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7 Non-Run-Of-The-Mill Majors To Study

By | Carla Adams

The job market is evolving, and so are the subjects students can major in to be able to access newer jobs that require unique knowledge and skills. Traditional paths are no longer the only options; students choose less common fields that suit their interests and career goals better.

This trend has led to arise in the popularity of new, unique majors. Let’s explore some such unusual majors that are not only breaking the norm, but also providing students with exciting career opportunities.

Nonprofit management

Nonprofit management is a compelling niche that focuses on developing professionals adept at leading social impact organizations. For these institutions to function optimally, proficient managers are important.

One important area of study is accounting and finance for nonprofits. This aspect encompasses budgeting, strategic planning, fund accounting, and general and revenue funds. The curriculum also covers capital project funds, focusing on the sensible use of resources.

The curriculum also includes governance and leadership. It encapsulates defining mission statements, setting up managerial and financial controls, and cultivating organizational capacity. Students also explore marketing, volunteer management, and operations, enabling nonprofits to work towards their mission sustainably.

There’s no shortage of educational opportunities to prepare you for this rewarding field. Start by researching different universities and shortlisting the best nonprofit management programs you find. It’s advisable to opt for an online program since that will allow you to garner relevant experience alongside your studies.

Adventure education

Adventure education is a unique major that combines a love for outdoor activities with academics. Students studying this subject are taught how to lead groups, manage group behavior, and encourage everyone to participate in outdoor learning and experiences. The major also includes learning practical skills for outdoor adventures. This includesbackpacking, rock climbing, canoeing, high ropes courses, and mountaineering.

Safety is important, so students also learn first-aid skills to use in remote outdoor locations. They study how to manage risks and understand the legal issues around outdoor activities. Plus, they get to learn about how to run outdoor adventure programs.

Puppetry arts

Puppetry courses focus on the design and creation of puppets, which is a comprehensive process that requires patience and attention to detail. Students learn to craft various puppet types, from marionettes to shadow puppets, and learn unique manipulation techniques to control their puppets. They alsoexplore theatrical aspects of puppetry by studying the history and evolution of this art form. Not just confined to stage and screen, the curriculum also sheds light on the importance of puppetry in education and child development. Children’s theater is a crucial part of the program; it emphasizes how puppetry can enhance learning and self-growth for youngsters.

Additionally, design elements are taught extensively, including costume design, sculpture, and mask-making, enriching the students’ artistic palettes and enhancing their potential to create captivating performances.

Fermentation sciences

Fermentation sciences is a fusion of various disciplines, seamlessly blending theory with hands-on experiences. Students study chemistry and microbiology and understand their application in fermentation. This knowledge equips them to appreciate the science behind traditional food and beverage fermentations in the production of items such as beer, wine, cheese, and even bread.

Besides the culinary arts, this major also explores industrial fermentation. It examines how fermentation assists in creating biofuels, refined chemicals, proteins, and antibodies. This expertise opens up job prospects in biotechnology firms.

Students also learn about fermenter design, downstream processing, and effluent treatment. This trio is crucial for any fermentation process, whether it’s brewing craft beer or producing high-value biotech products.

Ecogastronomy

Ecogastronomy offers an engaging multidisciplinary approach that bridges the gap between the farm and the table. It explores sustainable agriculture, probing into the principles and practices of eco-friendly food production. This means learning about organic farming, soil health, and water management.

Alongside, there’s a focus on hospitality management. This isn’t just about serving food and drink, but managing it efficiently. You learn about inventory management, quality control, and customer service, important aspects of food and beverage management.

This major also explores the complex world of nutrition. Students learn about the relationship between food, nutrition, and health, equipping themselves with knowledge about balanced diets, dietary restrictions, and disease prevention.

Ecogastronomy also immerses students in international food cultures. The curriculum explores the history, cooking methods, and aesthetics of local and international cuisine, which helps students understand how culture shapes food.

Pop culture studies

In a pop culture studies major, students learn about various aspects of popular culture and study its impact on society. They analyze television shows, movies, music, and social media, interpreting their role in shaping societal norms.

Students learn to deconstruct advertising campaigns and understand the marketing strategies behind them. The curriculum also covers the history and evolution of popular culture, tracing it from the era of print media to the digital age.

This major also hones students’ critical thinking and analytical skills, which can be applied in various professions. This academic training prepares them for marketing, public relations, and journalism careers where they can influence popular culture.

Nautical archeology

Nautical archaeology involves studying the history hidden beneath the oceans and other water bodies. This major exploresthe mysterious underwater world, where scholars decode remnants of shipwrecks, sunken cities, and other submerged heritage sites.

The program equips learners with archaeological methods, diving skills, and an understanding of maritime history. These unique learning experiences prepare students for a variety of career paths. Graduates can work with museums to curate exhibits showcasing maritime artifacts or engage in research at academic institutions. Alternatively, they can collaborate with governmental agencies, helping conserve and manage underwater cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The shift towards unconventional areas of study showcases the diverse spectrum of human interest and the agility of academic institutions in catering to these needs. Whether you’re intrigued by the intricacies of nonprofit management or drawn to the enigma of nautical archaeology, there’s a major that’ll fuel your passion. So make a pick and start learning new things.

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