual innovative design work. Notes: Additional Application required – see website for details. This course includes a travel component to Helsinki, Finland during the Study Break. Sex Education and Sexual Reform in Europe Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Gender Studies. History. Sociology. This course explores how sexual reform and sex education have shaped the history of sexuality in Europe, as well as the very core of national identities, such as Swedish and Danish identities. We look into different movements, campaigns, policies, and public debates that regard sexuality. You apply theoretical perspectives by Freud, Foucault, Butler, and Nussbaum and critically reflect on the history of sexual categorizations of human beings.
Course Descriptions
Sexuality in Scandinavian Cinema Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Gender Studies. Film Studies. Sociology. Sex-liberal Scandinavia makes for an interesting case when tracing sexuality in film history. It reveals a dynamic power struggle about what can and cannot be shown on the big screen. In this course, we trace the history of sexual norms and behavior in cinema and examine the emergence of sexually explicit films starting in the 1960s. We study how the Scandinavian countries differed in censorship policies at that time and also focus on how sexualities are tackled in contemporary Scandinavian cinema, including queer films. Smart and Sustainable Cities Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Public Policy. Sustainability. Urban Studies. People flock to the cities, and the trend only seems to continue. It puts cities under tremendous pressure across the world. Stockholm has come a long way in terms of ‘smart’ solutions that can help shape future cities: intelligent and flexible energy systems; ‘smart’ street lighting, intelligent traffic control, etc. In this course we look at the major trends and developments as well as raise critical questions. Whom are smart cities for? Who is involved? How do they contribute to the sustainable development goals? What about issues of cyber security? How would smart cities change the humannature relation? Songwriting Workshop: Swedish Pop Music Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Music. In this music course you are trained in songwriting in a masterclass setting. The course is taught at your individual level and may include voice training, accompaniment, and/or music production. You learn different writing techniques and lyrics analysis. As part of the course, we meet with experienced Swedish songwriters who share their inspirations and methods for songwriting as you develop your own creative ideas. Field studies include visits to the contemporary Stockholm music scene. Note: Experience in music making or music performance is recommended. Storytelling Workshop: How Narrative Works Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Communication. Creative Writing. Literature. What makes a good story? This course combines narrative theory and writing exercises to study and practice the art of storytelling. Our areas of analysis are film, television, literature, and other facets of popular culture with a special focus on the Nordic context. Swedish Language and Culture: Intermediate Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Anthropology. Language. We build on language acquired in a previous semester or through experience. We work intensively with spoken everyday language, and with complex written texts. Literature, news articles, television series, movies, music, politics, and cultural issues are discussed in class, as well as your personal experience while living in Sweden. The aim is to help each student gain the experience of being an active participant in the Swedish society rather than just a tourist passing by. Prerequisite: Must speak a Scandinavian language.
Swedish Language and Culture: Level I Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Anthropology. Language. The goal of this course is to ensure you do not feel linguistically isolated while studying in Sweden. You learn enough Swedish to understand what is going on around you in your daily life, while also becoming familiar with Swedish history and culture. The course includes topics on the burning issues of contemporary Sweden so that you can have interesting conversations with the locals and increase your ability to reflect on your cross-cultural experience living in Sweden. Swedish Language and Culture: Level I-II Fall/Spring. 6 Credits. Elective Course. Anthropology. Language. This intensive course covers two semesters of Swedish language content in one, making it an excellent option for students who wish to advance quickly in their knowledge of the language. The emphasis is on speaking, writing, and understanding basic Swedish language. Swedish literature, film, and music are included in the curriculum. Politics, burning cultural issues, and your personal experiences form the cornerstone of class discussions. Swedish Politics and Society Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. International Relations. Political Science. Sociology. This course provides you with a broad-ranging knowledge of Swedish politics and society, exploring the basis of Swedish political culture and national identity, the political system, and the roots and challenges of the Swedish welfare state. It focuses on contemporary issues like the special role of the immigration policy and the challenge from the new right wing political party. It also includes an introduction to Swedish foreign policy and the character of Swedish neutrality. Terrorism and Anti-Terrorism Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. International Relations. Political Science. Terrorism and counter-terrorism have been on everybody’s mind since 9/11. However, terrorism didn’t just appear out of the blue on that horrifying September day. This course is a study of terrorism – its causes, aims, and forms – and of counterterrorism measures introduced by the international community and individual states. The course examines the implications of terrorism for international politics in the 21st century. Transgender in Scandinavia Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Gender Studies. Sociology. Transgender celebrities such as Caitlin Jenner and Laverne Cox fueled mainstream interest in transgender lives and experiences. But trans and queer communities have long fought for trans persons’ rights to be ‘true to self.’ This course explores the history of trans activism with a special focus on Sweden and how legislative and medical discourses change how we think about gender identities and rights. We also explore topics such as transphobia, gender-neutral pronouns, gender passing, transgender children and their families, and how race and class intersect with being trans.
Translational Medicine: The Power of Biomedical Research Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. Biology. Biomedicine/Biotechnology. Pre-Medicine/ Health Science. Translational medicine aims to obtain a new understanding of disease mechanisms and strives to design and develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools. It covers the cyclical journey linking unmet patient needs, laboratory research, and clinical trials. The major emphasis of the course lies on the dynamic interplay between the world of in vitro and in vivo laboratory-based preclinical research and the world of clinical research. During the course, you interact with interdisciplinary teams of researchers who collaborate towards translating biomedical research discoveries into medical practice. Prerequisites: One year each of biology and chemistry at university level. Tumor Biology and Oncology Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Biology. Pre-Medicine/Health Science. This course provides you with insight into the molecular and cellular events involved in tumor formation, progression, and metastasis. You learn about the clinical aspects of different types of cancer, diagnostic procedures, and the specific therapies (surgery and various oncological treatments). Examples of molecular, genetic, and other biological events related to cancer etiology, symptoms, and targets for cancer therapy are given in addition to other clinical aspects. Related topics are presented, such as cancer research methodology and its strengths and limitations, psychosocial perspectives of cancer diagnosis, and palliative oncology and supportive care. Emphasis is on the correlation between the molecular basis of cancer and its clinical implications. Prerequisite: One year of biology at university level. Ways of Seeing: Storytelling Through Photography Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Elective Course. Communication. Photography. Visual Arts. Photographs tell stories in ways words cannot, and this class invites you to fully immerse yourself in Swedish life and tell stories with your camera. Together, we utilize photography as a means of making sense of your time abroad and reflecting on your life experiences in general. You engage with the medium of photography, critically analyze examples of photojournalism, and learn about the theories and historical tradition that your photos reference. Prerequisite: Bring a camera. It is recommended to bring a digital camera other than a phone. Note: Please be aware that this is not a technical photography foundation course. World of the Vikings Fall/Spring. 3 Credits. Core Course. History. In this course, we study the history and worldview of preChristian Scandinavians as reflected in medieval textual sources and in poems and artifacts from the Viking Age (793 – 1066 CE). We examine Norse society, political structures, gender ideals, religion, and mythology. You learn about Viking expansion, colonies, and conquests. An essential part of this interdisciplinary course is dedicated to medieval Icelandic sagas and how Vikings are portrayed in modern public history and contemporary popular culture.
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Course List by Discipline
KEY: BLUE: Core Courses - you can only enroll in one per semester GREEN: Exploration Electives ORANGE: Lab Courses PURPLE: Research Assistant Courses (listed under the disciplines offered at the time of publishing - see website for current research disciplines in your semester at DISabroad.org/sth-courses)
COMMUNICATION ·· Glued to the Screen: TV Shows, Norms, and Culture ·· Photo Documentary and Discovery ·· Storytelling Workshop: How Narrative Works ·· Ways of Seeing: Storytelling Through Photography CREATIVE WRITING ·· Storytelling Workshop: How Narrative Works CRIMINOLOGY/CRIMINAL JUSTICE ·· Forensic Psychology ·· Forensic Psychology Lab ·· Human Trafficking and the Sex Trade ·· Scandinavian Crime Fiction DESIGN ·· Scandinavian Textiles and Fashion Workshop
ANTHROPOLOGY ·· Gender, Equality, and Sexuality in Scandinavia ·· Human Trafficking and the Sex Trade ·· Swedish Language and Culture: Intermediate ·· Swedish Language and Culture: Level I ·· Swedish Language and Culture: Level I-II ART HISTORY ·· Nordic Contemporary Art BIOLOGY ·· Immunology and Infectious Diseases ·· Medical Simulation Lab ·· Neurodegenerative Diseases ·· Precision Medicine: Tailored Treatment in Clinical Practice ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits ·· Translational Medicine: The Power of Biomedical Research ·· Tumor Biology and Oncology BIOMEDICINE / BIOTECHNOLOGY ·· Immunology and Infectious Diseases ·· Medical Simulation Lab ·· Neurodegenerative Diseases ·· Precision Medicine: Tailored Treatment in Clinical Practice ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits ·· Translational Medicine: The Power of Biomedical Research BUSINESS ·· Global Innovators: Navigating the Gig Economy ·· International Investment and Portfolio Management
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ECONOMICS ·· Behavioral Economics ·· Comparative Economics: Global Risk and European Responses ·· Economics of Gender ·· Economics of Global Monetary Policies and Capital Flows ·· International Investment and Portfolio Management EDUCATION / EDUCATIONAL STUDIES ·· Developing Brain: From Infancy to Adolescence ·· Positive Psychology ·· Power of the Mind: Psychology of Performance ·· Psychology of Emerging Adulthood ENTREPRENEURSHIP ·· Global Innovators: Navigating the Gig Economy ETHICS ·· Medical Ethics ·· Philosophy of Technology and Human Values ETHNIC STUDIES ·· Psychology of Emerging Adulthood FASHION STUDIES ·· Scandinavian Textiles and Fashion Workshop FILM STUDIES ·· Glued to the Screen: TV Shows, Norms, and Culture ·· Sexuality in Scandinavian Cinema ·· Storytelling Workshop: How Narrative Works
FINANCE ·· Economics of Gender ·· Economics of Global Monetary Policies and Capital Flows ·· International Investment and Portfolio Management FOOD STUDIES ·· Psychology of Food GENDER STUDIES ·· Economics of Gender ·· Gender, Equality, and Sexuality in Scandinavia ·· Human Trafficking and the Sex Trade ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits ·· Sex Education and Sexual Reform in Europe ·· Sexuality in Scandinavian Cinema ·· Transgender in Scandinavia GLOBAL HEALTH ·· Epidemiology: Swedish Case Studies ·· Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights GOVERNMENT ·· European Security Dilemmas ·· Public Health Policy in Practice ·· Terrorism and Anti-Terrorism HISTORY ·· History of Sweden in Europe and the World ·· Scandinavia in the Middle Ages: From Viking Warriors to Christian Knights ·· Sex Education and Sexual Reform in Europe ·· World of the Vikings HUMAN DEVELOPMENT ·· Developing Brain: From Infancy to Adolescence ·· Positive Psychology ·· Psychology of Emerging Adulthood ·· Psychology of Loneliness HUMAN RIGHTS ·· Human Trafficking and the Sex Trade ·· Transgender in Scandinavia INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS ·· European Security Dilemmas ·· History of Sweden in Europe and the World ·· Psychology of Political Behavior ·· Swedish Politics and Society ·· Terrorism and Anti-Terrorism INTERIOR DESIGN ·· Scandinavian Textiles and Fashion Workshop
Course List by Discipline
JOURNALISM ·· Photo Documentary and Discovery LANGUAGE ·· Swedish Language and Culture: Intermediate ·· Swedish Language and Culture: Level I ·· Swedish Language and Culture: Level I-II LEADERSHIP STUDIES ·· Power of the Mind: Psychology of Performance ·· Psychology of Political Behavior ·· Swedish Politics and Society LEGAL STUDIES ·· Forensic Psychology ·· Human Trafficking and the Sex Trade ·· Transgender in Scandinavia LITERATURE ·· Scandinavia in the Middle Ages: From Viking Warriors to Christian Knights ·· Scandinavian Crime Fiction ·· Storytelling Workshop: How Narrative Works ·· World of the Vikings MANAGEMENT ·· Global Innovators: Navigating the Gig Economy MEDIA STUDIES ·· Glued to the Screen: TV Shows, Norms, and Culture ·· Photo Documentary and Discovery ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits ·· Sexuality in Scandinavian Cinema ·· Ways of Seeing: Storytelling Through Photography MUSIC ·· Songwriting Workshop: Swedish Pop Music NEUROSCIENCE ·· Affective Neuroscience Lab ·· Affective Neuroscience: Emotions, Cognition, and Behavior ·· Developing Brain: From Infancy to Adolescence ·· Neurodegenerative Diseases ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR ·· Positive Psychology
PHILOSOPHY ·· Psychology of Food ·· Medical Ethics ·· Philosophy of Technology and Human Values PHOTOGRAPHY ·· Photo Documentary and Discovery ·· Ways of Seeing: Storytelling Through Photography POLITICAL SCIENCE ·· Economics of Gender ·· European Security Dilemmas ·· Psychology of Political Behavior ·· Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights ·· Public Health Policy in Practice ·· Swedish Politics and Society ·· Terrorism and Anti-Terrorism PRE-MEDICINE / HEALTH SCIENCE ·· Affective Neuroscience Lab ·· Affective Neuroscience: Emotions, Cognition, and Behavior ·· Developing Brain: From Infancy to Adolescence ·· Epidemiology: Swedish Case Studies ·· Immunology and Infectious Diseases ·· Medical Ethics ·· Medical Simulation Lab ·· Neurodegenerative Diseases ·· Precision Medicine: Tailored Treatment in Clinical Practice ·· Public Health Policy in Practice ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits ·· Translational Medicine: The Power of Biomedical Research ·· Tumor Biology and Oncology PSYCHOLOGY ·· Affective Neuroscience Lab ·· Affective Neuroscience: Emotions, Cognition, and Behavior ·· Developing Brain: From Infancy to Adolescence ·· Forensic Psychology ·· Forensic Psychology Lab ·· Positive Psychology ·· Power of the Mind: Psychology of Performance ·· Psychology of Emerging Adulthood ·· Psychology of Food ·· Psychology of Loneliness ·· Psychology of Political Behavior
PUBLIC HEALTH ·· Epidemiology: Swedish Case Studies ·· Human Trafficking and the Sex Trade ·· Medical Ethics ·· Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights ·· Public Health Policy in Practice ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits PUBLIC POLICY ·· Economics of Gender ·· Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights ·· Public Health Policy in Practice ·· Smart and Sustainable Cities ·· Swedish Politics and Society RELIGIOUS STUDIES ·· World of the Vikings SOCIOLOGY ·· Forensic Psychology ·· Forensic Psychology Lab ·· Gender, Equality, and Sexuality in Scandinavia ·· Glued to the Screen: TV Shows, Norms, and Culture ·· Power of the Mind: Psychology of Performance ·· Psychology of Emerging Adulthood ·· Psychology of Food ·· Psychology of Loneliness ·· Psychology of Political Behavior ·· Public Health and Migration: Access, Politics, and Human Rights ·· Research Assistant: 3 or 6 Credits ·· Sex Education and Sexual Reform in Europe ·· Sexuality in Scandinavian Cinema ·· Swedish Politics and Society ·· Transgender in Scandinavia STUDIO ART ·· Scandinavian Textiles and Fashion Workshop SUSTAINABILITY ·· Smart and Sustainable Cities URBAN STUDIES ·· Smart and Sustainable Cities VISUAL ARTS ·· Nordic Contemporary Art ·· Photo Documentary and Discovery ·· Scandinavian Textiles and Fashion Workshop ·· Ways of Seeing: Storytelling Through Photography
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Live, Meet, & Engage
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I take classes, travel on Study Tours, and go on Field Studies with my peers at DIS, but I also get to have fika on the back deck, go to football matches and take part in family birthday parties with my Homestay. It feels like the best of both worlds!� Emma, Furman University
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Stockholm as Your Home Study alongside the urbanites of Stockholm, who balance life in a vibrant metropolis with the city’s beautiful and serene surroundings. Sweden’s Bustling Capital Find yourself in the midst of a busy crowd of Stockholmers on their way through the day. Wander through the old city where the buildings, cobblestones, and narrow streets take you back to Stockholm’s 13thcentury beginning.
Explore Effortlessly Comprised of 14 islands and a transit system that travels across waterways, Stockholm is well connected. While some corners are characteristically urban, others are natural landscapes – making your next cross-country ski adventure or kayaking afternoon within easy reach.
A Diverse and Progressive City Sweden prides itself on openness, diversity, and equality. As home to the Nobel Prize, Stockholm is a capital led by forward-looking decision makers, artists, innovators, and scholars.
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STOCKHOLM’S NATURAL ENVIRONMENT OFFERS AN ARCHIPELAGO OF 30,000 ISLANDS TO EXPLORE, STRETCHING FROM THE CITY TO THE BALTIC SEA
THE SWEDES RANK AMONG THE TOP THREE BEST NON-NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKERS STOCKHOLM IS THE CAPITAL OF SWEDEN AND THE HUB FOR INDUSTRY, FASHION, POLITICS, AND RESEARCH SECTORS
SWEDEN IS ONE OF THE LARGEST EXPORTERS OF MUSIC IN THE WORLD, WITH DECADES OF INCREDIBLE SUCCESS FROM SONGWRITERS AND PRODUCERS
COMMUTING IN STOCKHOLM IS FAST, EFFICIENT, AND SCENIC! 90 OF THE CITY’S 100 METRO STATIONS ARE DECORATED WITH PAINTINGS, SCULPTURES, AND MOSAICS
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Choose from Four Housing Options Where you live is more than just a bed – it’s a fantastic opportunity for culture engagement. Whether you want to come home to family meals or live among other students, you can choose the best housing option for you.
What to Know About Housing at DIS —— Your housing comes fully furnished —— Meals are included – depending on housing —— DIS covers transportation costs between your housing and class —— We personally match you with your preferenced housing options, reviewing your needs and interests to make the best possible placement
LEARN MORE Find detailed information about each of our housing options at DISabroad.org/sth-housing.
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STUDENT HIGHLIGHT
Living in a Homestay Clara, Ramapo College of New Jersey
My favorite part of the day: Coming home to a cozy semla bun and varm choklad (hot chocolate). “You must eat it the true Swedish way,” said both of my Homestay parents. We put some milk over the stove and poured it around the semla, turning the pastry into a floating island of deliciousness. Though taking the Homestay route definitely demands a decent level of time management skills (hey, it’s a work in progress), I think that for me, coming home to open arms, and sharing stories and laughter with people whom I adore is what matters the most. That is what makes it possible for me to call Sweden my home.”
Homestay Live with local hosts in their home, adapting to each other’s cultures while spending time together
Studentboende Live with local students in student housing
Living & Learning Community Live with other DIS students in theme-based housing
Residential Community Live with other DIS students 59
Meet the Locals Get involved, exchange cultural perspectives, form friendships, practice your Swedish, and end the semester calling Stockholm a hem away from home. —— Sign up to be matched with a local Visiting Host and get to know Swedish culture while sharing your own —— Join a local student sports team, church, or club – we’ll connect you with local contacts —— Network with local interest groups and volunteer your time —— Take part in the New in Town Meetups. Connect with your classmates while exploring local neighborhoods, become more than a tourist, and have a reason to say “tack för idag”
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LET US HELP YOU GET STARTED You will need to go the extra mile to meet the locals – whether you sign up for opportunities through DIS or join local clubs. More Info at DISabroad.org/sth-engage.
—— Study with local students in the common spaces shared by DIS and the Royal College of Music – you can often hear lunchtime concerts —— Attend DIS Evening Seminars to learn more about local perspectives or burning issues happening in Sweden —— Take a Swedish Language and Culture Course to give you confidence in trying out the local language and gaining a context of the culture you call home for four months
STUDENT HIGHLIGHT
Visiting Host Program Julianne, University of Connecticut
Signing up to be matched with a Visiting Host was probably the best thing I did for my time abroad. It’s been really great to have a family that is excited to get to know me and my culture, and are dedicated to showing me all the aspects of Swedish life. We usually meet for dinner once a week, which has also been nice since I’m not the best cook myself, and we usually have a traditional Swedish meal. We have done other activities that we both enjoy like hiking, and I’ve met and gotten to know a lot of their other family members who live in the area. Not to mention, my Host Mom helps me with things that I would have to figure out by myself like grocery shopping and things to know about booking my own trips.”
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Student to Student
How will you meet the locals? Kayla, Skidmore College Athletics play a large role in the Swedish lifestyle, so joining a recreational sports club or taking fitness classes while you’re abroad can present opportunities to meet locals. After four months of playing with the Kungsholmen Basketball team, Kayla shared her experience of the culture, language, and people she met on the court.
My roommate saw sports flyers on the Front Desk at DIS and grabbed the basketball flyer for me. That same day, I emailed the contact person. They invited me to come join one of their practices. Being a part of this team has allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone by being directly a part of a Swedish environment. This team has allowed me to see how friendly and welcoming Swedes are. I can learn more about locals and their culture, which has been a great opportunity because a big part of studying abroad is getting out of the American bubble and exploring the city further by meeting locals and learning more about a new lifestyle.”
BE ABROAD! Really embody and accept this opportunity. There are only about 120 days in a semester abroad, so get out there and make each one better than the next.” Chris, Lafayette College 62
Rebecca, Georgetown University In addition to her courses at DIS, Rebecca went the extra mile to land herself a volunteership at a local organization, the Swedish Society of Medicine.
Going abroad was a big decision for me — I knew that I soon needed professional experience to further my career aspirations, but I also realized that it would be an incredible experience to volunteer abroad.
Finding Swedish Roots Kaden, Haverford College
When I arrived in Sweden, I met a local that worked in Public Health and reached out to her to see if she knew of any opportunities or organizations that would be open to me working with them. She put me in contact with the Swedish Society of Medicine, and they welcomed me on to one of their projects where they could use the extra hand. Sweden has a working culture that is very inclusive and holistic, so even though I was just a volunteer, they really valued what I had to say and gave me a lot of responsibility.”
Kaden was a Student Blogger for DIS and early in their semester, shared the story of searching for their Swedish roots and what discovering more about their ancestor’s story as an emigrant meant for reflecting on their own experience abroad.
Thanks to the help of my Homestay and online church book records, I was able to find out about my great-grandfather’s family. Erik was born in Vara, Sweden, in 1888, exactly 110 years and 1 day before I was born in Minnesota. Although I feel a certain kind of solidarity with Erik, I also can’t even bring myself to imagine how different our situations are. We were the same age when we traveled across the Atlantic – he to what would become my home and I to what was his. We both left alone, unsure of what exactly we would find when we got there. But I, in 2019, knew I would be here for four months to study, and then I would return home (on an airplane) and all my friends and family back home are only a text away. I can hardly even think about how different it would have been to take a boat to a country that I would be spending the rest of my life in, looking for land to farm, and never seeing anyone from home ever again.”
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Application, Tuition, & Aid 64
Never be embarrassed by your financial situation. DIS is aware of low-income students’ need for scholarships, and are willing to help. I have gotten so much support since I’ve been here, and it all started with asking. It’s oftentimes difficult to ask for money, and I spent far too long in my life figuring finances out by myself with no help, and here’s wise Melisa telling you: just ask. The worst thing that can happen is that you’ll get a no. The best thing is some extra money that can make your abroad experience better.” Melisa, Wesleyan University
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Application Details Applying is easy! Start the process as early as possible and we will guide you along the way. Visit DISabroad.org/get-started
ADMISSION CRITERIA To be a successful applicant, you must have an academically compelling reason why DIS is a good fit for you, the self-reliance and maturity necessary to obtain the benefits and embrace the challenges of studying abroad, and a genuine interest in cultural engagement. Specific requirements include: ++ Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 ++ Good academic and disciplinary standing at a four-year college or university in the United States or Canada ++ Typically at least three semesters completed at time of application
Key Semester Dates Fall 2020: August 15 to December 12 Spring 2021: January 16 to May 15 For full semester calendar details, including Study Tour and break dates, visit DISabroad.org/sth-calendar
We are here to help! APPLICATION DEADLINES DIS application deadlines are: ++ April 1: Fall and Academic Year ++ October 15: Spring DIS encourages you to apply as early as possible. Be sure to meet with your university’s study abroad advisors as internal deadlines and process vary by institution.
We will do all we can to make a semester abroad accessible for you! Come chat with us at our table at your school’s study abroad fair, and we encourage you to call or email us at any point in your decision making process – we are available to answer any of your questions. 612-301-7200 | 800-247-3477 dis@umn.edu DIS NORTH AMERICAN OFFICE 2233 University Avenue W, Suite 201 St. Paul, MN 55115
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Follow DIS Student Bloggers Hear what current students are up to in their own words. And better yet, reach out to them directly if you have questions! Find a great mix of current students sharing their stories here: DISabroad.org/sth-blogs
Stay Connected Sign up to receive our newsletters at DISabroad.org/ newsletter, and follow us from afar throughout our current semesters in Stockholm: facebook.com/StudyAbroadDIS youtube.com/StudyAbroadDIS
This week I went on a guided Field Study of the Royal Palace with my Swedish Language and Culture class!
Rain didn’t stop us from exploring London on study tour
@disabroad @disstockholm #disabroad
How did it take five months for someone to tell us pistachio buns exist!?!
My Swedish Host Family is the sweetest!!
Got a little lost today in Stockholm & ended up here
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Tuition & Aid DIS prides itself on comprehensive fees with no hidden costs and generous scholarships. As a non-profit organization, it is our policy to keep the price to a minimum for you, while incorporating several essentials into the cost. Comprehensive Tuition Includes: ++ Course instruction and fees ++ Two Program Study Tours (traveling with your Core Course) ++ Field Studies and guest lectures (integrated into all DIS courses) ++ Course reading materials and textbook rental ++ Final Grade Report ++ Academic administration, advising, and support
$20,495 USD per semester Comprehensive Housing & Student Affairs Fees Include: ++ Furnished room ++ Local transportation between DIS and your housing ++ Meals (depending on housing) ++ Laundry facilities and/or allowance ++ Pre-departure support ++ Group pick-up at the airport on Arrival Day ++ Arrival Workshop ++ Visa advice and assistance ++ Medical, accident, and liability insurance ++ Comprehensive health and safety services, including 24-hour emergency support ++ Housing & Student Affairs advising and support ++ Various cultural and social events
$6,500 USD per semester
Total: $26,995 USD per semester
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E XT E ND & S AVE We offer $3,000 discounts if you wish to spend a full year at DIS. You can extend to study a second semester at DIS Stockholm or Copenhagen. Additionally, if you are a spring student, you can stay for the summer for a discounted fee at DIS Stockholm and/or DIS Copenhagen! DISabroad.org/discounts
Scholarships DIS grants over $2.5 million per year in scholarships. More than half of all students receive financial support from DIS, and many more are using federal or home institution financial aid towards their DIS experience. In order to enable students with limited financial resources to study abroad, DIS grants need-based scholarships of up to $6,000 per semester. Additionally, the DIS Diversity Scholarship is available to students from populations traditionally underrepresented in study abroad including those from diverse ethnic, racial, cultural, economic, sexual orientation and educational backgrounds, and first generation college students.
STUDENT ADVICE
Funding Your Semester Abroad Rigel, University of Tulsa
DIS Scholarships ++ DIS Scholarship ++ DIS Diversity Scholarship ++ Jacob Buksti Memorial Scholarship ++ The Anders Uhrskov Leadership Scholarship
Additional Study Abroad Scholarships ++ ++ ++ ++
DiversityAbroad.com Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) Gilman Scholarship Upper Midwest Rebild Scholarship
LEARN MORE DISabroad.org/scholarships
One of the biggest obstacles that people foresee to study abroad is how one will fund it. At the start of the planning process, it can seem daunting and even difficult to imagine. However, study abroad can be pretty feasible. Look into how your school deals with tuition and if your current scholarships are still eligible to be applied abroad. For me that was a great help. I can’t emphasize the value of starting early enough. Everyone that knows me knows I’m a serial procrastinator and I will wait for the last minute to do just about everything. But starting as early as you can really gives you a jump on the whole thing, from choosing a program to finding scholarships that you may be eligible for.”
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DIS Partner Institutions DIS works in partnership with the following colleges and universities. Not all institutions approve all DIS programs/ locations. Students from other North American colleges and universities are welcome to apply. LEARN MORE
IOWA Grinnell College Iowa State University Luther College
For more information on DIS partner institutions, visit DISabroad.org/partners.
KANSAS Kansas State University University of Kansas
CANADA
KENTUCKY Transylvania University University of Kentucky
BRITISH COLUMBIA University of British Columbia
UNITED STATES ARKANSAS University of Arkansas CALIFORNIA Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo California Lutheran University California State University System Claremont McKenna College NewSchool of Architecture & Design Occidental College Point Loma Nazarene University Pomona College Santa Clara University Scripps College University of California, Berkeley University of California, San Diego University of Redlands University of San Francisco Whittier College COLORADO Colorado College Colorado State University University of Colorado at Boulder
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INDIANA Ball State University DePauw University Indiana University Purdue University University of Notre Dame
CONNECTICUT Connecticut College Trinity College University of Connecticut University of Hartford Wesleyan University Yale University DELAWARE University of Delaware DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA American University George Washington University Georgetown University Howard University FLORIDA Lynn University University of Florida GEORGIA Emory University Spelman College University of Georgia HAWAII University of Hawaii at Manoa ILLINOIS Bradley University Illinois Wesleyan University Knox College Lake Forest College Northwestern University University of Illinois at Chicago University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Wheaton College
LOUISIANA Tulane University MAINE Bates College Bowdoin College Colby College MARYLAND Goucher College Johns Hopkins University Loyola University Maryland Maryland Institute, College of Art University of Maryland, Baltimore County University of Maryland, College Park MASSACHUSETTS Amherst College Babson College Brandeis University Endicott College Harvard University Mount Holyoke College Northeastern University Olin College of Engineering Simmons College Smith College Stonehill College Tufts University University of Massachusetts, Amherst Wellesley College Wheaton College Williams College
MICHIGAN Central Michigan University Kalamazoo College University of Michigan MINNESOTA Augsburg College Carleton College Gustavus Adolphus College Macalester College Saint Catherine University Saint Olaf College University of Minnesota, Twin Cities University of Saint Thomas Winona State University MISSOURI Drury University University of Missouri Washington University in St. Louis MONTANA Montana State University - Bozeman NEBRASKA University of Nebraska-Lincoln NEW HAMPSHIRE University of New Hampshire NEW JERSEY Princeton University Ramapo College of New Jersey Rowan University NEW YORK Alfred University Barnard College Colgate University College of Staten Island, CUNY Columbia University Cornell University Fordham University Hamilton College Hobart and William Smith Colleges John Jay College of Criminal Justice Pratt Institute Rochester Institute of Technology Saint Lawrence University Sarah Lawrence College Siena College Skidmore College Syracuse University University at Albany, SUNY University of Rochester Vassar College
NORTH CAROLINA Davidson College Duke University Elon University Guilford College Meredith College North Carolina State University University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Charlotte Wake Forest University Wingate University OHIO Case Western Reserve University College of Wooster Denison University John Carroll University Kenyon College Miami University Oberlin College Ohio State University Wittenberg University OKLAHOMA University of Tulsa OREGON Portland State University University of Oregon PENNSYLVANIA Bryn Mawr College Bucknell University Carnegie Mellon University Dickinson College Franklin and Marshall College Gettysburg College Haverford College Lafayette College Lehigh University Muhlenberg College Pennsylvania State University Saint Joseph’s University Swarthmore College Jefferson (Philadelphia University + Thomas Jefferson University) University of Pittsburgh University of Scranton Villanova University RHODE ISLAND Brown University Providence College Rhode Island School of Design University of Rhode Island
SOUTH CAROLINA College of Charleston Furman University University of South Carolina Wofford College TENNESSEE Belmont University Rhodes College The University of the South University of Tennessee Vanderbilt University TEXAS Rice University Saint Edward’s University Southern Methodist University Southwestern University Texas Tech University Trinity University University of Texas at Arlington University of Texas at Dallas University of Texas at Austin UTAH University of Utah VERMONT Bennington College Middlebury College Saint Michael’s College University of Vermont VIRGINIA College of William and Mary Longwood University University of Richmond University of Virginia Virginia Tech Washington and Lee University WASHINGTON Gonzaga University Pacific Lutheran University Seattle University University of Puget Sound University of Washington Washington State University Whitman College WISCONSIN Beloit College Marquette University University of Wisconsin - Madison
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Reykjavik
Helsinki
Stoc holm
Edinb burg gh
Du ubllin
Berlin London don
Paris Gen nev va
Lisb bon Athens
Stockholm as your home, Europe as your classroom DISabroad.org/Stockholm 612 301 7200 | 800 247 3477 dis@umn.edu