Oftentimes, children question the need for a particular subject in school, especially if it does not align with their career choice. They argue that they do not need to learn the subject because their career path does not require it, whether it is algebra or science. While these are ordinary subjects that align with many career paths, several schools around the world add strange subjects to their curriculum. These subjects would make you wonder when the need would arise for you to utilise such knowledge and which career these align with. Today, we are listing ten outrageous subjects that are taught in schools.
1. Witchcraft and Wizardry, UK
First on our list of strange subjects taught in schools is witchcraft and wizardry at the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom. This unusual course covers the cultural and historical significance of witchcraft, examining mediaeval practices, paganism, and supernatural beliefs throughout history. The school is no Hogwarts, but it does allow students to dive deep into mythologies, practices, and even the sociology of witchcraft.
2. Harry Potter Literature, USA
Speaking of Hogwarts, Harry Potter superfans can enrol in a class dedicated to Harry Potter at the University of California, Berkeley. This course covers the social themes, literature, and moral questions raised in the series, allowing students to analyse these books on a deeper level. Through this course, students explore good versus evil, the issue that arises in friendships, and loyalty.
3. Ice Cream Making and Tasting, USA
In Pennsylvania, students at Penn State University can enrol in a class dedicated entirely to ice cream. This course is called the “Ice Cream Short Course,” and it explores all that there is to know about the delicious desert, from the flavour development to the science and technology behind ice cream production. Ice cream lovers will also be happy to know that the course covers the sensory evaluation of ice cream, making it a very interesting subject.
4. Professional Dog Walking, UK
In the United Kingdom, dog lovers can enrol in a course dedicated to teaching students about dogs and professional dog walking at the British College of Canine Studies. While this might sound like an odd topic for education, animal lovers will excel in this course as they learn about canine behaviour, health, and even legal considerations for dog walkers. For animal lovers who are interested in entering a niche profession with dogs, this course will provide them with all the essential skills they need.
5. Chocolate Tasting in Switzerland
Another sweet and savoury course that students can enrol in is located in Switzerland, which is famous for its chocolates. The Ecole Chocolat Professional School of Chocolate Arts welcomes students to learn about chocolate tasting, flavour profiles, and the fine art of chocolate making. Enrolling in this course will teach you to distinguish fine chocolates, the ability to pair flavours with various foods and beverages, and even how to create high-quality treats of your own.
6. Tree Climbing, France
Another strange subject that is taught in schools is the course offered at the “École Nationale de l’Arbre” (National Tree School) in France which teaches tree climbing as part of its environmental studies. This course covers techniques to climb trees safely, both for recreational and scientific purposes. Students are taught about tree physiology and ecology, allowing them to appreciate nature while also promoting eco-tourism.
7. Zombie Studies, USA
Lastly on the list of strange subjects taught in school is the “Surviving the Coming Zombie Apocalypse” course that Michigan State University offers. Although it sounds like it is from a horror movie, this course teaches students about survival techniques, disaster preparedness, and psychology by using the concept of a zombie apocalypse. Through hypothetical scenarios, students learn about societal collapse, teamwork, and crisis management.