I am thinking of applying to the University of Huddersfield to take a Bachelor of Arts degree in Peppa Pig.

The TV phenomenon, I would suggest, is a suitable case for in-depth research into the ethics, mores, morality and social life of a porcine family, as compared with the modern perceived standard family unit of two parents and 2.4 children.

The Pig family has Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, Peppa Pig and George Pig. The point four, in this case, is Goldie, the pet goldfish, such an important part of their domestic stability that they take it on bus rides to cure its depression and to the aquarium to visit friends.

Some dogs should be so lucky.

There are comparisons to be drawn between Peppa and her friends and George Orwell’s Animal Farm. All the animals in Peppa land talk (apart from Goldie, fish in general, chickens, ducks and a stick insect) but there, any resemblance ends. Unlike Animal Farm, there are no humans, which, to my mind, is a good thing.

Orwell’s 1945 book was an allegorical expose of the dangers of Communism and dictatorship, where the animals, through blood lust and purges, come to resemble humans. It does not have a lot of laughs.

The Peppa programmes, on the other hand, are full of light, sunshine, good humour and friendship in a land of perpetual delight without fear or oppression. But then it has no humans. It even avoids stereotypes (apart from the Rabbit family liking carrots). Mrs Rabbit, for instance, is a very modern female who drives a fire engine and flies a helicopter.

What a perfect role model for young girls.

Peppa is a perfect subject for degree study as it is on all day on its own dedicated TV channel on Nick Junior and is essential viewing for my two-year-old grand-daughter. It also offers a positive attitude in cynical world. High technology is kept to a minimum with emphasis on playing outside and interacting with other youngsters. Peppa’s favourite pastime, for instance, isn’t Facebook or Twittering, it’s jumping up and down in muddy puddles. In fact, everyone in Peppa-land likes jumping up and down in muddy puddles. I do myself, if no one is looking.

Ah yes, back to the simple life.

Once I have obtained my BA, I am considering a doctorate on Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom, which is produced by the same brilliant programme makers, Astley Baker Davies.

This is set in an enchanted land of fairies, elves and insects, which very often these days, seems far preferable than living in the here and now.

And if you think I’m stretching credulity by suggesting such a course might be feasible or academically acceptable, I might point out you can already take a degree in Harry Potter at Ohio State University.Caption: Peppa Pig – study of a contented life.