The Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Tripos (known as ASNC) offers a unique opportunity to study the history, languages and literatures of the peoples of the British Isles, and Scandinavia, mainly in the early medieval period. It is unique in that there are few other courses which allow you, for example, not only to study Anglo-Saxon history, but at the same time to be able to read - in the original - the writings of the Anglo-Saxons, and of their neighbours the Irish and Welsh, as well as studying the handwriting of the manuscripts which these peoples have left us. The course should appeal as much to anyone with an interest in early languages as to those whose enthusiasm is for history. Although ASNC might seem so specialised that it will leave you with a degree that does not suggest any particular career, it does in fact provide a diverse, broad education, which will sharpen your analytical powers, teach you how to construct an effective argument, and refine your appreciation of literature. Former ASNC students have gone on to a wide variety of jobs in teaching, the civil service, law, journalism, business, publishing, the police, museum and library work, as well as to an academic career.

Robinson College is one of only ten colleges to have a Director of Studies in Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic who is a Fellow of the College, which means that you will have someone taking care of your studies and generally around for help and advice, who is actually part of the community you will be living in. You will, of course, be taught for many of your papers by Fellows of other colleges.

Entry requirements

No specific subjects required

Written Work

Two essays that have already been assessed by your teacher and which can be on either historical, literary or linguistic topics.

Admission Assessments

No assessment required

Director of Studies - Professor R C Love

ASNC Open Day

The Open Day is an occasion when you can meet the teaching staff and some of the current students, and hear first-hand what the Tripos is about in an informal atmosphere.

Enquiries about the Open Day should be directed to the ASNC Departmental secretary by phone on 01223 335079, email at asnc@hermes.cam.ac.uk or by post at the following address:

Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic,
9 West Road,
Cambridge
CB3 9DP

Information about the Open Day can also be found on the Department website. 

Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic - Further information

Department website  (Information for prospective students.)

ASNC (Information on the Cambridge Admissions website)

For incoming 1st year students, the following reading list will be helpful: https://www.asnc.cam.ac.uk/currentstudents/undergraduates/reading-lists/intro-reading.htm

Last updated  April 2024