7 weird and wonderful uni courses you didn’t know existed.

FOLLOW the least-trodden academic path with these weird and wonderful courses.

Studying circus arts means never being scolded for hanging upside.

WHEN it comes to study, the number of law, medicine, and business courses definitately outweigh the more unusual courses — brewing, surf science, how to survive the zombie apocalypse — think of the awesome reading list alone!

Here are seven of the most unusual courses and their Melbourne equilivents.

Studying circus arts means never being scolded for hanging upside in class.

1. Contemporary Circus and Physical Performance

University

Bath Spa University, Bath, United Kingdom.

Course description

“Our professionally experienced staff foster creative approaches to performance making and encourage entrepreneurism. You’ll create your own portfolio of work during the course and after graduating. Our excellent teaching reputation guarantees rigorous practical training, balanced with research and analytical skills and our industry links with companies, such as Ockham’s Razor and Cirque Bijou, embed industry practice and standards in all classes.”

But why?

It’s the only course on the planet where being the class clown is actively encouraged and that’s a good thing.

Can I study this in Melbourne?

Yes. The National Institute of Circus Arts is offers Australia’s only Bachelor of Circus Arts. The course is accredited by Swinburne University of Technology and you can test your skills out by doing a short course.

Even The Beatles are prepared for the weather in Liverpool.

2. The Beatles, Popular Music and Society, M.A.

University
Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, United Kingdom.

Course description

“A unique opportunity to study in the city of Liverpool, home of The Beatles and with access to leading Popular Music academics and Beatles specialists, this MA is the only one of its kind in the UK and the world.”

But why?

If you’re not sure who The Beatles are, they’re the ultimate boy band and just like Tay-Tay, there’s a song for practically every occasion: while you’re waiting for your results (Please Mister Postman); last day of year 12 (The End); looking for a summer job (Money That’s What I Want); heading to Schoolies (Here Comes the Sun). See? Total legends.

Can I study this in Melbourne?

No, all Beatles-related courses must be studied in their Liverpool hometown. Since Kylie’s hometown is Melbourne, we’re crossing fingers for the Kylie, Popular Music and Society course sometime soon.

Imagine having a job where beer tasting is part of your day?

3. Brewing and Distilling, MSc/Diploma

University

Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Course description

“This program prepares candidates for entry into the malting, brewing or distilling industries, or to conduct research. It covers a broad range of subjects, from brewing science and chemical engineering, to business studies and production management.”

But why?

Is there anything more Australian than making your own beer? Having qualifications to make your own beer and selling it that’s what! In hipster Melbourne the craft industry is alive and well, but there’s always room for beer with a twist (Nomad Brewing love adding seawater to their brews).

Can I study this in Melbourne?

Yes! Hone your craft at Federation University which has its own microbrewery. Courses include a Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma of Brewing and short courses in malting, brewing, and distilling.

Surf science isn’t for everyone — dogs, however, tend to be excellent students.

4. Surf Science & Technology, FdSc

University

Cornwell College, and Tolcarne Beach in Newquay, United Kingdom.

Course description

“During the program you will study: the sport of surfing as well as surfing businesses; business planning relating to the surfing industry; event management; environmental science; human exercise science; principles of psychology and coaching; design and manufacture of surf boards; the environment and human impacts on it; the development of surfing culture and history; sport-related media and politics; the geographical and climatic influences on surfing.”

But why?

If you just want to skip the books and surf all day, surprisingly, this isn’t the course for you. If you’re all about the books with a side of toe-dipping in the ocean on occasion, sign right up — the university says this is first and foremost an academic program and practical surfing is not part of the course, “you do not need to be an excellent surfer to apply.”

Can I study this in Melbourne?

There are plenty of learn to surf courses and even courses for your dog to learn, but at present, there aren’t any degree level courses. If you’ve got the surfing down pat, a sports management course would be a good next step, such as the Bachelor of Sport Management at VU.

In a four year Viking studies degree, you’ll be able to collect some great dress-ups.

5. Viking and Old Norse Studies, B.A.

University

University College London, London, United Kingdom.

Course description

“This four-year undergraduate program aims to develop your knowledge and understanding of the Viking Age through study of the medieval and modern Scandinavian languages, Old Norse literature, and medieval history. The third year is spent abroad at a university in Denmark, Iceland, Norway or Sweden.”

But why?

You don’t need to be a fan of Vikings or The Last Kingdom to find this course interesting — the degree gives you the opportunity to learn a Scandinavian language plus a year abroad in Scandinavia. For business-minded students, Sweden is the birthplace of some of the most forward-thinking companies — Ikea, Skype, Spotify, Ericsson, H & M to name a few.

Can I study this in Melbourne?

Not exactly. The University of Melbourne offers Bachelor of Arts students majors, minors and specialisations in Ancient, Medieval and Early Modern Studies and there’s also a Scandinavian Club. If you’re interested in learning Swedish or another language, check out the CAE’s courses.

Learning the ropes takes on a new meaning when you’re learning to sail.

6. Navigation and Maritime Science, BSc (Hons)

University
Plymouth University, United Kingdom.

Course description

“Do you want to become a professional seafarer in the merchant navy, yachting or superyacht industries? You will study a three year honours program that gives you skills sought by employers across the sector for shore-based maritime management. You can study an additional year working at sea to gain internationally recognised qualifications required to become a professional seafarer. You will gain core leadership, navigation and meteorological skills through time on ships and in our simulator.”

But why?

Australia is one big island with lots of water and lots of boats around it — it’s a given that you’ll spend some time on a boat at some stage. If you want to score a second invite, you should aim to look the part, not like a Below Deck groupie.

Can I do this course in Melbourne?

The Yachtmaster Sailing School holds courses all year round for those wishing to pursue a career on the high seas — crew or master on certified commercial charter boats or superyachts with internationally recognised commercial qualifications.

Zombies waiting at a bus stop. Nothing to see here.

7. Surviving the Coming Zombie Apocalypse — Disasters, Catastrophes, and Human Behavior

University

Michigan State University, USA.

Course description

“This award-winning, fully online course brings together the latest thinking on how and why humans behave during disasters and catastrophes. Students in survival groups will face multiple challenges and tasks as they attempt to survive the catastrophic event, escape death, and preserve the future of civilisation. For the ability to survive ultimately rests not with the individual but the group.”

But why?

Because you may just need this course one day.

Can I do this course in Melbourne?

External Learning Australia offers an online course titled Zombie Apocalypse Survival Course. There are 15 modules — learn to zombie proof your home and the art of scavenging in tough times, and more.