13 Unusual UK Degree Courses You Should Consider Taking

Introduction

While traditional degrees in business, law, and medicine remain popular, the UK offers a wealth of unusual and unconventional degree courses that can lead to fascinating careers and personal fulfillment. These unique programs challenge conventional thinking, develop specialized skills, and open doors to niche but rewarding professional fields. This guide explores 13 distinctive degree courses that stand out from the typical university offerings.

1. Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity

Protect digital worlds from cyber threats through specialized training in ethical hacking, penetration testing, and cybersecurity defense strategies.

Course Highlights:

• Practical skills: Real-world hacking simulations and defense techniques
• Industry certifications: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and CompTIA Security+
• Career paths: Cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester, security consultant
• Universities: University of Bristol, Royal Holloway London

Why Unique: Combines computer science with investigative skills, like being a digital detective.

2. Brewing and Distilling

Master the art and science of creating beer, spirits, and other alcoholic beverages through hands-on training in fermentation, distillation, and quality control.

Course Features:

• Laboratory work: State-of-the-art brewing facilities and sensory analysis
• Industry partnerships: Collaborations with major breweries and distilleries
• Business aspects: Marketing, distribution, and entrepreneurship in the beverage industry
• Universities: Heriot-Watt University, University of Nottingham

Why Unique: Turns a hobby into a professional career in the growing craft beverage industry.

3. Forensic Science with Criminology

Combine scientific investigation techniques with criminal psychology to solve crimes and understand criminal behavior.

Program Components:

• Crime scene analysis: Evidence collection and laboratory testing
• Criminal profiling: Psychological analysis of offenders
• Legal procedures: Courtroom presentation and chain of evidence
• Universities: University of Dundee, University of Lincoln

Why Unique: Like being a real-life CSI investigator with psychological insights.

4. Marine Biology and Ocean Exploration

Study marine ecosystems, oceanography, and underwater research techniques for careers in marine conservation and exploration.

Course Elements:

• Underwater research: SCUBA diving and submersible operations
• Marine conservation: Environmental impact assessment and protection strategies
• Ocean technology: Use of ROVs and underwater drones
• Universities: University of Plymouth, University of Aberdeen

Why Unique: Live and work in some of the most beautiful and remote places on Earth.

5. Puppetry and Performance Design

Develop skills in puppet creation, manipulation, and theatrical performance for careers in entertainment, education, and therapy.

Creative Components:

• Puppet construction: Building marionettes, hand puppets, and digital puppets
• Performance techniques: Voice work, movement, and character development
• Technical skills: Lighting, sound, and stage management
• Universities: University of Central Lancashire, University of the Arts London

Why Unique: Combines artistry with technical theater skills in a highly specialized field.

6. Viticulture and Wine Production

Learn the science and art of grape growing, winemaking, and vineyard management in the UK's emerging wine regions.

Program Focus:

• Vineyard management: Soil science, pest control, and sustainable farming
• Winemaking processes: Fermentation, aging, and quality control
• Sensory evaluation: Wine tasting, judging, and description
• Universities: Plumpton College, University of Brighton

Why Unique: The UK wine industry is growing rapidly, creating exciting career opportunities.

7. Aviation Management and Pilot Studies

Combine aviation technology with business management for careers in airline operations, airport management, and aviation consulting.

Course Structure:

• Flight operations: Air traffic control and pilot training integration
• Business management: Aviation finance, marketing, and strategy
• Safety and regulations: Aviation law and safety management systems
• Universities: Cranfield University, University of Westminster

Why Unique: Work in one of the world's most dynamic and fast-paced industries.

8. Surf Science and Coastal Management

Study oceanography, coastal engineering, and environmental science with a focus on surfing culture and coastal sustainability.

Academic Areas:

• Ocean dynamics: Wave science and coastal processes
• Environmental impact: Coastal development and conservation
• Surf technology: Board design and water safety equipment
• Universities: University of Plymouth, University of Exeter

Why Unique: Combines academic rigor with outdoor adventure and environmental activism.

9. Animation and Visual Effects

Master digital animation, 3D modeling, and visual effects production for careers in film, gaming, and interactive media.

Technical Skills:

• 3D animation: Character animation and motion graphics
• Visual effects: Compositing and digital enhancement
• Software proficiency: Maya, Houdini, Nuke, and industry-standard tools
• Universities: University of the Arts London, Bournemouth University

Why Unique: Work on blockbuster films and cutting-edge video games.

10. Forensic Archaeology

Combine archaeological techniques with forensic science to investigate crimes, mass disasters, and human rights violations.

Specialized Training:

• Excavation methods: Crime scene archaeology and evidence recovery
• Human remains analysis: Forensic anthropology and identification
• International investigations: War crimes and human rights casework
• Universities: University of Bradford, Cranfield University

Why Unique: Like Indiana Jones meets Quincy, solving real-world mysteries.

11. Music Technology and Production

Learn to create, record, and produce music using cutting-edge technology and industry-standard equipment.

Production Skills:

• Recording techniques: Studio production and live sound engineering
• Music software: Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and digital audio workstations
• Sound design: Foley work and audio post-production
• Universities: University of Westminster, Leeds Beckett University

Why Unique: Turn your passion for music into a technical career behind the scenes.

12. Drone Technology and Applications

Study unmanned aerial systems, drone programming, and applications in surveying, agriculture, and emergency response.

Technical Focus:

• Drone operations: Flight planning and remote piloting
• Data analysis: Aerial photography and sensor integration
• Regulatory compliance: Aviation law and safety standards
• Universities: University of South Wales, University of Sheffield

Why Unique: Work in the rapidly growing drone industry with applications from farming to filmmaking.

13. Cultural Heritage Management

Preserve and manage historical sites, artifacts, and cultural traditions through specialized training in heritage conservation.

Program Areas:

• Heritage conservation: Preservation techniques and materials science
• Cultural management: Museum curation and exhibition design
• Digital heritage: 3D scanning and virtual reality applications
• Universities: University of York, University College London

Why Unique: Protect the past while shaping the future of cultural preservation.

Choosing the Right Unusual Degree

Factors to Consider

• Personal passion: Choose subjects that genuinely interest you
• Career prospects: Research graduate employment rates and salaries
• Location preferences: Consider universities in areas matching your lifestyle
• Entry requirements: Check academic prerequisites and portfolio needs
• Practical experience: Look for programs with industry placements

Admission Tips for Unusual Courses

• Portfolio preparation: Many creative courses require portfolios
• Relevant experience: Gain practical skills before applying
• Open mind: Be prepared for unconventional assessment methods
• Flexibility: Some courses may require relocation or travel

Career Prospects and Salary Expectations

High-Demand Fields

• Cybersecurity: ┬ú35,000-┬ú80,000 starting salaries
• Drone technology: ┬ú25,000-┬ú50,000 for entry positions
• Animation/VFX: ┬ú20,000-┬ú40,000 with portfolio credits
• Forensic science: ┬ú22,000-┬ú35,000 for graduate roles

Emerging Opportunities

• Sustainable brewing: Growing craft beverage industry
• Marine conservation: Environmental sector expansion
• Cultural heritage: Digital preservation technologies
• Aviation management: Global travel industry recovery

University Rankings for Unusual Courses

Top Universities for Specialized Programs

• University of Plymouth: Marine biology and surf science
• Cranfield University: Aviation and forensic programs
• University of the Arts London: Creative technology courses
• Heriot-Watt University: Brewing and energy programs

Program Accreditation

• Industry partnerships: Programs with professional body recognition
• Equipment standards: Access to professional-grade facilities
• Graduate outcomes: Track record of employment success
• Research excellence: Institutions with strong research reputations

Financing Your Unusual Degree

Scholarship Opportunities

• Subject-specific awards: Scholarships for niche disciplines
• University bursaries: Institutional funding for unique programs
• Industry sponsorship: Companies supporting specialized training
• Research grants: Funding for innovative research projects

Budget Considerations

• Equipment costs: Specialized courses may require additional investment
• Location factors: Rural universities may have lower living costs
• Travel expenses: Fieldwork and industry placements
• Portfolio development: Costs for creative course applications

Conclusion

Unusual degree courses in the UK offer incredible opportunities to pursue passions, develop unique skills, and enter exciting career fields. From ethical hacking to puppetry, these programs challenge conventional education and prepare students for innovative careers that make a difference.

While these courses may seem unconventional, they often lead to highly rewarding careers with excellent job prospects and personal fulfillment. The key is to choose a program that aligns with your interests, strengths, and career goals. With the right choice, an unusual degree can become the foundation for a remarkable professional journey.

Remember to research thoroughly, visit universities, and speak with current students and graduates to ensure the course meets your expectations. The most unusual paths often lead to the most extraordinary destinations.