Hip hop’s roots have long been intertwined with cultural expressions of the underrepresented, and now, academia is beginning to recognize its vital contributions. In a remarkable move, Princeton University has announced a unique course dedicated to celebrating the women who have shaped hip hop, titled ‘Miss-Education: The Women of Hip Hop.’ It’s a trailblazing step within the Ivy League and aims to center female rappers not simply as participants, but as foundational figures in the genre.

Launching in Spring 2026, this course will serve as a multimedia exploration, combining academic study, performance, and a public showcase. The leaders of this course comprise an impressive roster: Chesney Snow, a well-regarded hip hop educator and Princeton faculty member; Eternia, a respected Canadian hip hop artist; and Dr. Francesca D’Amico-Cuthbert, a hip hop historian with a multifaceted approach to research and artistry. Together, they will guide students through a semester-long journey into the heart of hip hop feminism.

Students enrolled in this course will delve deeply into the careers and legacies of iconic female artists like MC Sha Rock, Roxanne Shanté, Queen Latifah, Lauryn Hill, Bahamadia, Lil Kim, and Cardi B. This array of artists represents not only different eras of hip hop but also illustrates the diverse styles women have brought to the genre. Through scholarly inquiry and creative practice, students will examine these influential figures within the context of hip hop feminism.

The development of this course is a collaborative effort between Princeton and the Lewis Center for the Arts, with an enthusiastic endorsement from the Hip Hop Education Center. An official statement highlighted their excitement: ‘We’re thrilled to see this initiative launch and honored to be partners in bringing it to life.’

The course is designed to push students to be both analytical and expressive, taking cues from the format of the Lyricist Lounge Show’s blend of music and performance. It culminates on April 30 with a presentation of original work, showcasing student explorations of hip hop feminism through a series of skits.

The class will be held on Thursdays from 1:30 p.m. to 4:20 p.m., and is open to students from all academic disciplines, with no prerequisites. However, the prestige and novelty of the course might make securing a spot particularly challenging—much like the hustle central to hip hop itself.

This course arrives at a pivotal cultural moment as conversations surrounding diversity, inclusion, and representation continue to evolve. It embodies the shift towards recognizing the intellectual and creative contributions of Black culture and hip hop to broader academic and social narratives. This isn’t just another elective; it’s a statement of intent regarding the place of hip hop in higher learning.

While hip hop courses have been introduced at various institutions over the years, Princeton’s focus on women in hip hop marks a significant recognition of their contributions and struggles. It reflects a growing appreciation for the voices that have often been marginalized despite their undeniable impact.

As hip hop continues to be the voice of newer generations and connects deeply with societal issues, educational initiatives like Princeton’s pave the way for deeper understanding and respect. They ensure that women in hip hop are studied not merely as participants in the male-dominated narrative but as key architects who have shaped the genre’s development. In doing so, it cements their rightful place in history and offers an inspiring example of how academic institutions can adapt and evolve.