Duolingo.com has just announced that a new online course is in the works which might not seem like big news until you realize that course is called Klingon for English speakers. Yes that’s right everybody’s favourite fake language from the Star Trek world is getting its own course. It turns out that’s not the only strange course out there.
Check out some of these other unusual courses that, let’s be honest, you kind of wish you were enrolled in.
1) The Simpsons and Philosophy
University of California, Berkeley
What better way to learn about culture, philosophy and social norms than watching The Simpsons? Yup, Springfield’s finest has teamed up with University of California to create its own course. Wondering why Marge’s hair is so blue? Now is your chance to find out.
2) Chosen: Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Face it, we all love Buffy. Now she has a course of her own featuring intellectual readings and an in-depth look at the series. Why wouldn’t you sign up?!
3) LSPA 1015 Japanese Swordsmanship
The George Washington University
Finally, your chance to fulfil that secret dream of becoming a ninja can now be a reality! George Washington University in DC offers this course as a way to learn about Japanese fighting history, samurai warriors and of course how to become the ultimate swordsman.
4) PHIL-180 Philosophy and Star Trek
Out of all the fandoms to have their own university course, somehow this one seems the least surprising. The world of Star Trek has always had some of the most dedicated fans. Now with a course at Georgetown University focusing on topics like time travel and artificial intelligence, Trekkies everywhere can rejoice. Sounds like a good sister course to you Klingon lessons.
5) South Park and Political Correctness
What’s the best way to get students to debate honestly about issues in pop culture? Simple, have South Park do it first. A professor from CUNY’s Brooklyn College decided that why waste time learning from a textbook when using a cartoon as curriculum works way better. But hey we’re not complaining, after all we should respect his “authori-tay”.
6) Philosophy in the Twilight Zone
Yes yes, we’ve all travelled to that “other dimension” on the small screen but what about in the classroom? Indiana State University offers the opportunity to study the ethics, moral philosophy and a bunch of other topics related to the classic show. Prepare to enter the Twilight Zone… Philosophy 101.
7) Online Games: Literature New Media and Narrative
Although this is probably the course that SOUNDS the most normal, it is actually not. In reality this class revolves entirely around The Lord Of the Rings Online. You’d learn all the essentials like, the history of MMO’s, adapting a movie into a game, and what makes a proper ending. Oh and if you’re wondering, yes you’re homework does involve playing video games.
8) SW290 Surviving the Coming Zombie Apocalypse
Since the zombie apocalypse is obviously on its way, it seems only appropriate that you should prepare while you still can. Thankfully Michigan University is here to teach us all about the do’s and don’ts of surviving in the new world. Things like survival tips, avoiding raiders, and of course the art of killing zombies are all part of the curriculum. So yeah, all the important stuff.
9) ENG11.301 Wasting Time on the Internet
At this point you’re probably thinking, “Why would I need a course on this? I’m already a pro.” To be honest, you’re probably right. But this class casts “wasting time” under a whole new light. With studies about recuperation of boredom, situationism and time-wasting through critical texts you’re mindless internet surfing might finally be productive. Wait is that a cat climbing a Christmas tree?!
10) The Science of Harry Potter
Frostburg State University (Maryland)
Frostburg State University might not be Hogwarts, but it’s the next best thing. The course takes an in-depth look at the novels and theories behind things like anti-gravity, Fluffy the three-headed dog, and much more. Bonus: the professor may or may not dress up as Albus Dumbledore every day for class…
11) The Science of Superheroes
Ever wonder about the physics behind how Superman flies? How about the nature behind spidey-sense? Well here’s your chance to find out! The University of California gives you the opportunity to take a closer look at the science behind some of our favourite puzzling super hero abilities. The Incredible Hulk, we’re lookin’ at you!
12) The Hunger Games: Class Politics and Marketing
At this point most people have envisioned themselves as Katniss Everdeen at least once so it’s only natural that there’s an entire course dedicated to her life. American University is Washington, DC offers an in-depth look at pop culture through Panam’s very own girl on fire.
13) CS 193P iPhone Application Development
Can’t get enough of your new iPhone? Well then have we got good news for you. Stanford University will give you the 411 on everything from navigation to how to eventually create your own app. Just think, you’ll never hear the phrase “Put your phone away during class” ever again!
14) BIOL 110 Biology of Jurassic Park
With the upcoming release of “Jurassic World” what better time to brush up on your knowledge of dinosaurs in the modern day?! This class at Hood College provides you everything you need to know about the biology of dinosaurs, the science behind recreation and of course the best ways to escape their deadly jaws.
15) Game of Thrones: Television and Medieval History
History can sometimes get a little boring… unless you involve murder, betrayal, and oh ya, dragons! That’s right the massive HBO series now has its own course at Northern Illinois University. When your homework involves watching Daenerys Targaryen kick ass, just promise you’ll save us a seat.
