Astrobiology

Where you can study this: University of Washington, UCLA, Cornell University.

Initial Assumption: Someone that studies the biology of planets? I guess? That doesn’t really make any sense.

Careers: Astrobiologist, Astronomer, Astrologist.

The study of the exploration of life outside of the Earth. It’s not so much of a weird thing itself, but it’s hard to imagine basing a whole course on something absolute geniuses are struggling to understand. Maybe that is why it’s starting to become a option in college. They aren’t studying how to find what most people think of extraterrestrial life (they’re not trying to find E.T. himself, although that would be cool), but they are learning to find real living things, and scientists across the world are actually succeeding in small ways. Russian Robots on Mars have claimed to find living bacteria, which would help to find out the origins of the human race. This is also the basis of what these UW students are studying.

Race Track Industry

Where you can study this: University of Arizona. And that’s it.

Initial Assumption: Study of NASCAR racing.

Careers: Horse breeder, Racing Investor, Accountant, Financial Consultant.

This is the study of all the different things that happen on a horse track, from the betting to the breeding. This can lead to a job in business or in the biological studies of horses and how they grow. Although the race track industry in on the decline, it can reel in some huge paychecks if a job is found.

Nautical Archaeology

Where you can study this: Texas A&M University, University of West Florida, Michigan State University.

Initial Assumption: Study of old ships.

Careers: Nautical Archaeologist, Maritime Archaeologist, Investigative Explorer, Scuba Trainer.

The study of the remains of boats and ships that are found. This course uses ancient boats and ships to find out about cultures and nations that created them. Although this is an interesting major, the recipients of this degree will have trouble finding jobs. They could possibly teach the classes that got them the degree (taking part in the educational vicious cycle), but other jobs are limited.

Cannabis Cultivation

Where you can study this: University of Colorado, Oaksterdam University, University of Wisconsin.

Initial assumption: Growing and farming weed.

Careers: Medical Physicians, Medical Dispensary Operator or Administrator, Cannabis Growers.

What it actually is: With the legalization of medical cannabis growing among the states in the U.S., a new generation of professional growers, caretakers, and patients are seeking guidance regarding the best way to grow marijuana. To provide education about this profession, colleges have just recently began education the profession. Cannabis Cultivation majors learns everything about cannabis growing techniques to the various state laws that allow the plant to be grown safely and legally.

Bakery Science

Where you can study this: The Culinary Institute of America, Emily Griffith Technical College, Johnson & Wales University.

Initial assumption: The art of baking cakes and pastries.

Careers: Baker, Pastry Cook, Assistant Chef.

What it actually is: A more complex major than its name may suggest, students learn about the chemical processes involved in baking just about everything. A Bakery Science major allows students to learn the production process, the function of ingredients, and nutrition. This major also teaches the business side of baking including the government regulations for food products and productions as well as all there is to know about running a successful bakery operation.

Popular Culture

Where you can study this: Bowling Green State University, Western Kentucky University, University of Washington.

Initial assumption: The examination of the Internet and mass media.

Careers associated with it: Journalism, Advertising, Mass Media, Public Relations.

What it actually is: Students who love movies, TV shows, magazines, and comedy are certainly a strong contestant for a Popular Culture major. This major studies everyday life, including a majority of what is mass produced by us for us. By examining television shows, movies, music, celebrities, and magazines, their cultural insight can be used to examine society presently and historically.

Fermentation Science

Where you can study this: Appalachian State University, Oregon State University, Colorado State University.

Initial assumption: The making of alcohol.

Careers associated with it: Winemaking, Brewing, Cheesemaking.

What it actually is: For anyone who wants to own or operate their own distillery, this major is a strong contender. A Fermentation Science major applies the science of using microorganisms as processing agents in the production of wine and beer as well as cheese, yogurt, pickles, and other fermented foods. The major addresses biological, chemical and physical concepts of fermentation along with the engineering, processing, preserving, and public health aspects of beer, wine, and fermented food products.