Many colleges offer at least one strange courses that students find unusual or intriguing. This could range from a practical session on avalanche precautions, to a workshop on ice cream production.
To a linguistic dive into Elvish from “Lord of the Rings.” These classes often leave a lasting impression. When selecting a college, explore both the mandatory curriculum and the engaging electives on offer.
Very Strange College Courses
1. The Geography of Wine
offered at Arizona State University, This isn’t just about sipping wine; it’s about understanding its origin, distribution, and the geopolitical implications of viticulture. Students explore the historical migration of the grapevine, wine production regions, and the environmental challenges associated with viticulture.
2. Paintball Kinesiology
offered at Texas A&M University, Sports science meets the world of paintball. This course delves into the biomechanics of paintball, helping participants understand movement, tactics, and how the body responds during a game.
3. Vampire: Blood and Empire
offered at the University of Pittsburgh Fascinated by Dracula? This course explores the history and myth of vampires in Eastern Europe, from folklore to their representation in media, drawing links between vampiric myths and historical events.
4. DJing and Turntablism
Offered at the Berklee College of Music, Move over, to traditional music classes. This course allows students to dive deep into the art of DJing, from beat-matching and mixing to scratching and sampling, all while understanding the cultural impact of turntablism.
5. Ice Cream Short Course
Offered at Pennsylvania State University, While it sounds like a dessert lover’s dream, this course is scientifically sweet. Students learn about the chemistry behind ice cream production, the microbiology of ingredients, and the business side of the ice cream industry.
6. Sabermetrics 101: Introduction to Baseball Analytics
offered at Boston University For those unacquainted, sabermetrics is the empirical analysis of baseball statistics. This course teaches students how to use statistical data to evaluate and predict baseball player performance.
7. All Too Well (Ten-Week Version)
Offered at Stanford University Inspired by Taylor Swift’s iconic song, this course delves into the nuanced art of storytelling, lyricism, and the cultural implications of one of the most impactful songs of its time.
8. Zombies
Offered at George Mason University, While it sounds like a course for Halloween enthusiasts, it’s more profound than that. Students delve into the portrayal of zombies in media and literature, examining societal fears and the philosophical aspects of zombification.
9. Avalanche Level 1 and Rescue
Offered at Fort Lewis College, an essential course for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals, this class educates students about the science of avalanches, safety measures, and rescue techniques, blending theory with hands-on training.
10. Golf Course Design & Construction
Offered at the University of Maryland Beyond just playing golf, this course teaches students about the intricacies of designing and building a golf course. Topics include landscape architecture, turfgrass management, and the environmental implications of golf course construction.
Very Strange College Courses
- The Geography of Wine
- Paintball Kinesiology
- Vampire: Blood and Empire
- DJing and Turntablism
- Ice Cream Short Course
- Sabermetrics 101: Introduction to Baseball Analytics
- All Too Well (Ten Week Version)
- Zombies
- Avalanche Level 1 and Rescue
- Golf Course Design & Construction
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why would anyone study the “Geography of Wine”?
While it may sound niche, the Geography of Wine offers insights into the environmental, historical, and geopolitical factors that influence viticulture. It’s not just about tasting wine but understanding its origins and global impact.
2. Is “Paintball Kinesiology” really about playing paintball?
While paintball is a central theme, the course focuses on the biomechanics of the game, helping participants understand movement, tactics, and how the body responds during play. It’s an intersection of sports science and an increasingly popular game.
3. How does “All Too Well (Ten Week Version)” relate to academics?
This course uses the song as a case study to delve into the nuanced art of storytelling, lyricism, and its broader cultural implications, reflecting on how music can shape and influence society.
4. Do students actually deal with zombies in the “Zombies” course?
No, they don’t encounter real zombies! The course looks at the portrayal of zombies in media and literature, providing a platform to discuss societal fears, existential questions, and cultural shifts.
5. Are the skills learned in “Avalanche Level 1 and Rescue” applicable in real-life situations?
Absolutely. This course provides vital knowledge and hands-on training for those who might venture into avalanche-prone areas, ensuring they’re equipped with the necessary skills to assess risks and execute rescue operations if needed.
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