How to master stupidity

The University of Virginia in the US is offering a four-week English literature course on the TV series Game of Thrones.

We take a look at 10 other degrees or courses inspired by popular culture.

David Beckham studies at Staffordshire University, UK

It explores sociological implications behind society's obsession with footballers like Beckham.

Zombies in Popular Media at Columbia College, Chicago

It explores the history, significance and representation of the zombie in horror and fantasy texts.

Philosophy of Star Trek, at Georgetown University, Washington

"What better way to do philosophy, but to watch Star Trek, read philosophy and hash it all out in class?" says the team behind it.

Harry Potter and The Age of Illusion, at the University of Durham, UK

One of the listed aims of this module is to "consider the relevance of Harry Potter to the education system in the 21st century".

Feel the Force: How to Train in the Jedi Way at Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland

This open learning course offers aspiring Jedi Knights a chance to learn some of the psychology behind the Jedi mind-control tricks seen in the Star Warsfilms.

The Beatles, Popular Music and Society at Liverpool Hope University, UK

This MA course explores the role The Beatles and their music play in constructing regional identities, and looks at "popular music as a discursive evocation of place".

Other courses:

• Invented Languages: Klingon and beyond at the University of Texas, US.
• Arguing with Judge Judy at the University of California, Berkeley, US.
• Gaga for Gaga: Sex, Gender and Identity at the University of Virginia, US.
• Politicising Beyoncé, at Rutgers University, New Jersey, US.