The Four Most Original Fields of Study

“What’s your major?” just may be the most common inquiry asked of co-eds around the world. Many choose degrees with popular majors, such as History, English, Biology, Psychology, and Business. For others, the answer to this question is not as simple. And maybe it shouldn’t be, considering the many possible courses of study out there just waiting to be discovered. Let’s take a closer look at four unusual degrees, and why one might be right for you.

1. Arctic Tourism

If you’re not afraid of a little cold weather, love the great outdoors, and enjoy immersing yourself in different cultures, a degree in Arctic Tourism may be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Consider UIT The Arctic University of Norway’s bachelor’s degree offering in Arctic Adventure Tourism, which delivers both the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary for tourism careers in this fascinating region of the world.

Factor in a recent report from the United Nations indicating that tourist interest in Arctic cruises will be booming in the years ahead due to climate change and longer Arctic summers, and the appeal of a degree in this field becomes even greater for employment-minded students.

Not only that, but the skills you learn while pursuing this degree are largely transferable throughout the tourist industry meaning additional opportunities to travel and see the world while earning a paycheck.

2. Butler Training

Yes, you read that right. Students at the School for Butlers & Hospitality are trained in the art of hospitality through practical and organizational tools and techniques which will serve them well throughout their careers and personal lives. Wondering why someone would want to go to college just to become a butler? While butlers may seem like an old-fashioned concept, exceptional interpersonal skills and butler techniques including everything from setting a table to managing a wardrobe never go out of style.

Not to mention that today’s butlers are very different than what you see on television or in old movies. As technology has evolved, so has the role of the butler. In addition to managing typical household matters, today’s butlers may be responsible for everything from installing software to keeping up with the latest smart home technologies. In other words, if you enjoy the act of problem solving, life as a butler may be an unexpected path toward fulfillment.

And then there are the perks. Butlers live in the world’s most luxurious places with all of their expenses paid. Many even have their own luxury apartments or cottages adjacent to their employer’s main living space. Others work at resorts or as lifestyle consultants. Factor in unbeatable benefits, high pay -- some “household managers” make up to $300,000 a year -- and the chance to hobnob with the world rich and famous, and the benefits of pursuing a career as a butler or housekeeper become even more evident.

3. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Sure you can go to China to learn ancient alternative techniques including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and Qigong, or you can go to….Ireland? The Irish College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (ICTCM) offers a multitude of part-time professional courses as well as postgraduate certificate, diploma and degree programs in this increasingly sought after field.

Business Insider recently reported on the “enormous market” for TCM as young people throughout the world are turning to alternative techniques to replace or complement western medicine. If you’re looking for exposure to not one but two amazing cultures; to make a difference in the lives of others; and to position yourself for an in-demand career, ICTCM’s TCM program offers rare potential.

Even better? Grads of ICTCM are immediately ready to start sharing their newfound healing talents with others than to automatic membership in the Professional Register of Chinese Medicine (ICTCM).

4. Weapons of Mass Destruction Preparedness

The September 11, 2001 tragedy in the United States along with the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks around the globe have revealed to the world eye-opening vulnerabilities, along with the need to be ready for what may come next. American Public University’s Associate of Arts in Weapons of Mass Destruction Preparedness provides actionable insights into why prior attacks happened, and how we can prevent or at least be ready for future attempts. As political and military leaders continue to explore strategies for safeguarding the world from terrorist threats, they’ll need the counsel of experts in the areas of everything from terrorist motivations and countermeasures to regulatory issues and consequence management.

And because this course is 100 percent online, students from diverse backgrounds gain unprecedented access...not only to the complex and critical area of homeland security, but also to the potential to take on key roles in defending against future attacks.

And these are just a small sampling of the lesser-known degrees out there waiting to be discovered. From Viking Studies and Viticulture to Surf Science and The Beatles, the list goes on. The takeaway for today’s degree-seeking students? Before settling on a course of study because it’s popular and well-known, taking time to understand all of your options can lead you to a degree that’s not just a good fit, but an amazing one.