Local 12: Local universities open Taylor Swift courses

UC faculty interviewed on classes that focus on Taylor Swift

Since spring 2023, the University of Cincinnati has offered a general music class at the College Conservatory of Music that delves into Taylor Swift’s music and lyrical talents but now UC is offering two more classes that study the pop icon's writing and societal themes. 

The new courses are in philosophy and English and will begin this fall.

The courses —open to all UC students — were reported in a news story by Local 12 that was picked up by 100 outlets nationally. Local 12 reporter Paige Barnes came to UC’s campus to interview the instructors Katie Monthie, a graduate student in English, and Melissa Jacquart, a professor of philosophy.  

 "I think we neglect to recognize that there is importance to examining the everyday in a very serious academic manner. Sometimes, it also makes academic work more fun," Monthie said as she explained the purpose of her course: "Topics in Writing Studies: Taylor Swift."

Melissa Jacquart, assistant professor of philosophy, said her course will look at the themes of love, revenge and friendship.

Watch the Local 12 interview.

The UC courses were also covered by other news outlets.

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Featured image at top courtesy of UnSplash/Omid Armin. 

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