Pre-semester course
Copenhagen Past & Present w/ Danish Language
A pre-semester course for all international students at the University of Copenhagen (BA level, 7.5 ECTS credits).
The course runs from 7 - 27 Aug. 2023, including the examination.
Learn more about where you are
This course offers all international students at the University of Copenhagen an exciting and comprehensive introduction to the history of Copenhagen and the Danish language. Over three weeks, students will learn about the city’s history from its foundation in the early Middle Ages, when Copenhagen was just a fishing village, and through a millennium of history up to modern Copenhagen, often ranked as one of the best cities in the world when measured by the quality of life. This course is a perfect introduction for students who wish to gain a solid understanding of the cultural, political, economic and social history of the Danish capital. The course consists of a series of lectures taught at the University, supplemented with excursions out in the streets of Copenhagen.
The course is open to all international students and assumes no prior knowledge of Danish history or language. The course language is English.
Learn how to order your coffee in Danish
As well as covering the rich history of Copenhagen, the course also includes several lessons in Danish for beginners, where you will be introduced to the basics of the Danish language including conversation, grammar and pronunciation. After just 3 weeks with 3 x 2 face-to-face lessons and 3 online lessons per week, you will be able to present yourself, describe where you live, and learn how to order your coffee – all in Danish. You will also be introduced to some of the Danish terminology related to the cultural content of the course.
The course is an intensive full-time three-week course. Students should also expect to do some preparation before the classes.
At the end of the course, each student will submit a 4-5 page essay with a set question which will be the official examination for the course. Students have two days to complete the assignment, and the essay will be marked either pass or fail.
Read about the pre-semester and how to enrol.
I just want to say again I really loved the course and I would definitely recommend it. I'm super happy I was able to extend my exchange by a month and was able to meet so many new people through it. All the teachers were great and were always happy to help you out
The course was extremely helpful to settle in Copenhagen, understand the study and living environment better and get to know people who also want to discover the city in a comfortable athmosphere.
“It was a really good way to meet people and make friends. I feel a lot better starting the semester knowing I have friends to spend time with. All of us having the same schedule for 3 weeks allowed us to hang out outside of class everyday.”
