Associate & Bachelor Degree Programs
HIES undergraduate study provides a progressive foundation in Eddic literature, Old Norse religious history, language, ethics, textual interpretation, law, archaeology, character development, leadership, and cultural stewardship.
The Associate of Eddic Studies and Bachelor of Eddic Studies form an integrated undergraduate pathway grounded in careful study of primary sources and the intellectual and religious heritage of the Old Norse tradition.
Program in Development: The A.E.S. and B.E.S. are currently in planning and development. HIES is not presently accepting applications or enrolling students in either undergraduate degree program.
60 Semester Credit Hours
12 Courses • 5 Credits Each
Standard Completion: 2 Years
The Associate of Eddic Studies provides a foundational education in Eddic literature, Old Norse religious history, ethics, language, textual interpretation, law, runes, archaeology, and sacred material culture. It is designed both as a complete associate-level religious degree and as the first 60 credits of the Bachelor of Eddic Studies.
120 Semester Credit Hours
24 Courses • 5 Credits Each
Standard Completion: 4 Years
The Bachelor of Eddic Studies provides a comprehensive undergraduate religious education progressing from foundational study of Eddic sources, Old Norse history, language, religion, law, and archaeology into religious formation, leadership, teaching, ministry, and stewardship of the Old Norse religious tradition.
The A.E.S. is fully integrated into the B.E.S. curriculum. Students complete the same BES-coded courses and academic requirements during the first 60 credits of undergraduate study. A student who completes the A.E.S. and chooses to continue may progress directly into Years III and IV of the B.E.S., subject to applicable degree requirements.
Year I — Foundations: Wisdom & Tradition
Year II — Understanding: Language, Sources & Interpretation
Year III — Formation: Character, Leadership & Religious Community
Year IV — Stewardship
Years I–II: constitute the 60-credit A.E.S. curriculum.
Years I–IV: constitute the complete 120-credit B.E.S. curriculum.
For detailed courses and requirements, see the curriculum pages.
Source Mastery: Read and interpret Eddic and related Old Norse sources carefully with attention to context, transmission, translation, and evidence.
Historical Understanding: Interpret the Old Norse world responsibly through historical, literary, linguistic, legal, and archaeological evidence.
Religious Understanding: Develop informed understanding of Old Norse religious tradition, theology, ethics, ritual, and sacred worldview.
Character & Leadership: Cultivate judgment, responsibility, character, service, and leadership appropriate to religious and communal life.
Communication: Develop clarity in writing, teaching, interpretation, and discussion.
HIES undergraduate education is intended to cultivate careful scholarship, sound judgment, responsible interpretation, character, and habits of leadership and service. Students progress from foundational knowledge toward increasingly integrated study of sources, tradition, religious community, and stewardship.
Is HIES enrolling students?
No. The A.E.S. and B.E.S. are currently in development. HIES is not presently accepting applications or enrolling students in either undergraduate degree program.
Is HIES accredited or state-approved?
HIES and its degree programs are currently in development. Information regarding institutional authorization, approvals, and accreditation status will be published before enrollment opens.
Will there be online learning?
HIES is being developed for asynchronous online education through its dedicated learning platform. Availability will be announced when operational.
How can I learn more?
Explore the Institute and the Open Library, and feel free to contact HIES with questions.