Originally published by CBSNews.com. Written by Jessica Deschowitz.
A college professor is taking eager students on a journey through space and time with a new course dedicated to "Doctor Who."
Syracuse University professor Anthony Rotolo is launching what he calls a "Doctor Who (Un)Class" that will explore the history, evolution and cultural impact of the hit BBC sci-fi series, now starring Peter Capaldi as the Twelfth Doctor.
Rotolo -- who also teaches a "Star Trek" course -- is calling this an "un-class" because it's not an official SU course (though students at the university can register the course as an independent study if they wish to receive academic credit for it), but, he told Syracuse.com, "I do hope to make this an official course for SU in the future."
"I was inspired to put this course together because it is my belief that learning can and should be fun, and while not all courses can be about television series, some can!" he added. "My 'Star Trek' course has been a tremendous success, and I am proud to say that it has inspired countless students to find their path in media and even science and technology fields. As a teacher, there is nothing more important than that, and nothing more rewarding than hearing from a student that your course has had an impact in his or her life."
The class is open to students free of charge (and, he notes, free of homework!) and will feature lectures spanning the history of "Doctor Who," screenings of new and classic episodes, rare clips, a real-time Twitter discussion, trivia contests and other surprises, according to Rotolo's website.
"#WhoClass is a whole new way to learn about and experience Doctor Who, whether you are a longtime 'Whovian' or a total newbie looking for a crash course on The Doctor and his travels in time," the course description adds.
The class will take place on Mondays from 6-8 p.m. during the university's spring 2015 semester beginning in January. Sadly, it will take place on SU's campus and space is limited, so if you can't make it you can always just follow the @WhoClassaccount on Twitter.