Six of the Coolest Majors Ever

By Arkansas NEXT Staff on Monday, September 19, 2011

Turn your passions into paydays with these awesome Arkansas degrees. They’re sure to suit your unique personalities and open doors to exciting job opportunities.

1. A movie director
Why it’s so cool: Movie buff? Stop watching and start creating in the exciting, glamorous and high-tech world of filmmaking. Learn the techniques for great storylines, perfect lighting and all the digital tricks to bring it all together. Whether you’re indie or more mainstream, you’re bound to find the niche in Hollywood for you.
The degree you’ll need: Digital Filmmaking
Where it’s offered: University of Central Arkansas
Similar degrees: Multimedia Film & Video Production, Radio Broadcasting/TV Production, Drama, Theatre, Multimedia Broadcasting, Multimedia Technology

2. A fashion designer
Why it’s so cool: If you succeed, models like Heidi Klum will strut the catwalk in your designs during Fashion Week in New York, Paris and Milan—setting trends for the whole world to follow! Love fashion, but don’t want to design? Apparel studies will train you for a career in merchandising (also known as buying) too, which gives you the power to pick the clothes you see in stores. The possibilities in the fashion world are limited only by your imagination.
The degree you’ll need: Apparel Studies
Where it’s offered: University of Arkansas
Similar degrees: Fashion Merchandising, Retail, Graphic Design, Art, Interior Design, Entrepreneurship

3. A music producer or talent manager
Why it’s so cool: Do you dream of producing Billboard 100 records for the latest musical talents or of becoming a manager to stars like Lil Wayne, Carrie Underwood, Justin Bieber or the Black Eyed Peas? Then you’ll want to research this degree. It’s meant to train students in music business management, production, recording and engineering.
The degree you’ll need: Music Business
Where it’s offered: Arkansas Baptist College (associate degree)
Similar degrees: Music, Music – Performance, Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Church Music, Management, Business Management

4. A video game creator
Why it’s so cool: You don’t have to put down your controller to get a job. Besides, you love to play them, so why not create them? Put this love of video games, the latest technology and your imagination to work. Create engaging narratives and stunning visuals in this exciting and fast-paced industry.
The degree you’ll need: Video Game Design
Where it’s offered: University of Arkansas – Little Rock
Similar degrees: Animation Technology, Three-Dimensional Design, Computer Science, Software Development, Web Design & Interactive Media, Software Engineering

5. A sports agent or team manager
Why it’s so cool: For students who love sports but weren’t born with athletic abilities, this degree can get you in the game! As an agent, manager or publicist for athletes and teams, you’ll get to participate in – and cash in on – the exciting world of sports. According to the Princeton Review, sports managers are crucial to ensuring that the players, fans, coaches and financial backers coexist peacefully.
The degree you’ll need: Sports Administration/Management
Where it’s offered: Arkansas State University, Henderson State University, Harding University, John Brown University
Similar degrees: Recreation & Sport Management, Athletic Training, Management, Business Management, Public Relations, Strategic Communication

6. A crime scene investigator
Why it’s so cool: While it may be sometimes exaggerated on TV, the world of crime scene investigation is real. Examine fingerprints. Use forensic imaging techniques. Navigate a crime scene like a pro. These are all important tasks of criminal investigation and law enforcement. It’s rewarding and hands-on, and it makes a real difference in the world.
The degree you’ll need: Crime Scene Investigation
Where it’s offered: University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas, Pulaski Technical College, Arkansas State University, Arkansas State University–Newport, University of Arkansas Community College – Morrilton, Black River Technical College, Southern Arkansas University, University of Arkansas – Monticello, University of Arkansas – Pine Bluff, Arkansas State University–Beebe, Arkansas State University–Mountain Home, College of the Ozarks, North Arkansas College, Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas, Southeast Arkansas College, University of Arkansas Community College – Batesville
Similar degrees: Forensic Science, Criminal Investigation Science, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Computer Forensics