5 Footballers who hold/held educational qualifications

Shaka Hislop (Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering)

Hislop even interned at NASA before making his name in football.

Shaka Hislop, who spent a considerable time in the English Premier League with the likes of Newcastle United, Portsmouth and West Ham has enjoyed quite a stellar career. He was part of a successful Newcastle United line-up under Kevin Keegan and while he might not have won any silverware at the St. James Park, he has etched himself in the glorious memoirs of the Premier League, courtesy of his performances in between the sticks.

However, before he became a professional footballer, Hislop actually enjoyed quite a great academic career. After graduating from St Mary’s College in Trinidad, the former Newcastle United man earned himself a scholarship at the Howard University. While the studies were expected to take the front seat after Hislop enrolled himself for a Mechanical engineering course, it was not to be as Hislop continued to play football and was part of the side that reached NCAA finals as a freshman.

The shot-stopper eventually graduated with honours in Mechanical Engineering before being spotted by a Reading scout during a friendly against Aston Villa and Reading wasted no time in ensuring that they acquired his signature at the earliest.

What is even more fascinating that Hislop actually even interned at the NASA while pursuing his Mechanical Engineering.

The Hackney-born shot-stopper, who retired at the end of the 2006-07 season, is currently involved with ESPN as a commentator and analyst and remains one of the most educated footballers to have graced the game.