CHESTER, Pa. (CBS) — Queen Bey is heading to a Pennsylvania college this fall, and it’s not for the reason you might think.
Widener University in Delaware County is introducing a brand new freshman course focused on none other than Beyoncé.
The course will explore the following topics: continuing cultural and social significance of Beyoncé as a source of economic empowerment, feminism and Afrocentricity, a spokesperson for Widener said.
The course is taught by Dr. Richard Cooper, director of the Bachelor of Social Work program and coordinator of African American Studies at Widener University.
Cooper said that during this course, fans/students will use their knowledge of the Grammy Award winner to analyze the singer’s identity and social impact on a deeper level.
“Incoming freshmen are certainly familiar with some of Beyoncé’s amazing work, including the latest project titled Cowboy Carter. “However, part of the dynamic growth process that comes from liberal arts education experiences is to begin with what students already understand as an initial starting point,” Cooper said.
“By re-examining and juxtaposing the content studied, students are challenged to broaden and more deeply understand the multiple meanings of Beyoncé’s work.”
Students enrolled in the course will look at Beyoncé’s music, image, and artistic expression as a reflection of the intersectionality of race, gender, and identity.
Students will cover topics such as Queen Bey’s influence on African American women, her views on body positivity and self-love, plus her advocacy work for social and political change.
While Cowboy Carter has no upcoming performances scheduled on campus, fans interested in learning more about the Renaissance queen is that still possible.
