While many students pursue traditional fields like medicine, education, and economics, not everyone fits into these well-known professions. Some individuals seek out more unique, specialized careers that cater to niche interests or emerging industries.
The beauty of higher education in the United States is that it offers a diverse array of programs, including some that might seem unusual at first glance but are awesome and in high demand.
In this article, ScholarsInfoDesk team explores fifteen of the most unconventional degrees offered by American universities. These are multidisciplinary programs that open doors to exciting career paths.
Biomimicry – Arizona State University
Biomimicry is a cutting-edge discipline where nature’s designs inspire solutions for human engineering and design challenges.
Arizona State University (ASU) offers a Master’s in Biomimicry, where students learn how to apply patterns from the natural world to solve modern problems, from architecture to product design. The program is offered fully online, allowing professionals worldwide to gain expertise in this growing field.
Did you know? Biomimicry has inspired innovations like Velcro, which was developed by studying how burrs stick to animal fur.
Foresight Technology – University of Houston
Contrary to popular belief, Foresight Technology is not about predicting the future with a crystal ball. Instead, it involves analyzing trends in technology, society, and economics to forecast future developments.
The University of Houston offers one of the few programs in Strategic Foresight, equipping students with skills to anticipate future challenges and opportunities across various industries.
Graduates of the program work in sectors ranging from business to policy-making, helping organizations prepare for potential futures by assessing trends and data.
Somatic Studies – Evergreen State College
Another unusual university degree in the USA is in somatic studies at Evergreen State College.
In an increasingly disconnected world, somatic studies focus on the body-mind connection, offering holistic approaches to mental health, wellness, and therapy.
Evergreen State College’s Somatic Studies Program combines elements of psychology, art, mindfulness, and movement therapies to promote harmony between the body and mind.
Graduates can pursue careers in therapy, bodywork, and even performance arts, emphasizing emotional and physical well-being.
Ethical Hacking – Dakota State University
Hacking is not just for the dark web; ethical hackers are hired by companies to safeguard digital systems.
Dakota State University offers a Bachelor’s in Cyber Operations, where students specialize in ethical hacking. The program trains students to find vulnerabilities in software and hardware, ensuring security for businesses and government institutions.
Ethical hackers are in high demand as the need for cybersecurity increases, making this an exciting and lucrative career path.
Packaging Science – Clemson University
Packaging is not just about aesthetics—it plays a crucial role in product functionality and sustainability.
Clemson University offers a Packaging Science Program, which blends design, engineering, and marketing. Students learn to develop functional, environmentally friendly packaging solutions across industries.
This interdisciplinary program involves subjects like chemistry, physics, and graphic design, preparing graduates for roles in manufacturing, logistics, and consumer goods.
Eco-Gastronomy – University of New Hampshire
With the rise of sustainable living, Eco-Gastronomy focuses on the connection between food production, nutrition, and environmental health.
At the University of New Hampshire, students learn about sustainable food systems, including urban gardening, farm-to-table initiatives, and composting.
This program prepares students for careers in sustainable agriculture, food service, and advocacy for environmental change through better food practices.
Maritime Archaeology – Texas A&M University
Exploring shipwrecks and ancient underwater artifacts may sound like the stuff of movies, but it’s a real profession.
Texas A&M University offers a Maritime Archaeology Program where students study ancient ship designs, submerged cultural resources, and preservation techniques. The program emphasizes historical and environmental analysis of marine ecosystems.
Maritime archaeologists contribute to historical preservation, marine conservation, and even national security.
Psychometrics – Boston College
Psychometrics combines psychology and statistics to measure human abilities, personality traits, and mental functions.
Boston College offers a highly regarded program in Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics, and Assessment (MESA), which focuses on developing tools for psychological and educational assessments.
Professionals in this field are critical for educational testing, employee evaluations, and large-scale social science research.
Chemistry of Medicinal Plants – Northern Michigan University
The Chemistry of Medicinal Plants degree offered by Northern Michigan University taps into the growing field of alternative medicine. Students in this program study the chemistry behind medicinal herbs and plants, preparing for careers in pharmaceuticals, herbal medicine, and plant research.
This program blends horticulture, chemistry, and pharmacology, providing graduates with a unique skill set in both traditional and alternative medicine industries.
Adventure Education – Plymouth State University
For those with a passion for the outdoors, Plymouth State University offers a Bachelor’s in Adventure Education, where students learn how to lead wilderness expeditions, teach outdoor survival skills, and manage outdoor programs.
Graduates often work in outdoor recreation, parks, and education programs.
Comedy Studies – Columbia College Chicago
Are you interested in making people laugh for a living? Columbia College Chicago offers a Bachelor’s in Comedy Writing and Performance, focusing on the history, theory, and practice of comedic writing and performance.
Students can pursue careers as stand-up comedians, writers, or comedic actors.
Theme Park Engineering – California State University, Long Beach
Ever wondered who designs the thrilling rides at amusement parks? California State University, Long Beach offers a program in Theme Park Engineering, where students learn the technical and creative aspects of designing rides, attractions, and themed environments.
This unique field blends mechanical engineering, design, and entertainment.
Citrus Studies – Florida Southern College
Florida is famous for its oranges, so it’s no surprise that Florida Southern College offers a Bachelor’s in Citrus Studies. This program trains students in citrus production, management, and agricultural practices, preparing them for roles in the citrus industry or agricultural science.
Auctioneering – Harrisburg Area Community College
Auctioneers play a vital role in selling goods, art, real estate, and antiques. Harrisburg Area Community College offers a Certificate in Auctioneering, where students learn how to run auctions, engage buyers, and value various items.
Graduates can pursue careers in auction houses, estate sales, and antique shops.
Digital Mapping – University of Kentucky
Cartography has evolved, and today’s cartographers use advanced technology to create maps for various purposes, from urban planning to environmental management.
The University of Kentucky offers a Digital Mapping Program where students combine traditional cartography with modern design, geography, and computer science.
Graduates are highly sought after in fields like environmental consulting, national security, and geospatial analysis.
Concluding Thoughts
Whatever your interest of going to university may be, you can rest assured of getting a degree that matches your interest. These specialized degrees are not only unusual but are also increasingly relevant in today’s society.
