Six Niche Degrees for Millennials

There's an old saying that if you “choose a job you love...you will never have to work a day in your life.” And for millennials, whom most analysts say are more focused than earlier generations on a good work-life balance, this saying is nearly a mantra. Millennials, who grew up with concepts of global stewardship, civil rights, and social justice, are also one of the most civic-minded generations of the last century. But just like other generations, millennials are also concerned with financial security and career development. So what should a creative, innovative, passionate millennial study? We have a few suggestions that look towards emerging technologies, international entrepreneurship, and conscientious development. Read on to find out more about these exciting and promising career paths.

1. Outdoor Living Design
Millennials don't have a monopoly on wanderlust or the love of nature, but for business savvy students with an eye for design, a degree in Outdoor Living Design (OLD) could be the trail to success. OLD requires skills in engineering, business, and design and a passion for outdoor recreation and sustainability are a must. Many interior design and marketing courses offer electives for interested students.

2. Advanced Software Development and Digital Design
One of the things that sets millennials apart from earlier generations is their familiarity with all things digital. Millennials grew up with the internet and have a native understanding of technology. This makes them perfectly suited to careers in programming and computer science, which emerge quickly and change rapidly as technology advances at a record pace.

3. Culinary Degrees
Millennials are often stereotyped as bearded slackers obsessed with craft beer, artisan coffee, molecular gastronomy, and organic produce, but these specialized culinary interests can equal major career success...if you learn how to harness your passion. Luckily, universities throughout the world are adding culinary courses to their bachelor's and master's programs.

4. Big Data
As technology advances so does our capacity to collect, analyze, and apply big data to a range of social, political, scientific, and cultural issues. Big Data degrees are designed to prepare students for careers that require comprehensive knowledge of how to gather, understand, and use big data in real-world settings. Companies and institutions around the world are looking for candidates who can comprehend the enormous amount of information that can be generated by digital technology and find innovative ways to apply that data to issues. And the best part about graduate programs in data science? Students with a bachelor's in just about any subject will find a program that suits their skill-set.

5. Bioengineering
Are you an engineering student who wants to approach old problems with new solutions? If so, a degree in Bioengineering will give you the chance to combine caring with innovation and technology. Bioengineers work in both biomedical and biotechnological industries to develop products, equipment, and innovative treatments that will have a positive impact on medical care and health. The field offers lots of opportunities for specialization, and the sector is rapidly developing which means there are many job opportunities and a demand for skilled bioengineers.

6. Nutrition and Wellness
Anyone who grew up playing Oregon Trail knows how important good nutrition is to the health of a community, and a degree in nutrition is perfect for millennials looking to make a positive impact on both their local and global communities. Dietitians and nutrition specialists will find challenges throughout the world – from malnutrition and nutritional illiteracy in developing and economically depressed regions to obesity and diabetes in developed countries. A degree in nutrition can lead to careers in government, non-profit organizations, private research foundations, and even private practice. In many countries, nutritionists and dietitians require accreditation, so it's important to pick a reputable program.