Seven unusual degrees you might not have thought of

If you are having problems finding a degree course that feels like the right choice for you, then take a look at some of the slightly less orthodox degree programmes that are being offered all over the world.

Cruise management, Plymouth University, UK

This full-time three-year degree course will prep you for a career in the cruise ship industry. This vocational course covers all the main aspects of the business and works with key partners to provide work experience and career opportunities after graduation. Modules include food and drink management, cruise and maritime operations and tourism, human resources and competitive advantage. There is also the opportunity to learn French, German or Mandarin within the course. 

Floral management - Mississippi State University, US

Floral management at Mississippi State University provides students with education in retailing, wholesaling, special event designing, and display gardening. You will learn everything you need to know about working with various flowers and plants. Some of the careers open to graduates are freelance floral design, hotel/casino hospitality floriculture management, traditional and concept floriculture retailing, wedding and bridal design planning and wholesale floral management.

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History of video games and interactive media - University of Victoria, Canada

Rather than a degree in itself, this is a module offered at the University of Victoria as part of the art history and culture degree. It "explores the cultural role of video games as an interactive visual medium", the website says. Students will learn about new genres and technological innovations, the influence of different games and designers and the representation of race and gender within video games. A module where you can spend three hours playing Call of Duty and call it homework sounds pretty appealing. 

Puppet arts - University of Connecticut, US

Puppetry classes have been offered at the University of Connecticut since 1964 and demand for this course has grown and grown. But these are not just puppets made from socks, pom poms and googly eyes. Students learn to make and operate beautifully crafted and detailed puppets and are encouraged to stage their own shows with their creations. Nearly 500 student puppet productions have been presented since 1964 and students go on to work in the theatre and the film and TV industry. 

Brewing and distilling - Heriot-Watt University, UK

If you would like to learn how to make your own beer and ale, then this is the perfect course for you. The course is accredited by the Institute of Brewing and Distilling and works with senior representatives of the brewing, malting and distilling industries. Students will learn about the science and technology behind all of the brewing and distilling processes from cereal farming to bottling and packaging. And if you think that an undergraduate degree isn't enough, you can take this on at master's level too. 

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Turfgrass science - Pennsylvania State University, US

if you have a life-long ambition to manage golf courses and athletic fields or to go into professional lawn care, this is the perfect degree for you. This major combines basic and applied science, business management and an internship to prepare them for a career or further graduate study in turfgrass science. Students are also able to adapt the programme based on their individual interests and future career plans.  

Glass - University of Edinburgh, UK

From grass to glass. The University of Edinburgh. 

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