What's the best degree path for a potential mad scientist?

[Kato]

It's only small scope if you're thinking small. Blowing up the moon, for instance, is far from petty.

I don't want to downplay the 'mad' part of our discussion but what point is there in blowing up the moon? I'd aim for something more practical, like critical infrastructure or so. I think e.g. bridges. They're also flashy enough.