College Students In Minnesota Are Earning Credits for Studying Taylor Swift—The Future of Academia?
Forget traditional lectures—today’s students are analyzing Taylor Swift’s lyrics as part of their college curriculum. 🌐 #News #Minnesota #Education #Parenting
ST. PAUL, MN – You’ve spent years saving, planning, and dreaming about the moment your child heads off to college. But what would you do if you found out they were taking a class… on Taylor Swift? While you might have expected them to study engineering, literature, or business, it turns out the pop icon is now making her mark in academia. At universities in Minnesota and North Dakota, students are diving deep into Swift’s lyrics, exploring her impact on culture, identity, and even poetry. It’s a new era of learning—and yes, Taylor Swift is part of the curriculum.
At North Dakota State University (NDSU), students are diving deep into the world of Swift’s lyrics as part of an English course called “The Poetry of Rock.” The course explores her songs not as mere pop music, but as serious poetry that resonates with listeners on personal and cultural levels.
NDSU isn’t the only school tapping into the influence of pop culture in the classroom. At Minnesota State University, Moorhead, another course focuses on Swift’s role in modern media and her impact on social platforms like TikTok.
The Poetry of Taylor Swift at NDSU
At NDSU, students are engaging with Taylor Swift’s music in an academic setting, analyzing her lyrics and their literary qualities. The course, “The Poetry of Rock,” does not focus on traditional subjects like grammar or classic American literature, but instead examines how contemporary music—specifically Swift’s work—can be considered poetry. Students explore the themes of love, identity, and societal expectations that are woven throughout her lyrics.
Professor Adam Goldwyn, who leads the course, compares Swift’s writing to that of past cultural icons like Bob Dylan and The Beatles. He encourages students to see her as one of the most influential voices in modern American poetry. Swift’s lyrics, according to Goldwyn, transcend music and resonate deeply with her audience, creating conversations that are relevant and meaningful for today’s world.
Why Taylor Swift?
Taylor Swift’s influence extends far beyond the music charts. Her lyrics have become a medium for discussing personal and societal issues, making her an ideal subject for academic study. The course encourages students to think critically about Swift’s work, considering how her songs serve as a reflection of culture, especially for young people navigating complex emotions and experiences.
For students, analyzing Swift’s music goes beyond enjoying a catchy tune; it’s about understanding her impact on gender, personal identity, and cultural norms. Many students find her ability to articulate feelings of empowerment and struggle particularly relatable. This class not only invites students to reflect on their personal connections to Swift’s music but also allows them to explore how she has shaped public discussions around women’s roles in music and society.
Pop Culture Meets Academia
NDSU’s “The Poetry of Rock” is just one example of how universities are embracing pop culture as a lens for academic exploration. Similar courses are being offered at other institutions, such as Minnesota State University, Moorhead, where a class delves into Swift’s influence alongside trends in TikTok and reality TV. These classes are part of a larger movement in higher education to study contemporary media and its broader effects on society.
As more students and professors recognize the cultural weight of modern pop music, institutions are incorporating these discussions into their curriculum. By analyzing the works of artists like Taylor Swift, students gain insight into the evolving nature of culture and the power of music to influence both individual identity and societal values.
Pop Poetry, or a Waste of Time?
Taylor Swift’s music has become more than just a soundtrack for many; it’s a powerful medium for exploring identity, societal issues, and personal growth. Courses like “The Poetry of Rock” show that her influence is significant enough to be discussed in academic settings, allowing students to reflect on how her songs represent the thoughts and struggles of a generation. Through this academic lens, Taylor Swift’s lyrics are elevated from simple pop hits to pieces of poetry with deep cultural meaning.
What do you think about Taylor Swift being studied in the classroom? Share your thoughts in the comments—would you support your child taking a class like this?
RELATED TOPICS: Minnesota | North Dakota | Kids and Family | Celebs | Music
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
