Explore the intersection of science, culture, and religion in the UFO era, from 1947 to today.

This course examines the extraterrestrial hypothesis, SETI, NASA’s search for life, and the broader cultural impact of UAPs. From anomalous sightings to abduction claims, ancient aliens, and UFO cults, we connect the dots between scientific inquiry and public fascination. Bridging the sciences, humanities, and theology, we uncover how UAP Studies is emerging as a legitimate academic field.

1. The UFO phenomenon and the culture that surrounds it can only be properly understood through an interdisciplinary lens that incorporates historical, folkloric, and anthropological perspectives.

2. The UFO phenomenon, along with other so-called “fringe beliefs,” exists as a site of struggle between believers and nonbelievers over what constitutes “normative belief” in contemporary American culture.