Hey folks, so I'm currently in the process of searching for the right college degree for me. I'm obviously aware of the more popular degrees out there, but I'm interested in knowing more about some of the underrated ones that people might not think about. Any pointers or starting points would be much appreciated!
While each individual's definition of an 'underrated' degree may vary, I'll provide some avenues for investigating lesser-known or overlooked programs that could suit your interests well.
College Websites: Visit the official websites of universities you are considering. Look for a 'Programs' or 'Degrees' button on the main navigation bar, and explore all the majors, minors, and interdisciplinary programs on offer. A lot of colleges and universities offer unique majors that are tailored to their specific strengths and that may not be common elsewhere.
College Fairs: Attend local or virtual college fairs where you can meet representatives from different colleges. This is a great time to ask about unique programs that may fit your interests.
Online Search: Use keywords related to your interest areas to search for unconventional degrees. For example, if you're intrigued by the nexus of technology and art, searching 'Art and Technology degree' might lead you to programs like Integrated Digital Media at NYU or Computational Media at Georgia Tech.
College Catalogs: Some colleges offer downloadable course catalogs, giving you the complete list of programs and courses. Glance through the list, don't just stick to familiar department names. For example, at Cornell University, you would find unique programs like Viticulture and Enology under the School of Integrative Plant Science.
Career Center: Get in touch with a counselor at your school's career center. They will have a wealth of resources to assist you in finding majors that align with your career goals and might be aware of the uncommon ones.
Curriculum Maps: Look at these to get an insight into what a major may involve in terms of required courses. A seemingly mundane major might involve exciting classes!
Remember, the goal isn't to major in something obscure for the sake of being unique but to find a program that aligns with your interests and ambitions. It's also worth considering how the skills you gain from an underrated degree can be applied in the job market after graduation.
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