India’s education system is often associated with mainstream courses like engineering, medicine, law, and business. However, some colleges and institutes are breaking the mold by offering specialized programs in unique fields that cater to niche interests and evolving industries. Several colleges now offer unique programs catering to niche interests, emerging industries, and offbeat career paths. Whether you’re fascinated by toy design, puppetry, or mountaineering, these specialized courses provide exciting alternatives.
If you’re someone who wants to pursue a career beyond the conventional choices, here are 10 Indian colleges that offer some of the most unconventional courses.
1. National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad – Toy and Game Design
Course Name: Toy & Game Design (M.Des.)
This course is perfect for those interested in designing innovative toys and games for children and adults. It integrates elements of psychology, child development, and product design to create engaging and educational play experiences. With India’s growing toy industry, skilled designers are in demand.
Career Opportunities:
- Toy and game designer
- Product developer in the toy industry
- Entrepreneur in educational toys
- Researcher in play-based learning
- https://nid.edu/academics/programmes/master-of-design-mdes/toy-game-design-mdes
2. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai – Social Entrepreneurship
Course Name: Master of Arts in Social Entrepreneurship
This program trains students to create business solutions for social challenges like poverty, education, and healthcare. It combines management principles with social impact strategies, making it ideal for those who want to launch mission-driven ventures.
Career Opportunities:
- Social entrepreneur
- Consultant for NGOs and policy-making bodies
- Impact investment analyst
- CSR strategist
- https://admissions.tiss.edu/view/10/admissions/ma-admissions/ma-in-social-entrepreneurship/
3. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore – Science and Music
Course Name: Interdisciplinary PhD in Science and Music
This program explores the relationship between music and science, particularly in acoustics, sound engineering, and neuroscience. It is ideal for those interested in studying how music affects human cognition, emotion, and learning.
Career Opportunities:
- Acoustics engineer
- Music therapist
- Sound designer
- Computational music researcher
4. National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Delhi – Leather Design
Course Name: Bachelor of Design (Leather Design)
This course focuses on the design, production, and sustainability of leather goods, including footwear, bags, and accessories. India is a major player in the global leather industry, making this course highly relevant.
Career Opportunities:
- Leather product designer
- Footwear designer
- Sustainable leather entrepreneur
- Consultant in leather manufacturing
- https://www.nift.ac.in/bld
5. Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune – Screen Acting & Digital Cinematography
Course Name: Postgraduate Diploma in Screen Acting
FTII’s acting course provides structured training in film and television performance, voice modulation, and camera techniques. Unlike informal acting schools, this program offers hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment.
Career Opportunities:
- Film and TV actor
- Theatre performer
- Voice-over artist
- Acting coach
- https://www.ftii.ac.in/p/film-wing/two-year-pg-diploma-course-in-acting
6. Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU), Baroda – Puppetry
Course Name: Certificate Course in Puppetry
Puppetry is a traditional Indian art form that is finding new applications in education and therapy. This course trains students in various puppetry styles, blending traditional storytelling with modern techniques.
Career Opportunities:
- Puppeteer and storyteller
- Educational trainer using puppetry
- Creative artist in theatre and media
- Therapist using puppetry for rehabilitation
7. Indira Gandhi Institute of Tribal Studies (IGITM), Amarkantak – Tribal Studies
Course Name: Master of Arts in Tribal Studies
This course provides insights into India’s indigenous communities, their cultures, traditions, and socio-economic challenges. It is ideal for those interested in anthropology, social work, and tribal welfare policies.
Career Opportunities:
- Anthropologist specializing in tribal cultures
- Tribal welfare officer
- Researcher in rural development
- NGO professional working with indigenous communities
- https://www.igntu.ac.in/TribalStudies.aspx
8. Symbiosis School of Culinary Arts, Pune – Culinary Arts & Bakery Science
Course Name: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
This program trains aspiring chefs in international cuisines, food styling, and bakery science. It also emphasizes sustainability, farm-to-table cooking, and food entrepreneurship.
Career Opportunities:
- Professional chef
- Pastry chef
- Food stylist
- Culinary entrepreneur
9. Indian Institute of Mountaineering, Darjeeling – Mountaineering & Adventure Sports
Course Name: Basic & Advanced Mountaineering Course
This intensive course trains individuals in high-altitude trekking, rock climbing, and survival techniques. It is ideal for adventure enthusiasts looking to turn their passion into a profession.
Career Opportunities:
- Professional mountaineer
- Trek guide and adventure sports instructor
- Rescue operation specialist
- Environmental conservationist
- https://hmidarjeeling.com/courses-offered/
10. Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development (RGNIYD), Tamil Nadu – Gender Studies & Development
Course Name: Master of Arts in Gender Studies
This program focuses on gender policies, human rights, and feminist studies. It prepares students for careers in advocacy, policy development, and research related to gender equality.
Career Opportunities:
- Gender rights activist
- Policy researcher
- Consultant for human rights organizations
- Diversity and inclusion specialist
11. Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS), Thiruvananthapuram – Responsible Tourism
Course Name: Postgraduate Diploma in Responsible Tourism
With India’s booming tourism industry, this course focuses on sustainable and ethical tourism practices. It teaches students about eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and how to minimize the negative impact of tourism on local cultures and the environment.
Career Opportunities:
- Eco-tourism consultant
- Sustainable travel planner
- Tourism policy advisor
- Wildlife and heritage tourism specialist
- https://www.kittsedu.org/
Summary – Beyond Engineering
If you’re looking for an academic path beyond traditional degrees, these unconventional courses offer exciting opportunities. From designing innovative toys to studying tribal cultures, exploring mountaineering, or creating sustainable tourism models, these programs provide a unique gateway to specialized careers.
Would you consider any of these courses? Let us know which one interests you the most!
