5 unconventional subjects expected to become very popular in 2019

From Robotics to Mechatronics, here are the unconventional courses that are set to become more popular in 2019.

1. Robotics

Thanks to the rapid progress of AI (artificial intelligence), robots are no longer considered dumb-machines that are only capable of doing simple, repetitive tasks. With the arrival of humanoids, robots have made huge leaps in recent years. Simultaneously, the career options for students who specialize in robotics has expanded.

From doing research work to designing industrial robots, they can get the opportunity to work in a variety of industries. Therefore, the number of students opting for courses related to robotics is likely to go up in 2019.

2. Automation

Automation has already started making profound impacts on the business world. Be it manufacturing, automotive or retail, nearly every sector is now investing heavily on automating tasks that are tedious, repetitive and dangerous.

As traditional job roles are evolving, the demand for automation experts is growing by the day.  Other than automation engineering, certification courses in industrial automation are also expected to take off next year.

3. Mechatronic

Mechatronics is a fairly new branch of engineering that has caught the attention of students lately. It is an intersection of mechanical engineering, electronic engineering and software engineering.

Broadly speaking, mechatronics engineering focuses on technologies involved in building intelligent electro-mechanical systems.

After completion of their course, graduates can look for work opportunities in various areas including automation and robotics, AI and expert systems, sensing and control systems, computer integrated manufacturing systems, and transportation and vehicular systems.

4. Disability programmes

According to a World Bank report, 1 billion people across the world live some form of disability. At a time, when people of disabilities make for the 15 per cent of the global population, the demand for disability support workers are on a rapid rise in many countries.

Students with a degree in disability programmes can find a wide range of jobs. Be it a speech therapist or a full-time caregiver, the options are plenty.

5. Infection Control

Another course that is tipped to gain popularity in 2019 is infection control. This specialized field of study prepares students to work in an array of settings such as hospitals, healthcare facilities, government departments, private labs among others.