Photo credit: Taylor Swift

The University of the Philippines (UP) has announced the introduction of a new course titled "Celebrity Studies: Taylor Swift in Focus," as part of its Special Topics in Broadcasting program for the second semester of the academic year 2023-2024.

Under the code BMAS 196 WWX, the course, officially named "Celebrity Studies: Taylor Swift in Focus," will delve into the multifaceted aspects of Taylor Swift's celebrity persona. Dr. Cherish Brillon, a renowned expert in the field of Broadcast Communication, has been assigned to lead the class, aiming to explore the intricate relationship between Taylor Swift, media, and societal elements.

The course description outlines its focus on the conception, construction, and performance of Taylor Swift as a celebrity. Dr. Brillon's curriculum promises an in-depth analysis of how Swift can be used as a lens to understand and interpret various societal dynamics, including class, politics, gender, race, and fantasies of success and mobility.

"The goal of the course is to provide students with a nuanced understanding of Taylor Swift's impact on our cultural landscape and, more importantly, how she reflects and influences broader societal narratives," explains Dr. Brillon.

With the rise of celebrity culture and its intersection with media, the course is designed to encourage critical thinking and analytical skills among students. Through the exploration of Taylor Swift's career, the class aims to dissect the mechanisms through which celebrities shape and are shaped by the cultural, political, and social currents of our time.

UP's Department of Broadcast Communication believes that the inclusion of this specialized course aligns with the university's commitment to offering diverse and relevant academic experiences to its students.