Updated on October 10th, 2024
Many parents expect their students to follow a traditional career path, but times have changed. Industries today are looking for fresh, creative thinkers, and students with unconventional skills often stand out. Choosing one of the weird majors available at colleges today could lead your student to a career filled with exciting opportunities that traditional majors might not offer.
If your student wants to find college scholarships to cover the cost of their education, it’s easier than you’d think. Sign up for our free college scholarship webinar to learn more about the process! Take a quick trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve a spot today.
Imagine your student pursuing a unique bachelor’s degree or master’s degree that not only sparks their curiosity but also sets them up for a promising career. These majors may initially sound unusual, but they provide specialized knowledge and skill sets that employers increasingly value in niche fields. It’s time to think outside the box and embrace the unexpected!
Unconventional Degree Programs in Science and Technology
Biomimicry
Biomimicry is a captivating field that encourages students to explore how the natural world can inspire innovative solutions to human problems. By studying nature’s designs, from animal structures to plant processes, students learn to apply these patterns to areas such as engineering, architecture, and product design.
Arizona State University stands out for offering a part-time master’s degree in biomimicry, blending the essentials of this field with courses that connect human well-being to nature. Students dive deep into topics such as sustainable design, ecology, and biology, building a strong foundation for a career that integrates nature’s wisdom into modern industry.
One of the most exciting aspects of this program is its hands-on approach. ASU’s BioBrainstorm Practicum allows students to collaborate with industry partners on real-world projects. This practical experience enables them to test their ideas and gain valuable insights into how biomimicry can address contemporary challenges.
Biomimicry is more than just a college major—it’s a mindset that encourages students to examine society presently and find inspiration in the natural world to create sustainable, forward-thinking solutions. If your student is passionate about sustainability, design, and innovation, this field can open doors to exciting and impactful careers.
Astrobiology
Astrobiology offers an exciting opportunity for students fascinated by the mysteries of life beyond Earth. Just as college music departments offer specialized programs in jazz studies, so do departments in fields like astrobiology. This field blends biology, astronomy, and planetary science to explore questions that captivate both scientists and dreamers alike, like the origin of life on Earth, the potential for life on Mars, and the future of lunar colonization.
Various colleges around the country offer degree programs in unique fields like astrobiology. At Florida Tech, students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Astrobiology embark on a unique educational journey. They study everything from the building blocks of life to the search for Martian microorganisms and the exploration of extrasolar planets. With access to state-of-the-art research telescopes, students gain hands-on experience observing celestial bodies and analyzing data to better understand our place in the cosmos.
Florida Tech’s program is also dedicated to preparing students for the future of space exploration. As companies like SpaceX and NASA push the boundaries of what’s possible, astrobiologists will play a critical role in these efforts.
As students develop their understanding of astrobiology, they also learn to ask important scientific questions and tackle the mysteries that have intrigued humanity for centuries. This major not only appeals to their sense of wonder but also equips them with practical skills and knowledge, making it a perfect fit for those passionate about both science and exploration.
Fermentation Sciences
Fermentation Sciences is an exciting, interdisciplinary field that introduces students to the process of fermentation and its wide range of applications. From the food and beverage industry to pharmaceuticals, fermentation plays a critical role in product development and innovation.
At Appalachian State University, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Fermentation Sciences, which blends the sciences with business acumen. Courses cover everything from biology and chemistry to mathematics, economics, and business management. This well-rounded approach ensures that students gain both technical knowledge and business insight, making them competitive in the growing fermentation-related industries. Knowledge in fermentation sciences can also be applied to fields like professional lawn care.
One of the most appealing aspects of this program is the real-world experience it offers. Students engage in hands-on learning in both laboratory and field settings, where they can apply their classroom knowledge to actual fermentation processes. Appalachian State also has strong ties with local industries, giving students opportunities to intern and network with professionals in fields like brewing, distillation, and biotechnology.
Weird College Majors in the Arts and Entertainment
Comic Art
Comic Art is an exciting and creative major that allows students to explore the world of visual storytelling through comic books, strips, and graphic novels. Imagine your student learning how to craft their own stories, design unique characters, and bring their ideas to life on the page. Various colleges around the country offer degree programs in specialized arts like comic art.
Comic Art isn’t just about drawing; it’s about storytelling, innovation, and connecting with audiences through a unique visual medium. At the Minneapolis College of Art and Design – a world-renowned Minneapolis college – students can pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Comic Art, where they’ll learn the ins and outs of creating both traditional and digital comics. The curriculum includes courses in comic book publishing, storytelling techniques, and experimental comics, allowing students to develop their skills in various areas of the field.
One of the unique aspects of this major is its focus on both the art and business of comic creation. Students not only learn how to draw and tell stories, but they also gain insights into the publishing world and how to market their work. This blend of creative and business skills sets students up for success in an industry that’s constantly evolving. With the growth of digital platforms and independent publishing, comic artists today have more opportunities than ever before.
Plus, the school’s students benefit from a vibrant creative community, where they can collaborate with peers, learn from experienced instructors, and even connect with industry professionals. This major encourages students to explore their own voice and style while also preparing them for the professional world. If your student has a passion for comics and a drive to tell their own stories, Comic Art could be the perfect fit for their artistic journey!
Puppet Arts
Puppet Arts is a fascinating field that blends creativity, performance, and design, offering students the chance to work in theater, film, television, and even education. If your student has a passion for storytelling and enjoys hands-on art, puppetry might be a perfect fit. There are various colleges around the country offer degree programs in specialized arts like puppet arts.
This major teaches students how to bring puppets to life, combining techniques from theater production, puppetry arts, and design. Whether it’s crafting intricate marionettes or creating larger-than-life puppets for a stage production, this major offers endless creative possibilities.
The University of Connecticut is the only university in the U.S. that offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Puppet Arts, making it a truly unique program. Students begin their puppetry training from the very first semester, diving straight into specialized courses that cover everything from theater production to puppet construction and design. With a hands-on approach to learning, UConn’s students gain experience working with various materials, learning the technical aspects of puppetry, and mastering performance techniques.
One of the most exciting aspects of Puppet Arts is its versatility. Puppetry is not just for theater—it’s also widely used in film, television, and even theme parks. With a bachelor’s degree in Puppet Arts, students can pursue careers in the entertainment industry, from working on television shows like Sesame Street to designing puppets for feature films or stage performances. This degree opens doors to a wide array of opportunities in both performance and production roles.
UConn’s program also emphasizes collaboration, allowing students to work alongside peers in the theater and film departments, further expanding their creative horizons. If your student loves the idea of blending visual art with performance and enjoys creating something truly unique, Puppet Arts offers an engaging and rewarding pathway.
Costume Technology in the Entertainment Industry
Universities with costume technology programs offer specialized training in the art of designing, building and maintaining costumes for theatre, film and other performance mediums. These programs allow costume technology majors to develop technical skills in pattern drafting, fabric manipulation and historical garment construction as well as problem solving and collaboration with designers and directors. DePaul’s Theatre School is one of them, with a Costume Technology BFA program. Students at DePaul get hands on experience through projects and productions so graduates are prepared for careers in costume design and construction in the entertainment industry.
Teaching Students
Online Educator
As online education continues to grow, the demand for skilled online educators has never been higher. For students who are passionate about teaching but also excited by the possibilities of technology, becoming an Online Educator offers an innovative career path.
This field focuses on helping students learn effectively in virtual environments, where flexibility and creativity in instruction are key. Online education isn’t just a temporary trend—it’s reshaping how we think about teaching and learning in the 21st century.
The University of Missouri offers a specialized academic program in Online Education that equips students with the skills needed to thrive in this evolving field. This program covers essential topics like instructional design, online pedagogy, and technology integration, providing a strong foundation for teaching in a digital world.
Your student will learn how to design engaging, accessible, and interactive online lessons that cater to a variety of learning styles and needs. With these skills, they’ll be prepared to create impactful learning experiences that can reach students from anywhere.
Online education allows for a more personalized learning experience, and educators in this field are at the forefront of adapting instruction to meet the unique needs of each student. If your student enjoys using technology and wants to be part of the future of education, this degree offers an exciting opportunity.
Unique College Majors in Business and Entrepreneurship
Family Enterprise
Family Enterprise is a unique field of study that focuses on the management and sustainability of family-owned businesses. For students who come from entrepreneurial families or dream of starting their own business, this major offers the perfect combination of business skills and personal development.
Students in Family Enterprise programs learn how to navigate the challenges of family dynamics while mastering the principles of leadership, strategy, and business management. Stetson’s Family Enterprise Center – a part of Stetson University – is a place where students explore topics like leadership development, family business governance, and entrepreneurial strategies. The program is designed to help students develop both the professional skills needed to manage a business and the personal growth necessary for long-term success.
Family Enterprise is one of those cool college majors that allows students to combine business acumen with a deep understanding of family values and traditions. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in family businesses or start their own. With courses that cover everything from public relations to financial management, students will be ready to handle the complexities of running a family-owned venture while also pursuing their personal entrepreneurial goals.
Brewing Science
Brewing Science offers students a fascinating blend of chemistry, technology, and business, all centered around the craft of brewing beer. This major is perfect for students who are passionate about the art and science behind creating high-quality brews. Some universities also offer a master’s degree in Brewing Science for those looking to further specialize.
From understanding the fermentation process to mastering the intricacies of brewery operations, Brewing Science provides a hands-on education in one of the fastest-growing industries. Many colleges offer degree programs in Brewing Science that dive deep into the technical aspects of brewing. Students take courses in brewing technology, beer chemistry, and the operational management of breweries.
However, this academic specialty ensures students not only understand the scientific processes involved but also how to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, preparing them for a successful career in the brewing industry. Whether your student dreams of working in a large-scale brewery or starting their own craft beer business, this major equips them with the tools they need to succeed.
Brewing Science shares some similarities with fields like viticulture and enology, which focus on winemaking. Both involve a deep understanding of fermentation, flavor profiles, and production techniques. However, Brewing Science specifically hones in on the beer industry, giving students a specialized skill set that is in high demand.
Viticulture and Enology
If you love wine and science, Cornell students can choose to major in the Agriculture and Life Sciences program called Viticulture and Enology. This four-year undergraduate program combines the study of grape growing (viticulture) and winemaking (enology) to give you a well-rounded education in the science and art of wine production.
The curriculum includes core courses in biology and chemistry, so you have a strong science foundation. You can also choose from various electives in business and plant science to tailor your education to your interests and career goals.
One of the best parts of this program is the capstone project and internship requirement. These hands-on experiences which allows students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations, whether working in a vineyard, winery, or wine sales and marketing firm.
Cornell Viticulture and Enology program graduates are ready for a career in the wine industry. Whether they want to be winemakers, wine educators, or wine sales professionals, this major gives students the skills and knowledge to succeed in this exciting field.
Degree Programs in Health and Wellness
Mortuary Science
Mortuary Science may not be a typical career choice, but it offers students the chance to provide compassionate care during one of life’s most challenging moments. This field prepares students to work in funeral homes, hospitals, and other settings where they will help families with the care and preparation of the deceased.
Mortuary Science is ideal for students who have a strong sense of empathy and professionalism and who are interested in the science and traditions surrounding end-of-life care. The University of the District of Columbia Community College offers an associate’s degree in Mortuary Science, where students gain hands-on experience in everything from anatomy and physiology to funeral service law.
This degree program is designed to prepare students for real-world careers, equipping them with the knowledge they need to serve both the deceased and their families. Students will learn to combine the technical aspects of the field with the interpersonal skills required to guide families through the funeral process.
Ultimately, Mortuary Science is a field where academics and practical skills intersect. Students will explore areas such as embalming, restorative art, and grief counseling while also learning essential business skills that help run funeral services smoothly. Understanding quantitative methods for record-keeping and logistics is another crucial aspect of the program. If your student is drawn to a meaningful, service-oriented career, Mortuary Science offers a fulfilling path that makes a real difference in people’s lives during challenging times.
Ecogastronomy
Ecogastronomy is a fascinating field that explores the intersection of food, culture, and the environment. It’s perfect for students who are passionate about sustainability, nutrition, and the culinary arts. This major goes beyond traditional food studies by focusing on how food production and consumption impact the environment and society.
The University of New Hampshire offers a bachelor’s degree in Ecogastronomy, providing students with a comprehensive education in sustainable food systems, hospitality, and nutrition. Through courses in areas like sustainable agriculture and plant and soil sciences, students gain a deep understanding of how food is grown and how those processes can be made more environmentally friendly. The program also emphasizes the cultural significance of food, encouraging students to think critically about how food choices affect both communities and ecosystems.
For students interested in weird college majors that blend science, culture, and environmentalism, Ecogastronomy stands out. Graduates are well-prepared to work in fields such as sustainable food production, nutrition, and even hospitality management, where they can promote eco-friendly practices. Ultimately, if your student cares deeply about the environment and wants to be part of the movement toward a more sustainable future in food, Ecogastronomy could be the ideal path for them.
College Majors in Sports and Recreation
Adventure Education
Adventure Education is an exciting major for students who love the outdoors and are passionate about teaching others through experience-based learning. This field focuses on outdoor education, leadership, and environmental awareness, making it ideal for students who want to combine their love for nature with a rewarding career.
Plymouth State University offers a dynamic interdisciplinary degree in Adventure Education that covers everything from outdoor skills to group dynamics and environmental education. Students in this program learn how to guide groups safely through outdoor activities, manage risk, and foster teamwork in natural settings. Plus, the hands-on learning experience prepares students for careers in a variety of outdoor settings, including schools, camps, and wilderness adventure programs.
For students looking at weird college majors that combine physical activity, education, and a love of nature, Adventure Education is an outstanding option. This major provides students with both practical outdoor skills and the ability to teach and lead others in outdoor environments, all while allowing them to pursue a career where being out and about is part of the equation.
Surf Science and Technology
Surf Science and Technology is a unique and thrilling major for students who are passionate about the ocean and surfing culture. The interdisciplinary degree programs delve into the science behind waves, surfboard design, and coastal ecosystems, offering students a blend of adventure and academics. For those who want to turn their love of surfing into a career, Surf Science and Technology provides the perfect path to enter the surf industry, where they can contribute to everything from surfboard innovation to coastal preservation.
Students in these bachelor’s degree programs learn not only about the mechanics of surfing but also the environmental and technological aspects of the industry. This hands-on education prepares them to work in areas like surfboard design, environmental advocacy, and surf tourism.
For students who thrive on the beach and want to explore weird college majors that are both exciting and career-focused, Surf Science and Technology stands out. If your student loves the ocean and dreams of a career in surfing, this degree offers them a way to ride the wave into a fulfilling and unique profession.
If your student wants to find college scholarships to cover the cost of their education, it’s easier than you’d think. Sign up for our free college scholarship webinar to learn more about the process! Take a quick trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve a spot today.
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