 | |
| Formation | 2011 |
|---|---|
| Type | Online education program |
Founder | Glenn Beck |
Beck University was aweb-based education program launched in July 2010 byAmerican radio and television hostGlenn Beck'sMercury Radio Arts. Beck University offered online classes in subjects such asreligion,American history, andeconomics that emphasized Beck's Conservative Christian views. The classes were offered to anyone who subscribes to Beck'sTheBlaze.[1][2] Despite the use of the term "university" in the title, Beck University's courses are not for credit, and Beck himself never completed any college or university courses.[3][4][5]
The charter selection of courses offered by Beck University, as of July 2010[update], included Faith 101, 102, and 103; Hope 101, 102, and 103; and Charity 101, 102 and 103. The classes consist of weekly lectures every Wednesday night.[6]
Faith 101 dealt with American history and is taught byDavid Barton,[2] whom Beck has praised as "theLibrary of Congress in shoes".[7] Barton is anevangelical Christian minister and author who is known "for his argument that the founding fathers renounced the separation of church and state".[6][7]
Hope 101 dealt with economics and was taught by David L. Buckner, who operates an executive training institute and is an adjunct professor of psychology and education atColumbia University Teachers College,[3][8] as well as an adjunct professor of business at theStern School of Business at New York University.[9]
Charity 101 was taught by the chair ofLouisiana State University political science departmentJames R. Stoner, Jr.[2][6] The course made the connection between the Constitution,The Federalist Papers, and the U.S. as acharitable nation.[7]
Beck University's coat of arms (based onPrinceton University's coat of arms) features a quill, anAmerican bison, and an image ofGeorge Washington, as well as the motto "Tyrannis Seditio, Obsequium Deo", which is Latin for "Revolution against tyrants, submission to God".[6]