Frostburg State University in Maryland, USA offers “The Science of Harry Potter’ as an honors seminar. The class discusses topics such as whether or not Fluffy the three headed dog could be explained by genetic engineering or if antigravity research could actually produce a flying broomstick. The course is modeled after (and uses as a textbook) the book "The Science of Harry Potter: How Magic Really Works," by Roger Highfield. The class is geared towards non-science majors.And you’re wrong, if you think it’s just American colleges and universities that are offering weird and wonderful courses – UK universities are doing the same, at least according to The Independent (Webapge http://www.independent.co.uk/news/education/education-news/10-weird-and-wonderful-university-courses-2074911.html, posted yesterday). Known as one of the more traditional British universities, Durham offers a unit in 'Harry Potter and the Age of Illusion' as part of Education Studies. Students can look at topics such as 'Muggles and magic: the escape from the treadmill and the recovery of enchantment' and 'Gryffindor and Slytherin: prejudice and intolerance in the classroom'.
Queen's University Belfast offers an open learning course in 'Feel the Force: How to Train in the Jedi Way' which teaches the real-life psychological techniques behind Jedi mind tricks, as well as examining the wider issues behind the Star Wars universe, like balance, destiny, dualism, fatherhood and fascism.
Embedded within the MA in History at Nottingham University is 'The Robin Hood Studies Pathway'. Students can 'learn about the tales and ballads of one of England's most enduring medieval heroes.' They'll also get the chance to undertake an extended research project on a related work.
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