How would you like to earn an actual doctorate in metal? It’s now possible.
I know that the last thing on anyone’s mind is going back to school–it’s waaaaay too soon to even think about that–but I’d be remiss if I didn’t bring this to your attention.
If you’re in a position to go to graduate school but haven’t settled on a specific area of study to get that Ph.D, may I direct your attention to what’s going on at the University of Newcastle in Australia? The school is offering a Ph.D in the social geography of heavy metal.
This is legit. But what exactly does this entail?
The first thing you should know is that your course load will focus almost exclusively on the metal scene in Australia. I quote:
”While unique scenes have evolved across the globe, the bulk of Heavy Metal’s bands have originated within countries in the northern latitudes. Australia is uniquely positioned within this global evolution, owing to its historical connection to the United Kingdom and shared cultural affinities with its colonial originator.
“While remote from the geographical heart of Heavy Metal culture, Australia has developed its own unique and passionate approach, producing a number of high profile bands.”
The course description goes on to say that the following questions will be examined:
- What is the relationship between the cultural evolution of Heavy Metal in Australia and colonialism?
- Is Heavy Metal in Australia largely a white phenomenon? What has been the response to diversity within the scene?
- And how is gender negotiated within the Metal scene in Australia?
Now the bad news. There’s only space for two Australian candidates and just one international student. And then there’s tuition: $28,000 per year.
Still, wouldn’t be cool to have an actual doctorate in metal?
Via Kerrang
