Celebrities You Didn't Know Have Cool College Degrees

Celebrities You Didn't Know Have Cool College Degrees


May 7, 2025 | Alex Summers

Celebrities You Didn't Know Have Cool College Degrees


Lecture Halls To Red Carpets

Before they were famous, some of these celebs were buried in textbooks, chasing lab experiments or puzzling through complex equations. It turns out that not every famous face was aiming for the spotlight. 

Intro

Ken Jeong

Ken Jeong earned his MD from the University of North Carolina before shifting careers. He even completed a residency in internal medicine in New Orleans. Though comedy eventually won, Jeong's medical background remains part of his identity and even surfaces in his roles, like Dr Ken.

Ken Jeong FactsGetty Images

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Shaquille O'Neal

After dominating the NBA, Shaquille O'Neal returned to school to obtain a Doctor of Education degree from Barry University. Focused on organizational learning and leadership, his academic pursuit reflects a lifelong commitment to growth off the court and far from the basketball spotlight.

Portrait Photo of Shaquille O'Neal in a blue shirtMarkScottAustinTX, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Chris Martin

Chris Martin met Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman, Will Champion, and Phil Harvey while at University College London. He earned a first-class honors degree in Greek and Latin. His studies built an academic base, but meeting his future bandmates sparked Coldplay’s journey to global fame.

Musician Chris Martin of ColdplayMike Lawrie, Getty Images

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Dolph Lundgren

Before becoming a martial arts icon, Lundgren earned a chemical engineering degree from Sweden's Royal Institute of Technology. He later received a Fulbright scholarship to MIT. Science was his first passion, but action films like Rocky IV made him a cult favorite far outside the lab.

Screenshot from the movie Rocky IV (1985)United Artists, Rocky IV (1985)

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Rowan Atkinson

Known for playing bumbling characters, Rowan Atkinson is sharper than he lets on. He studied electrical engineering at Newcastle University, then earned a master's from Oxford. Comedy followed, but his technical training shaped Mr Bean's oddly mechanical timing.

Screenshot from the movie Bean (1997)Working Title, Bean (1997)

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Cindy Crawford

Her journey shifted completely because of modeling, not equations. Cindy Crawford's early goal was a STEM career, and she earned a scholarship to study chemical engineering at Northwestern. That analytical mindset never left her; it later powered her skincare line and other business ventures.

Cindy Crawford at the Becoming book signingIbsan73, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Ashton Kutcher

Long before That 70s Show, Ashton Kutcher enrolled at the University of Iowa to study biochemical engineering. Motivated to find a cure for his twin brother's heart condition, Kutcher's academic path was grounded in science until modeling gigs pulled him toward Hollywood.

Ashton Kutcher FactsShutterstock

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Cole Sprouse

While many knew him as a child actor, Cole Sprouse majored in archaeology at New York University. He even participated in fieldwork by digging at sites around Europe and Asia. These kinds of academic interests show a side of him that values discovery far beyond Hollywood sets.

Cole SprouseDFree, Shutterstock

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Natalie Portman

Already a rising star, Natalie Portman enrolled at Harvard and earned a psychology degree. Despite filming Star Wars during breaks, she remained committed to her studies. Her background in cognitive science gives her an insightful edge, one that subtly informs her nuanced performances today.

File:Natalie Portman in 2005.jpgJacque fresco, Wikimedia Commons

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Lisa Kudrow

Before her role as Phoebe Buffay, Lisa Kudrow earned a biology degree from Vassar College. She even planned a research career alongside her father, a well-known physician and headache specialist. Science may have been her starting point, but laughter had a stronger pull.

Portrait Photo of award-winning American actress Lisa Kudrowellenball1, Flickr

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Rebel Wilson

Her legal training sharpened the wit she brings to every scene she steals. Rebel Wilson's knack for comedy proved irresistible, even though she pursued a double degree in Law and Arts at the University of New South Wales. Courtroom battles seemed likely until the spotlight found her instead.

Comedian Rebel WilsonPascal Le Segretain, Getty Images

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Gerard Butler

Before becoming an action star, Gerard Butler studied law at the University of Glasgow. He even landed a trainee position at a law firm but was fired before qualification. That twist of fate nudged him onto the stage and eventually onto the big screen.

Portrait Photo of the Actor Gerard Butler in a blue shirtgerard butler phantasias, Flickr

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Freddie Highmore

Known for starring in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Good Doctor, Freddie Highmore pursued Spanish and Arabic at Cambridge University. He also interned at a law firm in Madrid, which reflects a strong passion for languages and life outside acting.

Freddie HighmoreDFree, Shutterstock

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Terry Crews

Before flexing his comedic muscles on screen, Terry Crews majored in Art at Western Michigan University. A talented illustrator, he once worked as a courtroom sketch artist and even designed furniture. You can see his work in an episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine titled “M.E. Time”. Bet you didn’t know that!

Terry Crews Get Smart premiere arrival - 2008Anthony Citrano, Flickr

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Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria balanced a growing acting career while pursuing a master’s degree in Chicano Studies at California State University, Northridge. Her thesis explored the success of Latinas in STEM fields, which reveals a surprising depth to her public persona.

Eva Longoria during day three of Web Summit - 2022Web Summit, CC-BY-SA-2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Rooney Mara

Before charming audiences in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Rooney Mara studied psychology and social policy at NYU's Gallatin School. Her studies centered on nonprofits and global development long before she ever embraced a camera-ready persona or chased Hollywood acclaim.

Screenshot of Rooney Mara as Lizbeth from - The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)MGM, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

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Brian May 

Brian May's research on interplanetary dust is still cited in academic circles today. He began his PhD in astrophysics at Imperial College London before putting it on hold to tour with Queen. Decades later, he returned to finish what he'd started, this time with a guitar.

Brian May, lead guitarist of the rock band Queen - 2018Bill Ingalls, Wikimedia Commons

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Gabrielle Union

Before she charmed audiences with standout performances in Bring It On and Being Mary Jane, Gabrielle Union studied sociology at the University of California, Los Angeles. This degree may have provided insights into human behavior, potentially benefiting her vibrant acting career.

Screenshot from the movie Bring It On (2000)Beacon Pictures, Bring It On (2000)

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Angela Bassett

Graduating with a degree in African-American Studies from Yale University added a remarkable chapter to Angela Bassett’s journey. She later gained widespread acclaim for her powerful portrayals of real-life figures and multifaceted characters in film and television.

Angela Bassett wearing red jacketKristina Bumphrey, Getty Images

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Dwayne Johnson

Before wrestling fame and movie deals, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson studied criminology and physiology at the University of Miami. While he never pursued law enforcement, he said the coursework helped him understand people, which now powers his charisma on and off screen.

Portrait Photo of the Actor Dwayne Johnson in a white shirt, smilingEva Rinaldi, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Kumail Nanjiani

Kumail Nanjiani studied philosophy and computer science at Grinnell College before starting a career that initially involved tech support. Later, he found widespread recognition in entertainment, which made his mark with standout performances in Silicon Valley and The Big Sick.

Kumail NanjianiGage Skidmore, Flickr

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Aziz Ansari

Studying marketing at NYU's Stern School of Business gave Aziz Ansari a sense of cultural trends. Famous for Parks and Recreation and co-creating Master of None, he channels early business training into storytelling that blends humor with biting social observations.

Parks and Recreation factsParks and Recreation, Universal Television

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Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones, known for playing in Parks and Recreation, earned a degree in comparative religion from Harvard. Her studies in belief systems and philosophy add quiet depth to how she builds grounded, thoughtful characters in comedy and drama.

Portrait Photo of Rashida Jones at the 2017 Miami International Film FestivalMiamiFilmFestival, Wikimedia Commons

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Maggie Gyllenhaal

Acclaimed for her performances in films like Secretary and The Lost Daughter, Maggie Gyllenhaal studied Eastern religions at Columbia University. Her academic background in spirituality and philosophy often mirrors the emotional complexity she brings to her introspective roles.

Screenshot from the Movie Secretary (2002)Lionsgate, Secretary (2002)

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Ronald Reagan

Before becoming the 40th US President and a former Hollywood actor, Ronald Reagan studied economics and sociology at Eureka College. He later rose to fame in films during the 1940s and 50s, which combined an actor's charisma with a politician's calculated message delivery.

Ronald Reagan's presidential portrait, 1981Michael Evans, Wikimedia Commons

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Brooke Shields

Balancing Ivy League academics with a soaring Hollywood career, Brooke Shields earned her degree in French literature from Princeton. Rising to fame through Pretty Baby and The Blue Lagoon, she shattered assumptions about child stars and ambition far beyond the screen.

Screenshot from the film The Blue Lagoon (1980)Columbia, The Blue Lagoon (1980)

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Edward Norton

Gritty performances in Fight Club and Primal Fear made Edward Norton a cult favorite. Behind that intensity is a history degree from Yale, which sharpened his analytical lens and helped craft the emotional depth woven into his most iconic roles.

Screenshot from the movie Primal Fear (1996)Paramount, Primal Fear (1996)

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Ben Stein

An education in economics at Columbia University, followed by a law degree from Yale, shaped Ben Stein's academic background. His deadpan delivery in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and later political commentary earned him an unusual place across entertainment and public affairs.

File:Ben Stein 2011.jpgMurray State, Wikimedia Commons

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Steve Carell

Steve Carell pursued history at Denison University, focusing his studies on historical events and societal developments. His name later became synonymous with comedic brilliance, particularly through his portrayal of the hilariously awkward Michael Scott in The Office.

A visually captivating still taken from a pivotal moment in the television series The Office (2005-2013)NBC, The Office (2005-2013)

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John Cleese

Comedy icon John Cleese, best known for Monty Python's Flying Circus and Fawlty Towers, studied law at Cambridge University. Although he never practiced law, his legal training honed the razor-sharp logic and clever absurdity that define his groundbreaking comedic style.

Screenshot from the television sitcom Fawlty Towers (1975-1979)BBC Two, Fawlty Towers (1975-1979)

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Mayim Bialik

Earning a PhD in neuroscience from UCLA added a surprising chapter to Mayim Bialik's Life. Best known for starring as Amy Farrah Fowler in The Big Bang Theory and the title role in Blossom, she also champions science education and mental health awareness beyond the screen.

Actress Mayim Bialik arrives at and event in blue dress facing the cameraFrazer Harrison, Getty Images

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Connie Britton

Connie Britton, who was celebrated for her roles in Friday Night Lights and The White Lotus, studied Asian studies focusing on Chinese at Dartmouth College. Fluent in Mandarin, she initially intended to work in international relations before concentrating on acting.

Connie BrittonMingle MediaTV, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Peter Weller

A master's degree in Roman and Renaissance Art from Syracuse University added an unexpected dimension to Peter Weller's Life. Best known for his iconic performances in RoboCop, he later taught art history courses at Syracuse and UCLA.

Screenshot of the movie RoboCopOrion Pictures, RoboCop (1987)

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Danai Gurira

Pursuing a psychology and social work degree at Macalester College added an unexpected dimension to Danai Gurira’s path. Celebrated for her fierce performances in The Walking Dead and Black Panther, she also cultivated a deep academic interest in human behavior and social advocacy.

File:Danai Gurira (48411570387) (cropped).jpgGage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, Wikimedia Commons

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Michael Jordan

Often celebrated as basketball’s greatest player, Michael Jordan pursued a major in geography while attending UNC-Chapel Hill. His career with the Chicago Bulls redefined an era of basketball greatness, though his academic pursuits explored areas far removed from the strategies of professional sports.

Michael Jordan in ParisNikeush, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Hill Harper

Best recognized for standout roles in CSI: NY and The Good Doctor, Hill Harper built a life beyond acting. He earned a law degree from Harvard and later authored several best-selling books on self-empowerment and finance.

Portrait Photo of Hill Harper at Missouri Theatre Q&AMarcus Qwertyus, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

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America Ferrera

Graduating with a degree in international relations from the University of Southern California added an unexpected layer to America Ferrera’s background. She later dazzled audiences in Ugly Betty and Barbie to become a celebrated figure far removed from the field she chose to study.

America Ferrera speaks at TED2019TED Conference, Flickr

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Serena Williams

Building a respected fashion and entrepreneurship brand has become a notable part of Serena Williams' post-tennis journey. She pursued fashion studies at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. Her 23 Grand Slam titles and commanding on-court legacy cemented her as one of the greatest.

File:Serena Williams at 2013 US Open.jpgEdwin Martinez, Wikimedia Commons

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Mira Sorvino

Fluent in Mandarin, Mira Sorvino completed a thesis on racial conflict in China while earning her degree in East Asian Studies at Harvard. An Oscar winner celebrated for Mighty Aphrodite, she has also remained active in humanitarian advocacy.

File:MiraSorvino07TIFF.jpggdcgraphics at https://www.flickr.com/photos/gdcgraphics/, Wikimedia Commons

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Carrie Underwood 

Before winning American Idol and launching a major country music career, Carrie Underwood studied mass communications at Northeastern State University. Her polished public persona and poised interviews reflect a background where media and performance naturally intersected.

Carrie UnderwoodFeatureflash Photo Agency, Shutterstock

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John Legend

Grammy and Oscar winner John Legend, known for hits like “All of Me” and his activism, graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in English. His concentration on African-American literature deepened his lyrical storytelling and cultural awareness.

John LegendSachyn Mital, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

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Ben McKenzie 

Immersed in international politics and global systems during his college years, Ben McKenzie studied foreign affairs and economics at the University of Virginia. He later gained widespread recognition through lead roles in The O.C. to step into an entirely different arena than diplomacy.

The O.C. FactsWikimedia Commons, Gage Skidmore

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Hugh Laurie

Hugh Laurie’s name directly reminds you of sharp-witted comedy and unforgettable performances in shows like Jeeves and Wooster. Before all that, though, he studied archaeology and anthropology at Selwyn College, Cambridge.

House M.D factsGetty Images

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Whitney Port

Whitney Port, known for starring in MTV’s The Hills, earned a degree in gender studies from USC. While building a career in reality television and fashion, her academic background offers a surprising glimpse into a deeper awareness of social structures and advocacy.

File:Whitney port.jpgWalterlan Papetti, Wikimedia Commons


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