Unusual Majors You’ve Never Heard Of

Photo by Emily Ranquist

When it comes to choosing a major, many students gravitate towards familiar fields like business, engineering, or biology. However, if you’re looking for something truly unique that sets you apart, the UK offers some fascinating and unusual majors you might not have heard of. These unique programs deliver specialised skills and knowledge sought after in specialised sectors.

Balancing your interests with practical considerations is key when deciding on a major. If you find yourself overwhelmed with choices and struggling to manage your academic workload, remember you can always turn to DoMyEssay with pro academic writers to help you stay on top of your assignments.

1.   Brewing and Distilling

Understanding the Craft

Brewing and Distilling is a specialised major offered at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. This program dives deep into the science and art of making beer, spirits, and other alcoholic beverages. You’ll learn about fermentation, quality control, and the business aspects of the brewing industry.

Practical Experience

Students get hands-on experience in brewing and distilling processes, preparing them for careers in breweries and distilleries. The program also covers the history and cultural significance of alcoholic beverages, providing a well-rounded education.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers as brewers, distillers, or quality control specialists. The growing craft beer and spirits industry offers numerous opportunities for those with specialised knowledge in this field.

2.   Viking Studies

Exploring Norse Heritage

University College London (UCL) offers a major in Viking Studies. This interdisciplinary program covers Norse history, literature, and archaeology, providing a comprehensive understanding of Viking culture.

Immersive Learning

Students have the opportunity to participate in archaeological digs and study ancient texts. This immersive learning experience brings Viking history to life and deepens your understanding of the Norse world.

Unique Careers

Graduates can work in museums, cultural heritage organisations, or continue their studies in archaeology and history. This major offers a unique perspective on a fascinating period of history.

3.   Baking Technology Management

The Science of Baking

London South Bank University offers a major in Baking Technology Management. This program combines baking techniques with management skills, preparing students for leadership roles in the baking industry.

Practical Skills

You’ll learn about bread making, pastry production, and confectionery. Additionally, the curriculum covers business courses that prepare you to successfully manage a bakery business.

Industry Demand

Graduates can pursue careers as bakery managers, product developers, or quality assurance specialists. The baking industry values the combination of technical and managerial skills.

4.   Horology

The Art of Timekeeping

Birmingham City University offers a specialised major focused on the study of timekeeping devices, known as Horology. This program covers the history, design, and repair of clocks and watches.

Detailed Craftsmanship

Students learn the intricate skills needed to create and maintain precision timepieces. The curriculum integrates both theoretical studies and practical applications, providing a comprehensive understanding of timekeeping.

Niche Market

Graduates can work as watchmakers, restorers, or in horological museums. Due to the specialised nature of this field, there is a consistent demand for skilled professionals.

5.   Equestrian Psychology and Sports Science

Understanding Horse Behavior

Offered by Hartpury University, this major focuses on the psychological and physical aspects of equestrian sports. You’ll study horse behaviour, training techniques, and sports science.

Practical Training

The course provides direct, hands-on training with horses, ensuring that students receive practical and applicable experience. You’ll also learn about the physiological demands of equestrian sports on both horses and riders.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can work as equine behaviourists, trainers, or in equine sports management. This major combines a passion for horses with scientific knowledge.

6.   Puppetry Design and Performance

Bringing Puppets to Life

The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama provides a specialised major in Puppetry Design and Performance. This program teaches you how to design, create, and perform with puppets.

Creative Expression

During the program, students delve into various puppetry techniques and materials, honing their creative and artistic abilities. The program also includes performance training, allowing you to bring your creations to life.

Diverse Applications

Graduates can work in theatre, film, and television or as independent artists. The creative and technical skills gained from this major are highly versatile.

7.   Digital Forensics

Investigating Cyber Crimes

De Montfort University offers a major in Digital Forensics. This program focuses on the investigation of cybercrimes and digital evidence, training students in the latest techniques for uncovering digital footprints.

Technical Training

Students gain hands-on experience with forensic software and tools, learning how to recover and analyse data from various digital devices. This technical training is crucial for careers in cybersecurity and law enforcement.

Growing Field

With the increasing reliance on digital technology, the demand for digital forensic experts is rising. Graduates can pursue careers as digital forensic analysts and cybersecurity consultants or work within law enforcement agencies.

Conclusion

Choosing an unusual major can set you apart and open doors to niche industries. Whether you’re interested in brewing, digital forensics, or equestrian psychology, the UK offers a variety of unique programs that cater to diverse interests. These majors not only impart specialised knowledge but also open doors to exciting professional opportunities. So, if you’re looking to stand out and pursue your passions, consider exploring one of these unconventional fields. Your college experience can be both unique and rewarding, leading to a fulfilling career path.

Recommended For You

About the Author: Lenora Singh