15 Actors With Unexpected College Degrees

15. Sacha Baron Cohen has a history degree

Sacha Baron Cohen isn’t just a brilliant comedian, he also earned a history degree from the University of Cambridge. His academic background adds a layer of depth to his work, blending humor with a solid understanding of the past. | © Paramount Pictures

14. Meghan Markle has degree in international studies

Meghan Markle earned a bachelor's degree in international studies, showcasing her passion for global affairs. Alongside her theatre background, her education reflects a well-rounded blend of arts and an interest in understanding the world. | © Hallmark

13. Josh Duhamel enrolled in biology

Josh Duhamel, known for his role in All My Children and the Transformers movies, earned a degree in biology from Minot State University in North Dakota. Although he originally planned to attend dental school, his grades steered him toward biology, and he completed his degree in 2005. | © Netflix

12. Ben McKenzie studied foreign affairs and economics

Ben McKenzie is best known as Ryan Atwood from The O.C., but he also earned his stripes studying foreign affairs and economics at the University of Virginia. After graduating, he moved to New York to kickstart his acting career, proving he has more than one talent. | © 20th Century Studios

11. Fred Thompson earned a juris doctor

Fred Thompson is not only a former US senator and actor, but he also earned his juris doctor from Vanderbilt University. He started his studies at Memphis State in 1964 and later turned his legal background into a successful career in politics and film. | © Samuel Goldwyn Films

10. Freddie Highmore studied Spanish and Arabic

Freddie Highmore is not only known for his memorable roles in films like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Bates Motel, but he also proved his academic skills. While filming, he studied Spanish and Arabic at Cambridge’s Emmanuel College and earned a double first. | © Miramax Films

9. Rashida Jones graduated in religion and philosophy

Rashida Jones earned her degree in religion and philosophy from Harvard University, graduating in 1997. Her thoughtful approach is evident in her roles on hit sitcoms like The Office and Parks and Recreation. | © Apple TV+

8. Cole Sprouse has degree in archeology

Cole Sprouse surprised many by earning a degree in archaeology from NYU’s Gallatin School in 2015. He focused on Geographical Information Systems and Satellite Imaging, showing his interest in digging into the past. | © Warner Bros. Television

7. Rowan Atkinson holds degree in electrical engineering

Rowan Atkinson is famous for his comedic roles, but he also has a solid academic background with a degree in electrical engineering from Newcastle University. He later earned a master’s degree at Oxford, where he connected with Richard Curtis and set the stage for his iconic career. | © ITV

6. Dakota Fanning earned degree in women’s studies

Dakota Fanning had already starred in two Twilight movies and a bunch of TV shows when she enrolled at New York University in 2011. She balanced her acting career with her studies at NYU's Gallatin School of Individualized Study, earning a degree in women's studies in 2016. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

5. America Ferrera has a diploma in international relations

America Ferrera is known for her standout roles, but she also earned a diploma in international relations from USC’s Dana and David Dornsife College. She paused her studies for her role in Ugly Betty and later completed her degree, proving that education is as important as her acting career. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

4. Bridgit Mendler holds a degree in anthropology

The Disney Channel’s Bridgit Mendler surprised many by earning a degree in anthropology from USC in 2016. Her love of learning shows through, as she later pursued advanced studies at MIT and Harvard Law. | © Netflix

3. Will Ferrell graduated with a degree in sports information

Will Ferrell is known for hilarious roles, but he also earned a degree in sports information from the University of Southern California in 1990. He later joked about the program’s difficulty during a commencement speech, where he even received an honorary doctorate. | © Paramount Pictures

2. Lisa Kudrow holds a degree in biology

Lisa Kudrow isn’t just known for her acting, she also earned a degree in biology from Vassar College in 1985. She even returned to her alma mater in 2010 to deliver the commencement address to a very, very fortunate graduating class. | © Walt Disney Pictures

1. Natalie Portman has bachelor’s degree in psychology

Natalie Portman is not just a talented actress, she's also a smart individual with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Harvard College in 2003. However, she was already building her acting career even before college, proving that her talents extend far beyond the screen. | © Marvel