Rock climbing, dragons and beer: 10 unique classes offered at Cincinnati-area colleges

Fall semester is in full swing, as local college students have returned to lives filled with homework assignments, lectures and exams.

But who said you can't have a little fun while learning?

We rounded up 10 unique and/or unusual courses offered at colleges and universities around Greater Cincinnati. From rock climbing to beer, the list has classes for everyone. Take a look below.

University of Cincinnati

HORT 4080: Hops and History: Introduction to Beer

This 400-level horticulture course offers an introduction to all things beer.

Students go on brewery tours to learn about the science of beer making. With field trips to the Brewery District in Over-the-Rhine, they'll see first-hand how the drink is woven into the culture and history of Cincinnati. And yes, there is a tasting component: Students have the chance to taste beers from around the world, each representing a range of styles, ingredients and cultural preferences.

Students will master the vocabulary of the most seasoned beer-drinkers, learning how to describe a brew's appearance, aroma and flavor.

Everyone must be 21 years or older to take this course (duh).

MUHS 5185 - 001: World Music Lab, Himalayan Drumming

Put down your textbooks and re-center yourself with this course on Himalayan drumming.

This music history class gives students the opportunity to learn how to play the cultural art form in an ensemble setting with the appropriate instruments.

PHIL 3095 - 001: Dinosaurs, Dragons, & Dogma

This 300-level course for university honors students looks at how fossils affirm self-constructed myths in different areas of the world, from dinosaurs and mammoths to ancient seashells. While fossils have contributed to scientific revelations, this course looks at how they've also been dangerous sources of knowledge that fuel various cultural norms.

Students get the chance to consider how fossils demonstrate the challenges new knowledge must overcome to be accepted. Examining the big picture, students discuss the polarization of information in history and in a contemporary context, such as misinformation in social media.

Xavier University

THTR 220: Improvisation for the Actor

Fans of Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Amy Poehler and other popular Second City alumni will be delighted to know Xavier offers a course teaching the very same exercises used in Chicago's oldest improvisational troupe.

In addition to teaching students traditional improv games, this 200-level course covers the historical origins of the unscripted art form. Students learn to distinguish long form from short form improv and create their very own monologues, scenes and performances with the skills developed in class.

DANCE 162: Dance Sport

Whether you're looking to sharpen up your moves or prepare for the first dance at your wedding, this introductory ballroom dance class might be for you.

The course studies five classic ballroom dances practiced around the world: modern waltz, tango, Viennese waltz, slow foxtrot and quickstep. In addition to cutting a rug, students in this course study the history of couples dancing, which emerged in 15th century Europe.

Northern Kentucky University

PSY 201: Psychology of Money

Big-spenders and frugal folks alike are invited to learn about the psychology of finances in this 200-level course.

In this course, students explore how emotions and psychological biases influence the way we spend money. Topics concerning financial anxiety and interpersonal conflict are also covered. Students study the distinction between personal and career financial choices and discuss the impact of wealth inequality on society.

REL 371: Death and the Afterlife

It's an age-old question: What happens after we die?

This religion course explores the various understandings of an afterlife, including disembodied existence, reincarnation and resurrection. Students study the meaning and evidence behind various afterlife ideologies. Topics including personal identity, near-death experiences and the nature of consciousness are discussed.

Miami University

SLM 150C: Beginning Rock Climbing

Calling all climbers! This entry-level course offers students the skills to become a rock climber, as they climb during class time and put topics learned in lecture into practice. Beginner climbers become well-versed in climbing terminology, equipment use, and technical and movement skills.

There's a fee of $180 for students participating in the course.

MUS 385: The Roots of Black Music

This course offers a deep dive into three music genres developed by Black artists that have had a profound impact on the American music industry: blues, gospel and soul.

Students conduct an in-depth analysis of stylistic differences between the three genres and explore their cultural influences.

BIO 244: Wine Tasting Class Viticulture

This course, commonly called the "wine-tasting class," is for ages 21 and older and comes with a $175 fee. During this class, students learn about the process of growing grapes, making wine and tasting some fancy vinos.