5 Unusual PhD Specialisations You Didn’t Know Existed
Pursuing a PhD degree course refers to creating new knowledge, developing new skills and discovering new things. The degree is meant for those who aspire for in-depth expertise in a specific field. With the desire to advance in the knowledge, graduates tend to study until they get their hard work rewards. Earning a PhD degree provides you with an advantage in personal as well as professional life. Although PhD is not much needed in the corporate work life, jobs relating research gives a plus one in the career. Additionally, it will offer you an incredible sense of fulfilment and respect in your field of specialisation.
Top Offbeat PhD Specialisations Several PhD disciplines tend to have fewer recruitment opportunities, while some unusual disciplines have less demand yet provide extensive career options. Undoubtedly, this academic road can be your golden ticket to a lucrative career. Here are the lesser-known specialisations of PhD you can consider to get an edge in the career progression. 1. Ph.D. in Parapsychology
In case you feel that human psychology and human interactions are not accountable to the laws of science, you can consider a PhD in Parapsychology. The discipline of PhD aids the investigation of paranormal or the ‘psychic’ phenomena. Belief in the supernatural and the recorded history might interest you. The PhD programme seeks to research these phenomena
visions, beliefs in psychic phenomena, intuitions, survival beyond bodily death, etc. This has been a foundation for several spiritual philosophies of life. 2. Ph.D. in Packaging
Packaging can save lives. The PhD degree program focuses on the science and technology behind the packaging. Improvement in the area of packaging indirectly aims to make human lives better. Consumer products, such as food, require sustainable packaging innovation to provide a better human experience. Under the program, you shall get a broad education and knowledge with specialised training in the areas such as Recycling, Environmental impacts of packaging, Distribution packaging, Packaging in business and marketing, etc. 3. Ph.D. in Wood Science
As its name already suggests, a Ph.D. programme in wood science is a research field focusing on wood and wood products. An in-depth study of the mechanical, physical, and anatomical wood features is known as wood science and technology. PhD in wood science includes research on wood material science, which remains crucial in utilising and manufacturing the wood and its products. Some of the areas covered under this PhD programme includes Renewable Construction Materials, Wood Degradation, Wood Adhesives, Forest Products, etc. 4. Ph.D. in International Relations
Scholars’ training to conduct interdisciplinary research across vital global affairs and political science is taught under a PhD in International Relations. The programme is designed to provide a combination of hands-on fieldwork and a comprehensive theoretical study of international relations. A strong emphasis on geo-politics and global events that primarily affect international relations in the age of globalisation are covered under the PhD programme in international relations. Under this PhD programme, areas of study can include Area StudiesMiddle East, Energy studies, Peace And Conflict Studies, International Studies, Diplomacy, and more. 5. Ph.D. in Industrial Hygiene
Ph.D. in Industrial Hygiene is imparted with a focus on transforming the field of occupational diseases. The PhD programme aims to research injury prevention under several industries such as the environmental sector and the agricultural sector. Students are prepared to recognise, assess, and control industrial hygiene hazards to prevent diseases and injuries further. Accountable to the training, graduates of this Ph.D. programme are deemed ready to contribute to the entire environmental health. Conclusion
We have discussed the five most unusual disciplines to consider under a PhD degree. The primary reasons to consider any of the above disciplines and ditching the conventional academic discipline is the research and growth required in the fields. Due to less consideration by the students, these disciplines can fetch great results via extensive research, leading to recognition and respect.