6 Unusual College Courses You Won’t Believe Exist

College is often seen as a time for rigorous academics, late-night study sessions, and preparing for the “real world.” That said, beyond the traditional curriculum lies a treasure trove of weird and unusual courses that offer students some unique experiences. In no particular order, here are six unusual college courses.

Existential Despair – University of Pennsylvania

In today’s hyper-connected world, a little unplugging is something we all need. The purpose of this course is to rescue students from the confines of the digital world while challenging their intellect through literature and intense discussion.

Students who enter this course are required to surrender their cell phones before they immerse themselves in seven hours of literature. After reading, students discuss the material while sitting in complete darkness. The course is designed to foster intellectual reflection, and challenges students to confront the human experience head-on.

Vampire: Blood and Empire – University of Pittsburgh

If you’re a Dracula fanatic or you’ve got an interest in history of vampirism, this course is right up your alley. Delving into the world of the undead, Vampire: Blood and Empire explores the cultural significance of our favorite creatures of the night.

Students will examine literature, film, and folklore from different cultures including Russia, France, England, and America to understand how vampire myths reflect societal fears and desires.

Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse – Michigan State University

By now, people might be getting tired of the zombie trope in fiction, but what if the zombie apocalypse actually happened? Would those countless hours of “training” by playing video games and watching zombie movies kick in?

This course is a unique blend of pop culture and practical skills, and prepares students for hypothetical zombie outbreaks. Using a fun premise, it teaches emergency preparedness, survival strategies, and crisis management—skills you can apply to any aspect of your life.

Stupidity – Occidental College

Don’t let the name of this course fool you. In it, you’ll be taking on deep philosophical concepts courtesy of big names such as Friedrich Nietzsche, Gilles Deleuze, and Avital Ronell, so you’ll need to put on your thinking cap.

Stupidity is a deceptively thought-provoking course, and challenges students to consider what stupidity is, as well as its implications and representations in society. Students will also learn how ignorance is perceived and portrayed in popular culture.

Garbology – Santa Clara University

Ever wonder why people create so much garbage? Along with this, where does all the garbage go, and what impact does it have on our environment? If you’ve ever pondered the mysteries of the things we throw out, this course is for you.

Students will trace the path of garbage, from the moment it’s thrown out, all the way to the landfill where it’s burned, recycled, or dealt with in one way or another. The class also delves into sustainable solutions and how we as individuals can make better choices to reduce waste in our everyday lives.

Tree Climbing – Cornell University

You read that right: Tree Climbing. When you were a child (or perhaps even last week) you probably at least thought about climbing a tree. Now, as a college student, you’ll be able to fulfill your destiny through Cornell University’s Outdoor Education Program.

This course teaches students the techniques and safety measures required for climbing trees. You’ll be using ropes and harnesses, and even swinging from tree to tree like Tarzan. It’s a hands-on class that combines physical activity with an appreciation for nature.

These courses may seem crazy, but by venturing into unconventional territories, students can gain diverse perspectives, challenge their thinking, and engage with the world in interesting ways. The bottom line is, when it comes to your education, it pays to think outside the box.

Rob Porter is an editor at Vault.