career

Top 10 Unusual University Degrees That Actually Lead to Real Careers

Nadya Sharfina · July 31, 2025 · Leave a Comment

"Top universities are offering degrees you’ve never heard of, for industries that are just beginning to take shape."

As parents explore higher education options, it’s natural to focus on familiar subjects like engineering, medicine, law, or business. These fields have long been seen as dependable choices and for good reason. Beyond these traditional paths, there’s a whole world of unusual and fascinating degrees offered by top universities around the globe.

Some of these programs might sound surprising at first—perhaps even a little unconventional. You may find yourself wondering, Can someone really build a career with that? The answer is yes. These degrees are carefully designed, academically rigorous, and connected to growing industries and cultural sectors.

1. Manga Studies

Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante on Unsplash

If your teen spends hours immersed in One Piece, gets emotional over Attack on Titan, or knows every scene from One Punch Man and Death Note by heart, they might be thrilled to discover that there’s an actual university degree tailored to their passion. Welcome to the fascinating world of Manga Studies.

Offered at Kyoto Seika University in Japan, the only university with a dedicated Faculty of Manga, this program allows students to explore manga not just as entertainment, but as a serious art form and cultural force. The curriculum includes five distinct areas of focus: Cartoon Art, Comic Art, New Generation Manga, Character Design, and Animation. It’s more than drawing and storytelling; students also dive into the cultural, historical, and artistic roots of manga as a major part of Japanese and global pop culture. Courses are taught by experienced professionals, including renowned manga artists, illustrators, and animation directors.

Graduates of the program go on to pursue careers in manga creation, publishing, animation, and even academia, contributing to cultural studies and research related to manga and visual storytelling. For students with a deep love for manga and a creative spark, this could be a truly fulfilling path.

2. Bicycle Design and Fabrication

For students who love working with their hands, enjoy biking, or have an eye for design and mechanics, the Bicycle Design and Fabrication program at Minnesota State College Southeast offers a refreshingly hands-on alternative to a traditional classroom path.

This two-year associate of applied science degree gives students the opportunity to actually design and build a fully customized bicycle. Along the way, they gain practical experience in metal fabrication, 3D printing, and mechanical design. Lab-based courses include welding, prototyping, computer-aided drawing and design (CAD), and computer-aided manufacturing and machining (CAM). The program blends creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving into a highly specialized craft.

Graduates often pursue careers in the bicycle industry, but the skills they develop open doors in other areas as well, including fabrication, mechanical design, manufacturing, and engineering technology.

3. Bakery Science

At Kansas State University, students can pursue a unique path that blends science, creativity, and hands-on experience. As the only university in the U.S. offering a four-year bachelor’s degree in Bakery Science and Management, it provides a rare opportunity to turn a passion for baking into a professional career.

The program begins with a strong foundation in baking principles, then allows students to choose one of two specialized tracks by their second year: cereal chemistry, which explores the science behind ingredients and formulations, or production management, which focuses on running large-scale baking operations efficiently and safely.

State-of-the-art labs support learning in real-world environments. These include a pilot-scale bakery, a fully operational flour mill, and a food extrusion lab, all designed to prepare students with practical skills and industry-level experience.

Graduates are equipped to step into roles in commercial bakeries, product development, quality testing labs, and food service operations. This degree offers a direct route into a field that combines food science, manufacturing, and innovation.

4. Egyptology and Assyriology

Some young people dream of unearthing lost civilizations, studying ancient scripts, or working on archaeological digs. If that sounds familiar, Brown University offers a unique academic path through its Department of Egyptology and Assyriology, one of the few in the country with this level of specialization.

The program offers two distinct tracks: Egyptology, which focuses on the history, language, and culture of ancient Egypt, and Assyriology, which centers on ancient Mesopotamia, including regions like Assyria and Babylonia. Both tracks offer a deep dive into civilizations that laid the foundations for law, literature, architecture, and religion as we know them today.

Each student in the program completes at least ten courses that explore the complexities of these ancient societies. Egyptology classes cover topics such as ancient Egyptian history, archaeology, temples, and tombs. The Assyriology track includes courses in the history and culture of Mesopotamia, ancient scholarly traditions, and the archaeology of surrounding regions.This field can lead to careers in archaeology, anthropology, museums, academia, and cultural preservation.

5. Viking and Medieval Norse Studies

For those drawn to stories of longships, ancient sagas, and the dramatic landscapes of Scandinavia, Viking and Medieval Norse Studies opens the door to a truly immersive academic experience. Graduates of this program often pursue careers as museum curators, cultural historians, or tour guides, sharing their knowledge of the Viking Age and medieval Scandinavia with the wider world.

At the University of Oslo in Norway, students explore this rich and adventurous past through a unique program that combines historical research with cultural studies. Coursework focuses on early Norse literature, mythology, medieval texts, and the societal structures of the time. It’s a chance to engage with primary sources and examine how this distinct culture shaped European history.

6. Theme Park Engineering

Behind every thrilling roller coaster and immersive attraction is a team of engineers who bring creativity and precision together. At California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), students can explore this world through a Bachelor of Science in Amusement Park Engineering, a program that focuses on designing and building the rides that define the theme park experience.

The curriculum blends technical knowledge with imaginative thinking. Courses cover topics like ride dynamics, safety systems, physics, and mechanical design, along with hands-on projects where students can prototype and test their own ideas.

Graduates of the program often go on to work as ride design engineers, safety inspectors, or project managers within the amusement park industry.

7. Foresight

Ever wondered who helps businesses or governments prepare for what’s coming next? The ability to anticipate change and plan ahead isn’t just a skill, it’s a field of study. At the University of Houston, students can earn a Master of Science in Foresight, learning how to analyze trends, explore possibilities, and help organizations prepare for an uncertain world.

This graduate program focuses on future thinking, training students to look ahead and recognize what might be needed five, ten, or even fifty years down the road. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including futures research, world futures, systems thinking, social change, and advanced strategy for planning. The curriculum offers both a theoretical and applied understanding of how change happens and how to respond to it.

The program is offered entirely online and can be completed in one year full-time or three to five years part-time. Graduates often move into careers in strategic planning, innovation consulting, policy development, and forecasting roles across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

8. Bagpiping

Photo by Wender Junior Souza Vieira on Pexels

Known for its powerful, unmistakable sound, the bagpipe is a traditional Scottish instrument with a deep cultural legacy. At Carnegie Mellon University, students can pursue a unique degree in Bagpiping that combines musical instruction with an appreciation of the instrument’s heritage.

The program includes training in performance techniques, music theory, and ensemble participation. Practice takes place in specially designed soundproof studios, allowing students to focus fully on their craft without impacting others on campus.

Outside the classroom, students take part in public performances and competitions, some attracting large audiences. These opportunities help sharpen technical skills while also building stage presence and confidence.

Graduates often go on to perform professionally or teach music, carrying forward the tradition of bagpiping in meaningful and modern ways.

9. Adventure Education

At Plymouth State University (PSU) in New Hampshire, the Bachelor of Science in Adventure Education program offers a unique opportunity to turn a passion for the outdoors into a purposeful degree. This hands-on program combines physical challenge, experiential learning, and leadership development.

Courses include a wide range of outdoor skills such as rock climbing, wilderness survival, canoeing, backpacking, and mountaineering. The experience is immersive, designed to foster confidence, adaptability, and strong teamwork in dynamic natural settings.

Ideal for those who enjoy being in nature and sharing that experience with others, the program helps students develop leadership abilities, guide groups through challenges, and gain practical knowledge that can be applied in many professional settings.

Graduates are well prepared for careers in outdoor education, adventure tourism, recreational therapy, and environmental education.

10. Puppet Arts

Graduates of puppet arts programs often find careers in theater companies, television and film, or education, where they use creativity and craftsmanship to tell engaging stories. Some go on to design and build puppets for stage productions or work on well-known entertainment projects, blending performance with visual artistry.

Since 1964, the University of Connecticut (UConn) has been at the forefront of puppetry education, offering one of the most comprehensive programs in the country. As one of only three U.S. universities to offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Puppet Arts, UConn also provides master’s degree options for students looking to advance even further.

The program gives students hands-on experience in puppetry techniques, design, and production, with classes beginning as early as their first semester. About two-thirds of their coursework is focused on puppet arts, including theater production, puppet construction, and performance skills.

For parents looking to explore educational options for passionate kids, be sure to check out ‘5 Educational Courses for Kids in the Holidays’ and ‘6 Fun Holiday Camps for Teens in Singapore’

Getting It Done: Parenting with a Full-Time Job

Nadya Sharfina · January 31, 2025 · Leave a Comment

"Balancing a full-time job and parenting is never easy, but the key is learning to prioritize what truly matters—giving your best at work while still being present for your family."

Balancing work and life is a challenge for many parents, especially when you’re juggling a full-time job and full-time parenting. The responsibilities can feel endless, and each day brings its own set of demands.

With both a career and a family to care for, your responsibilities are much bigger than before. Your schedule is no longer just about work anymore. The trick is learning how to balance it all without losing sight of what matters most to you, both at work and at home. So, how do you manage to give your best at work and still be the parent you want to be?

Finding the Right Balance

Balancing parenting with a full-time job often feels like walking a tightrope. The first step is identifying what needs immediate attention and what can wait. Some days, your child might need extra support with homework, while on others, a major work deadline takes centre stage. It’s all about knowing where your focus is needed most and being okay with letting less urgent tasks slide temporarily.

Planning and structuring your workdays is another lifesaver. A clear plan can help set boundaries and expectations. But no matter how organized you are, flexibility is essential. Life rarely goes as planned, so learning to adapt on a day-to-day basis helps you show up as the best parent, co-worker, and partner you can be.

Some situations demand tough decisions, like a work trip to another country. You might have to ask: can your spouse handle things at home while you’re away? Would it work for your child to stay with their grandparents for a few days? Or maybe, after weighing the options, you decide the trip isn’t feasible because your child needs you. These moments require sacrifices, but knowing your priorities helps you make the right call for your family and career.

Flexibility means being ready to adapt your plans when life throws a curveball. It’s okay to shift gears, rearrange schedules, or even say “no” when necessary.

Set Up a Family Calendar

Life gets hectic—work deadlines, school events, doctor’s appointments, and countless errands in between. With so much happening, it’s easy to miss important tasks or accidentally double-book. That’s where a family calendar can make all the difference. It keeps everything organised and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

By adding events like school plays or work deadlines as soon as you hear about them, you save yourself the mental stress of trying to remember it all. Consider creating a shared digital calendar, like Google Calendar or using apps like Cozi, Motion or Fantastical, that everyone in the family can access from their phones. This way, you and your partner can stay updated on each other’s commitments and adjust plans as needed. If digital isn’t your style, a physical calendar works just as well. Hang it in a central spot, like the kitchen or the fridge, where everyone can easily check it.

Talk to Your Employer About Family Commitments

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Be open and honest with your employer about your new responsibilities as a parent. Let them know that, along with your professional duties, you now have caregiving responsibilities at home. When your employer understands this, it paves the way for flexibility and support during times when your family needs you the most.

Take the initiative to ask about your company’s policies regarding illness, especially in cases of caring for sick children. It’s important to know whether you can work from home if your child is unwell or if there’s an option for a flexible schedule. Many employers are willing to accommodate these situations, so don’t hesitate to enquire about what’s available to you. Check out: How to Balance Working from Home and Being a Parent.

Maintaining a healthy environment at work is just as important as creating one at home. When your employer understands your needs as a parent, and you have clear policies in place, you’re more likely to thrive in both roles.

Designate Special Time with Your Child

It’s easy to feel a pang of guilt about not spending as much time with your children as you’d like as a working parent. However, it’s not about how many hours you’re together—it’s about making those moments meaningful. Kids thrive on the connection they feel with you, even in small doses.

Take an hour in the evening, for example. Play a game that gets everyone laughing, snuggle up with a book, or simply chat about their day. Ask questions about school, friends, or what made them happy that day.

If your child loves being involved, consider letting them help with everyday tasks. Cooking dinner together can become a fun activity rather than a chore, with them stirring, measuring, or taste-testing. Check out: Smart Food Choices for Kids’ During Exams.

On weekends, try a DIY project like building a birdhouse, painting, or making a scrapbook. These activities are fun, creative, and a great way to bond while making memories. Check out: 5 Exciting DIY Projects for Children to Create at Home.

Save Some Time for Yourself

Life as a working parent can feel incredibly full and busy, but carving out time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Taking care of your own well-being helps you stay mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy, which makes you a better parent and person overall.

Having time for hobbies or relaxation is a great way to avoid burnout and reduce stress. Simple activities like reading a book in the bath, going for a walk, or treating yourself to a spa day can bring balance to your life and help you recharge. These moments of self-care keep you grounded and allow you to be more present and patient with your kids.

You don’t need to plan anything extravagant like a solo trip (unless you want to!). Start small—pick an activity that makes you happy and fits into your schedule. And don’t hesitate to lean on others for support. Family members or friends can step in to watch your kids while you take time for yourself.

Laughing Through the Mess

Despite your best efforts to stay organised and on top of everything, there will be days when nothing goes according to plan. The alarm doesn’t go off, breakfast gets burned, someone forgets their homework, and you feel like you’re barely holding it together. These moments can be overwhelming, but they’re also a natural part of balancing work and parenting.

Instead of striving for perfection, try to embrace the chaos. It’s okay to have bad days—it doesn’t make you a bad parent or mean you’re not doing enough. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s what matters most.

Balancing a full-time job and parenting, especially as a single parent, is no small feat. It’s one of the toughest challenges out there, but it’s also one filled with love, resilience, and growth. On the hard days, remind yourself that it’s okay to laugh at the little disasters and let go of what’s out of your control.

How Should I Choose My Subject Combination?

Rebecca Samuel · April 5, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Success and Happiness are choices, not destinations, and the subject combination you pick will not ultimately decide your fate."

We should play a game here. Two Lies One Truth, figure out which statement is true.

Statement 1: The subject combination I pick will determine the course of the rest of my life.

Statement 2: Following my interests will be my best bet.

Statement 3: The ‘triple science’ combination is the safest, and I can’t go wrong with it.

I will not be surprised to hear that most of you can’t figure out the truth because you have been told over and over again, that there is a set way of doing things, a ‘safe’ way, a way to ‘not make a mistake’.

Newsflash: Statement 1 and 3 are false, and anyone who tells you, a 14 year old, that it’s possible to not ‘go wrong’ in life, is the biggest liar of all. Let’s get one fact out of the way, and the gentle truth is, you are going to make mistakes. Big ones and small ones. Some of you will make more mistakes than others, and some of you (like me) will trace a bit of the confusion in your life back to the point where you picked your subject combination at the end of Secondary Two. What is important to understand, is that life can get both weird and wonderful, promising and perplexing all at once, and that learning how to deal with it all is the real secret to success, and certainly not determined by the ‘perfect’ subject combination.

Let’s take a look at Statement 1 for instance. “The subject combination I pick will determine the course of the rest of my life.” It is possible that not taking all the sciences might lead to you not obtaining a compulsory course, a requirement or prerequisite for Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmaceutical or Forensic Science and so on. The first question to ask yourself here then, is whether your heart already knows where it’s going. Not your mom’s or dad’s or grandma’s heart, but yours. Have you been dreaming about a career in medicine since you were in diapers? Are you genuinely interested in branches of medicine? Will the ability to heal others give you a sense of fulfillment? Do your grades also reflect this interest? Grades aren’t everything but let’s face it, if you’ve spent many nights losing hair and struggling to bond with the elements, you don’t really see yourself getting to know them even better over the next two years do you. The fact of the matter is, if you already know beyond the shadow of a doubt where you’re headed, one bad grade or nay saying teacher will not stop you, you will find a way to meet your destiny come hell or high water.

Let’s take a look at the vast majority of students however. You don’t know what you want, and you have no idea who or what you’re going to be when you grow up. Heck you barely know who you are right now. You should not then allow this decision to plague your life. Go with the subjects that you find more interesting, or at the very least, that you find easier to score in. Don’t refer to just your final grade, but your entire journey with the subject so far. Did you really enjoy that Shakespeare group presentation you had to do way back in Term 1? Did the transfer of sound energy through vibrations cause a reverberation in your mind? Are quadratic equations actually – secretly – kind of… fun?

Remember that life is a continuous journey of growth and exploration. Know that whatever decision you make right now is not the end of the world. You are going to go on to graduate secondary school, further your education in whichever field you see fit, go out into the working world and then see that there are even more possibilities out there for you, and that ultimately, you determine your own path.

Steve Jobs told the world to “have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.” I will leave that here for you.