For those who enjoy living life to the fullest, the repetitiveness of academia can be a hindrance to obtaining a degree. Fortunately, many colleges now offer degree options that engage students in hands-on experience and challenge students to push their limits. Here are five degree options that appeal to thrill seekers.
Anthropology
A degree in anthropology, the study of humanity and culture, gives thrill seekers the opportunity to travel to remote areas of the world and study human behavior first-hand. Anthropologists study the interaction and language of groups from Amazonian tribes to African villages and subgroups within Western nations. This work typically requires a graduate degree. My graduate degree is in History but anthropology was a close second choice for me!
Criminal Justice
A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is a pathway to a variety of adrenaline-inducing careers, such as a police officer, detective, park ranger or a career in security. This degree, which you can read more here, trains students to solve complex puzzles and serves as an introduction to forensic sciences. Some management positions or counseling positions require an advanced degree in a concentration of criminal justice. Trivia note – my undergrad degree is in Criminal Justice!
Nautical Archaeology
Thrill seekers combine the rush of scuba diving and maritime adventure and the study of research and archaeology with a degree in nautical archaeology. These archaeologists study shipwrecks, reconstruct damaged ships for display, work for museums and research conservation efforts. Nautical archaeologists require a graduate degree to perform independent research.
Aerospace Engineering
Although placement in the field is highly competitive, a degree in aerospace engineering combines the adventure of space exploration and aerodynamics with engineering. Adventure seekers with strengths in science and mathematics are best for this degree. Those who earn a degree in aerospace engineering design rockets for NASA, defense systems for national security and have a median income of over $100,000 with a bachelor’s degree.
Foreign Language
Fluency in a foreign language and culture leads to careers across the globe and for top organizations. Those with a degree in a foreign language can work for the United Nations, federal intelligence agencies or government embassies that need interpreters in the United States and abroad, work as private vacation guides in foreign countries, or translate documents for universities or museums. Many careers only require a bachelor’s degree, and the demand for interpreters and translators is higher than average job growth rates.
Instead of hindering opportunities for adventure, a degree enhances the choices available for thrill seekers. An education in one of these degrees allows adventurers to discover the world, solve puzzles and use their creativity while receiving a paycheck.
