6 Things Worth Knowing About the Weirdest Doctorate Degrees
The most unconventional PhDs aren’t just outliers; they’re symptoms of a broader trend. Universities now treat niche interests as legitimate fields of study, often responding to student demand or cultural phenomena. Below are six key facts that explain why these degrees exist—and what they say about higher education today.1. The First "Pop Culture" PhD Was Awarded in 1999
The University of Liverpool made headlines when it granted the first doctorate in pop culture studies to a scholar researching Star Trek. This wasn’t a joke—it was a response to the growing academic interest in media’s role in society. Since then, programs in fantasy literature, gaming, and fandom have proliferated. Institutions like the University of Hertfordshire now offer PhDs in science fiction and fantasy, with graduates analyzing themes of power, identity, and technology in works like Game of Thrones or The Witcher. What’s striking is how these degrees bridge gaps between humanities and industry. A Star Wars scholar might collaborate with Disney on world-building, while a Dungeons & Dragons researcher could advise on game design. The weirdest doctorate degrees often become gateways to unexpected careers.2. Emoji Studies Is Now a Legitimate Academic Field
In 2018, the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) launched a PhD in emoji and digital communication, one of the first in the world. Researchers examine how emojis convey emotion, shape online identities, and even influence diplomacy. A 2020 study from UWE found that emoji usage in political campaigns can sway voter perception—proving that even the most abstract symbols have real-world impact. This field highlights how unconventional doctorates emerge from digital culture. Emoji studies combines linguistics, psychology, and technology, showing that academia adapts to modern communication trends. Critics argue it’s trivial, but defenders point to its interdisciplinary value.3. A PhD in Medieval History Can Lead to a Career in Theme Parks
The weirdest doctorate degrees sometimes lead to the most practical outcomes. Take the case of a historian who earned a PhD in medieval warfare and now designs exhibits for Disney’s Haunted Mansion. Universities like the University of Leicester offer specialized medieval studies, and graduates often find work in museums, tourism, or even film production. The key? Translating academic rigor into marketable expertise. This trend reflects a shift in higher education: niche doctorates are increasingly seen as assets, not liabilities. Employers value deep knowledge, even if it’s in an obscure area.4. The Psychology of Harry Potter Is a Real Area of Study
In 2016, a psychologist published a book analyzing the psychological themes in Harry Potter, and universities now offer courses on the series’ impact. A PhD in fantasy psychology might explore how magical worlds shape real-world behavior—studies have linked Harry Potter’s themes of resilience to increased empathy in readers. This field blends literary criticism with mental health research, proving that even fictional worlds can be studied scientifically.5. Some Institutions Offer PhDs in "Nothing" (Yes, Really)
The most absurd doctorate degrees include a PhD in "nothing" at the University of Essex, where students explore the philosophy of vacuity. Another program, at the University of Birmingham, lets students study "the unknown"—a meta-discipline that questions how we define knowledge itself. These degrees aren’t about teaching facts; they’re about teaching how to think differently. Such programs push boundaries, asking: What happens when academia embraces the unknowable?"A PhD in nothing is about embracing the void—not as a lack, but as a space for creativity." — Dr. Martin Wainwright, University of Essex
6. Corporate Sponsorship Drives Some of the Weirdest Degrees
Not all unusual doctorates are purely academic. Companies like Google and Disney have funded research into virtual reality, gaming, and interactive storytelling. For example, a PhD in "narrative design" (studying how stories unfold in digital media) might be sponsored by a tech firm looking to improve user engagement. This blurs the line between research and industry, creating degrees that solve real problems—just in unexpected ways.
How These Facts Connect
The weirdest doctorate degrees aren’t isolated oddities; they’re part of a larger pattern where academia responds to cultural shifts. From the rise of fandom studies to the digitization of communication, these programs reflect what society finds fascinating. They also challenge the notion that a PhD must lead to a traditional career—many graduates pivot into consulting, media, or entrepreneurship. Yet, not all unconventional degrees are created equal. Some, like emoji studies, have clear practical applications, while others, like a PhD in nothing, exist purely as intellectual exercises. The table below compares key aspects of these programs:| Degree Type | Industry Demand | Academic Rigor | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pop Culture Studies | High (media, gaming, theme parks) | Moderate (mixes theory with applied research) | Content creation, consulting, academia |
| Emoji/Digital Communication | Growing (tech, marketing, diplomacy) | High (interdisciplinary) | UX design, social media strategy, research |
| Medieval/Theme Park History | Niche (museums, tourism, film) | Very High (specialized research) | Curator, exhibit designer, writer |
| Philosophy of "Nothing" | Low (mostly academic) | High (theoretical) | Philosophy, creative writing, research |
Conclusion
The weirdest doctorate degrees aren’t just curiosities—they’re indicators of where society is heading. As digital culture dominates, universities will keep creating programs that reflect new obsessions. The challenge? Balancing academic rigor with relevance. Some degrees will thrive; others will fade. But one thing is certain: the next generation of unconventional PhDs will push boundaries even further. For students, the message is clear: passion matters more than pragmatism. The most unusual degrees often lead to the most unexpected opportunities—whether that’s consulting for a tech giant or writing a book on medieval warfare.Comprehensive FAQs
Q: Can you really get a PhD in Star Wars or Harry Potter?
A: Yes. The University of Liverpool and other institutions offer degrees in fantasy literature and media, where students can focus on Star Wars, Harry Potter, or other franchises. These programs treat fandom as a legitimate field of study, blending literary analysis with cultural impact.
Q: Are these degrees taken seriously in academia?
A: It depends. Some unusual doctorates are fully accredited and peer-reviewed, while others exist in more experimental spaces. Programs like emoji studies or medieval history are now mainstream, but a PhD in "nothing" remains niche. Reputation hinges on the institution and the research’s contribution to knowledge.
Q: Do graduates of weird PhDs get jobs?
A: Many do—just not in traditional roles. A Dungeons & Dragons scholar might work in game design, while a medieval historian could land a job at Disney. The key is framing expertise as a marketable skill, not just an academic pursuit.
Q: How much does an unconventional PhD cost?
A: Tuition varies widely. Public universities in the U.S. or UK may charge £10,000–£30,000 for a PhD, while private or specialized programs can exceed £50,000. Some institutions offer scholarships or industry sponsorships, but funding remains a hurdle for niche degrees.
Q: What’s the most unusual PhD ever awarded?
A: The PhD in "Nothing" at the University of Essex takes the cake. Others include degrees in "the unknown" (Birmingham) or "medieval death" (Leicester). These programs exist to challenge conventional thinking, not to prepare students for specific careers.
Q: Can I create my own weird PhD program?
A: Unlikely—but not impossible. Some universities allow interdisciplinary proposals if you can justify the research’s value. Start by identifying a gap in existing fields, then pitch it to faculty. Passion and persistence are key.
