SLI Classes
The Scandinavian Language Institute was founded in Seattle over 45 years ago in 1978 by Ed Egerdahl. As then, SLI continues to offer language instruction classes to the general public in various levels of Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish. In future, we hope to include Icelandic classes, as well.
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Class levels generally include one or more of the following each quarter: Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert. These are scheduled each quarter throughout the school year:
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Classes take place at various times, often in both daytime and evening. Nearly all classes meet online. In addition, our instructors offer a variety of specialty classes and book club opportunities.
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More than just an educational facility, we offer many special services to both students and the general public including a marching group in the 17th of May parade in Ballard each year. Come join us! (You too, Swedes, Danes, and Icelanders!)
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The Scandinavian Language Institute, a Washington State non-profit corporation and tax-exempt organization, is offering classes to students all across the US.
First Quarter: Sept/Oct - Nov/Dec
Second Quarter: Jan - Mar
Third Quarter: Mar/April - May/June
Some classes may be offered in the summer, as well, depending on the instructors' schedules.
SLI Instructors
SLI Directors
Ed Egerdahl
Founder, Former Director, Norwegian Instructor
In 1978, Edward Egerdahl founded the Norwegian Language Learning Center, and has served as board president and director of the Scandinavian Language Institute since its incorporation in 1980.
Ed graduated in 1977 from the Scandinavian Department of the University of Washington earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Norwegian Language and Literature, and Education. Ed has been teaching Norwegian language classes professionally at various locations in the Seattle area since 1978.
Melissa Lucas
Director &
Danish Instructor
Ed is handing the baton over to Melissa during the 2023-24 year. After teaching Danish at SLI for nearly 20 years, she is excited to see classes growing in number, new cultural classes developing, and more students joining in from across the country!
