I've heard of a few ridiculous classes in my day, but I think Starcraft Theory at UC Berkley just might take the cake. The course is based around a game that came out ten years ago, yet has retained its awesomeness to this day, and apparently enough so where it merits academic study. 

So what exactly is the courseload for Starcraft Theory? Hydralisk biology? Mineral chemical compound studies? Well, let's just take a look at the syllabus:

Course Workload:
Each week, students must submit 2 replays of games they played and are willing to analyze in depth. Students are expected to explain the flow of the game, identify the time of several positive and negative moves, and show an understanding of how to overcome mistakes in these replays. Some replays will be reviewed by the class together.

 

(Tentative) Course Outline:
Week 1: Orientation / Competitive Gaming Industry Overview / StarCraft Boom in Korea
Week 2: Units, Strength, Weakness, Attributes, Stats
Week 3: Fighting Micro and Unit Use
Week 4: Army Movement and Positioning
Week 5: Expo and Macro
Week 6: Building Placement and Base Layout
Week 7: Scouting and Counters
Week 8: Harass
Week 9: Overloading the Enemy, Multi-plays
Week 10: Economic Basis, Micro vs Macro
Week 11: Timing and Evaluation of Resources
Week 12: Deception
Week 13: Mindset and Series Play
Week 14: Tournament

 

Grading Breakdown:
Final Project: 40%
Replay submissions and other homework: 40%
Attendance and Participation: 20%

 

Final Project:
There will be a final project where students will present and explain their contribution to the Starcraft Community. This may take the form of an essay detailing new theory or calculations, or an in-depth analysis of a significant game. Whichever final project is chosen will be displayed or published on a public forum for peer criticism.

Wow. Does this not sound like the greatest class ever? I mean, I'm excited because I spent the formative years of my youth obssesed with this game, but even non-fans would probably leap at the opportunity to sign up for a class where your homework is submitting replays of a video game match you played.

These lectures better go on YouTube. I can't wait for Week 12: Deception. Go Arbiter Recall!

Yeah I'm a dork. **** you.