Drake Launches New College Course in Canada
Text
Canada College has announced a new academic course examining the career trajectory of rapper Drake, according to a report from Hip-Hop News, Rap Music – XXL. The class, titled “Drake: Artistry, Industry Influence, and Cultural Impact,” will debut in the fall 2026 semester and is part of the institution’s expanding music studies program.
Text
The course syllabus, obtained by XXL, outlines a curriculum covering Drake’s early career in Toronto, his evolution as a multi-platform artist, and his role in shaping modern hip-hop and pop music. Topics include his 2016 album “Views,” which topped the Billboard 200 for 11 consecutive weeks, and his 2023 collaboration with 21 Savage on “Her Loss,” which generated over 100 million streams in its first week. Students will also analyze Drake’s business ventures, such as his OVO Sound record label and partnerships with brands like Nike.
Text
Canada College’s vice president of academic affairs, Dr. Linda Nguyen, stated in a press release that the course aims to “demystify the intersection of artistry and commerce in the music industry.” The program is designed for students majoring in music, media, and cultural studies, with enrollment limited to 50 participants. Classes will include guest lectures from industry professionals, including a scheduled appearance by Drake’s longtime producer, Noah “40” Shebib.
Text
The decision to dedicate a course to Drake reflects broader academic interest in pop culture as a subject of scholarly study. In 2024, the University of Michigan launched a similar course on Beyoncé’s cultural influence, while Stanford University has previously offered seminars on the impact of streaming platforms. Canada College’s program is notable for its focus on a single artist’s career, rather than a general overview of hip-hop history.
Text
Drake’s inclusion in academic curricula follows years of debate about his legacy. Critics have highlighted his “cultural appropriation” allegations and legal disputes, while supporters emphasize his role in popularizing Canadian music globally. The course will require students to submit a final project analyzing a specific aspect of Drake’s work, such as his lyrical themes or business strategies.
Text
XXL reported that the course has already generated significant student interest, with over 300 applications received within the first week of registration. Canada College officials declined to comment on whether the program will be expanded to other artists in future semesters.
Text
Drake, whose real name is Aubrey Graham, has maintained a presence in both music and media since the early 2000s. His 2022 album “Her Loss” with 21 Savage earned a Grammy nomination, and his 2023 single “Her Loss” featuring 21 Savage reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The rapper has also appeared in films such as “Dewey Cox” (2008) and “The Last King of Scotland” (2006), though his acting career has remained secondary to his music.
Text
The Canada College course is scheduled to run from September 2026 to December 2026, with classes held twice weekly. Students will also engage with primary sources, including interviews from outlets such as Rolling Stone and Pitchfork, as well as archival footage from Drake’s 2018 Madison Square Garden concert.
Text
Industry analysts suggest that the course could influence how future generations perceive Drake’s contributions to music. “This reflects a shift in how we evaluate artists—not just as entertainers, but as cultural phenomena,” said Ryan Duff, a music historian at the University of Toronto. “It’s a way to contextualize his work within broader social and economic trends.”
Text
Canada College’s program joins a growing list of academic initiatives exploring pop culture. In 2025, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) introduced a course on the history of rap music, while the University of London has offered seminars on the global impact of K-pop. The Drake-focused class marks a unique approach by centering an individual artist’s career rather than a genre or movement.
Text
As of July 2026, no official statement has been released by Drake’s management team regarding the course. The rapper has not publicly commented on academic analyses of his work, though he has previously criticized music critics in interviews.
Text
The course’s final project deadline is December 15, 2026. Students will present their findings in a public symposium, with attendance open to the general public. Canada College has not yet announced whether the event will be livestreamed.