Ever feel like your brain is about to explode from studying? Think your current coursework is tough? Hold tight because we are diving into the top 17 toughest courses in the world! From engineering feats to medical mysteries, this list of the toughest courses in the world will have you saying, "Maybe organic chemistry wasn't so bad after all!" Get ready to be amazed (and maybe a little terrified) by the intellectual challenges these courses offer.
Top 17 Toughest Courses in the World
While many courses are available worldwide, some are known for their intricate complexities, academic rigour, and intellectual depth. Here is a list of the top 17 most difficult courses in the world for all students that all students should add to their learning and internship bucket. You will also learn about the universities that provide this education, the average salary, the acceptance rate and the highest jobs in each field.
1. Medicine
Top universities: Stanford University, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge
Dropout rate: 18.4%
Average acceptance rate: 10.7%
Average salary: $352,000
Subjects covered: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pathology, and Clinical Medicine
One of the toughest courses in the world is the study of medicine. After all, learning about the many intricacies of the human body is definitely not an easy feat! The course duration is usually five years, and one needs to complete another three years if one wishes to specialise in any particular medical field. You can go to any of the countries to pursue an MBBS, which suits your budget and career opportunities.
Highest paying jobs in medicine:
1. Internal Medicine Physician
2. Neuroscientist
3. Paediatrician
4. Optometrist
5. Dentist
Eligibility criteria:
1. High school diploma or equivalent qualifications
2. A four-year master's degree from an accredited college or university
3. Preparatory work in Biology, English, and other courses that meet the requirements of the medical school they are applying to
4. A minimum GPA of 3.3 in college
5. Minimum TOEFL and IELTS results
6. Minimum MCAT or UCAT exam result (set by each university individually)
7. Evidence of research or community work experience related to medicine and healthcare
2. Engineering
Top universities: University of Cambridge, Stanford University
Dropout rate: 60%
Average acceptance rate: 13%
Average salary: $81,000
Subjects covered: Mathematics, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Computer Programming, and Engineering Graphics and Design
Want to become the architect of the future? Engineering might be your calling! One of the world's toughest degree courses, Engineering utilises a student's ability for critical and logical thinking. You can choose to specialise in any of the many branches of engineering. If you wish to pursue Engineering as a career, you should be willing to learn Math and Science, coupled with a creative and analytical mindset.
Eligibility criteria:
1. A broad general education of at least five GCSEs at grades 9-4. English language, Science and Mathematics
2. A minimum of two A-Levels – but for the most popular courses, three A-Levels at A/B grade are commonly needed
3. Admissions tests based on the course and university you're applying to
4. SAT or ACT requirements
5. For graduate study, a relevant bachelor's degree and the student may be required to submit GRE scores.
3. Chartered Accountancy
Top Universities: Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT
Dropout rate: 54%
Acceptance rate: Varies
Average salary: $134,000
Subjects covered: Financial Accounting, Auditing, Taxation, Financial Management, and Corporate Regulations
Enter the world of numbers and regulations! Chartered accountancy is one of the most respected and rewarding professions, but it is also the toughest bachelor's degree in the world. If you're aiming to pursue this hardest subject in the world, then you must have a deeper understanding of tax laws and auditing standards. The entrance exams for Chartered Accountancy are equally challenging and are set to test the logical and numerical skills of the students.
Eligibility Criteria:
1. A minimum of 50% marks in their 3-year bachelor's degree or have completed the CA/CS course
2. A minimum of 60% marks in their graduation/post-graduation if they are from a non-commerce background
3. Proof of English language proficiency
4. Additional qualifications such as ACCA in the UK and the CPT or ICAI's Foundation Course Exam in India.
4. Pharmacy
Top universities: University of Oxford, University of Toronto, UCL
Dropout rate: 14.6%
Average acceptance rate: 8.27%
Average salary: $10,714
Subjects covered: Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacognosy, and Biochemistry
Pursuing Pharmacy is quite popular among students who like to study Chemistry and Biology; however, it is one of the hardest subjects in the world. It is an important course, as hospitals and pharmacies would have never existed without pharmaceutical courses. Pharmacists play a vital role in ensuring the safe and effective use of medications. Though it is not as hard as studying medicine, it is still considered one of the most difficult courses in the world.
Eligibility criteria:
1. For A-level, subjects should include Chemistry and usually one other science such as Biology, Maths or Physics
2. For BTEC, Applied Science or one or two science-based A-levels
3. At least five GCSEs, with a grade C/4 or above, including English, Maths, and often a science-based subject
4. A higher level in Chemistry with a grade of 6 is needed for most courses
5. Law
Top universities: Yale University, Columbia University, Harvard University
Dropout rate: 38%
Acceptance rate: 11%
Average salary: $135,740
Subjects covered: Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Contracts, and Property and Legal Research
Law is also the toughest course in the world. Laws govern a country's function and help governments run their administration seamlessly. Pursuing Law requires mental awareness, observational skills, patience, and high perceptual abilities. If you have a keen passion for justice and ethics, then Law is the course for you, which you can pursue from some of the best law schools in the world!
Eligibility criteria:
1. High school diploma or a certificate that equates to 12 years of study
2. At least a grade C or B, or a level 4 or above, at GCSE in English, Math, and, in certain cases, a subject such as foreign languages
3. At least three A Levels with AAA or AAB grades, and in some circ*mstances, at least one A-Level
4. LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is required partially
5. A high English language proficiency score is necessary for international students
6. Architecture
Top universities: MIT, Manchester School of Architecture, UCL
Dropout rate: 45%
Acceptance rate: Varies according to different colleges
Average salary: $74,000
Subjects covered: Architectural History, Design Theory, Structural Engineering, Environmental Systems, and Construction Management
If you dream of becoming the artist behind those skyscrapers and state-of-the-art buildings adorning cities across countries, Architecture is for you! Studying Architecture is usually regarded as an easy course, but actually, it is the hardest course in the world. It is not just about designing the interior and exterior of buildings but a blend of Art and Science. In fact, there are some of the best architecture universities in the UK and architecture schools in the US for students.
Eligibility criteria:
1. A minimum of 32 International Baccalaureate points
2. A score of AAB or higher in A-levels with a focus on Art, Science, and writing ability
3. An IELTS score of 6.5 or higher, with a minimum of 6.0 in all four tasks individually
4. Entrance exams based on the university you're applying to
5. A portfolio along with an interview may be required
7. Psychology
Top universities: Harvard University, University of Oxford, UCL
Dropout rate: 45%
Acceptance rate: 13%
Average salary: $167,000
Subjects covered: Cognitive Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Criminology, Neuropsychology, and Counselling Psychology
The study of human behaviour in light of various contexts, including individual, sociological, psychological, and economic factors, Psychology is one of the toughest courses in the world. It is the scientific study of the human mind, where one can study the major branches of Psychology. As every person thinks differently, the study keeps evolving, making it a challenging study, which makes it one of the world's toughest bachelor's degrees.
Eligibility criteria:
1. A certain number of psychology-specific courses, which may vary depending on the institution and degree level
2. A grade of C- or better in each required course
3. Cognate courses in the humanities, arts, and natural and social sciences
4. An English Language Qualification such as IELTS 7.0 overall
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8. Statistics
Top universities: MIT, Stanford University, Harvard University
Dropout rate: 5.2%
Acceptance rate: 11%
Average salary: $99,960
Subjects covered: Probability Theory, Statistical Inference, Regression Analysis, and Experimental Design
Next on our list of the most difficult courses in the world is Statistics, the science of collecting, analysing, and interpreting data. To pursue Statistics, students need to be proficient in Mathematics and possess critical analytical thinking skills. Students must also be patient and apply logic in their work.
Eligibility criteria:
1. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all courses used to satisfy the major requirements
2. Preparatory work in Statistics, Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Computer Science
3. A minimum of 47 semester hours of work for the major
4. STAT 160ABC or equivalent may be required
9. Quantum Mechanics
Top universities: MIT, Stanford University, University of Oxford
Dropout rate: 7%
Acceptance rate: 22.23%
Average salary: $1,87,751
Subjects covered: Wave-particle Duality, Schrodinger Equation, and Quantum States and Operators
Quantum Mechanics requires a student to be well-versed in theories of Physics and Mathematics. It is one of the hardest courses in the world. Quantum Mechanics is the study of atoms and particles and uses multiple theories put up by eminent scientists and mathematicians. This is why Quantum Mechanics is one of the toughest courses in the world, as one is required to be well-versed in topics that most would consider quite difficult.
Eligibility criteria:
1. Preparatory work in Mathematics, including Calculus and Partial Derivatives
2. Courses in Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Thermodynamics
3. Bachelor's degree in Physics or a related field
4. A minimum GPA of 3.0 in their undergraduate coursework
5. GRE scores may be required
10. Aeronautics
Top universities: Harvard University, University of California, University of Cambridge
Dropout rate: 4%
Acceptance rate: 60%
Average salary: $93,000
Subjects covered: Aerodynamics, Aircraft Structures and Materials, Flight Mechanics, and Aircraft Control Systems
Aeronautics is a branch of Engineering, but it deserves to be on our list of the toughest courses in the world as it is so vast and is used in the study of planes and spacecraft. Aeronautics is all about the meticulous engineering and construction of motors, structures, and hardware for aerial vehicles. Students aiming for Aeronautics, the hardest subject in the world, must possess a passion for aviation and a keen eye for detail to ensure the safety and efficiency of the aircraft.
Eligibility criteria:
1. A relevant bachelor's degree and a high school diploma or equivalent qualifications in Chemistry, Fluid Dynamics, and Physics
2. Preparatory work in Mathematics, including Calculus and Analytic Geometry
3. General education courses, such as English, History, or Humanities, to satisfy the particular requirements of their university
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11. Journalism
Top universities: New York University, Stanford University, Columbia University
Dropout rate: 20%
Acceptance Rate: 38%
Average salary: $38,335
Subjects covered: Feature Writing, Media Law, Digital Media, and Broadcast Journalism
Journalism is considered one of the toughest courses globally because of its unique skill requirements. Students are expected to inculcate good writing, logical and critical reasoning, pressure handling, and investigative skills. Journalism students must also have good communication skills and the ability to work under pressure.
Eligibility criteria:
1. The applicant must have completed 10+2 and clear English proficiency tests.
12. Actuarial Science
Top universities: Columbia University, Florida State University, Ohio State University
Dropout rate: 40%
Acceptance rate: 24%
Average salary: $86,023
Subjects covered: Risk Modelling, Financial Mathematics, Theory of Probability, and Mathematical Statistics
The hardest course in the world, Actuarial Science, is a combination of Math, Finance, Economics, and Statistics that guides individuals in assessing risk management in industries like finance and insurance. Students pursuing Actuarial Science must be proficient in Mathematical modelling and possess strong analytical skills, making it one of the toughest degree courses in the world!
Eligibility criteria:
1. Applicants must complete 10+2 or higher secondary education with English, Mathematics, or Statistics as main subjects
2. Students should fulfil the entrance requirements which are set by relevant authorities
13. Nursing
Top universities: Johns Hopkins University, University of Pennsylvania, Emory University
Dropout rate: 20%
Acceptance rate: 66%
Average salary: $39.78 per hour
Subjects covered: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, and Mental Health Nursing
Nursing isn't just about taking temperatures and changing bedpans. It's a demanding blend of in-depth knowledge, hands-on practice, and real-world experience. One of the toughest courses in the world, the curriculum requires a strong foundation of scientific principles and intricate medical terminology. Constant testing adds to the pressure, ensuring nurses are ready for the critical decisions they'll face at the bedside.
Eligibility criteria:
1. Entry requirements for nursing programs differ among universities.
2. Typically, applicants need a minimum of two (often three) A-levels or equivalent qualifications at level 3.
3. Equivalent qualifications may include T levels or BTECs.
4. Supporting GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science (usually biology or human biology) are required.
14. Finance
Top universities: University of California - Berkeley, University of Chicago, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, New York University
Dropout rate: 25%
Acceptance rate: 66%
Average salary: $95,920
Subjects covered: Quantitative Methods, Financial Management, Portfolio Management, Financial Markets, Commercial Banking, Fixed Income Securities, and International Business Economics
Finance, the study of money management and its impact on individuals and businesses, is often crowned the hardest subject in the world. It delves into intricate financial concepts like auditing, taxation, and financial reporting, demanding a deep understanding of how money moves and economies function. Beyond the theory, finance throws you into a gauntlet of exams testing not only your knowledge but your ability to apply it to real-world situations.
Eligibility criteria:
1. Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent with an aggregate of at least 60% marks from a recognized board or university.
2. The candidates must have studied Mathematics or Statistics as a compulsory subject at the 10+2 level.
15. Philosophy
Top universities: University of Sao Paulo, Stanford University, University of California - Berkeley, Harvard University
Dropout rate: 42%
Acceptance rate: 22.2%
Average salary: $62,678 per year
Subjects covered: Logic, Ethics, Metaphysics, Epistemology, and the History of Philosophy
Philosophy is considered one of the toughest courses in the world due to its abstract nature. It delves into fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, morality, and beauty. Unlike disciplines with concrete answers, philosophy compels students to analyse, debate critically, and form reasoned arguments about these complex and often subjective topics. This makes it one of the hardest courses in college.
Eligibility criteria:
1. Students should have completed 10+2 from a recognized board and institute
2. They should have a minimum score of 45% at the 10+2 level.
16. Fine Arts
Top universities: Rhode Island School of Design, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Savannah College of Art and Design
Dropout rate: Varies
Acceptance rate: 47.4%
Average salary: $50,533 per year
Subjects covered: Painting, Visual Arts, Graphic Design, Textile Design, Dance, Sculpture, Acting, Calligraphy, Drama, and Theatre
Fine Arts, encompassing a vast array of disciplines like painting, sculpture, and filmmaking, is renowned for being one of the toughest courses in the world. Not only does it require a deep well of creativity and unwavering dedication, but also significant time investment. Students are constantly honing their skills and producing new works, pushing the boundaries of their artistic expression.
Eligibility criteria:
1. Candidates must have completed their 10+2 examination or equivalent from any recognized board.
2. They should have a minimum score of 50% marks in the aggregate.
17. Foreign Language
Top universities: University of Sao Paulo, Stanford University, University of California - Berkeley, Harvard University, University of Toronto, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, University of Oxford
Dropout rate: 42%
Acceptance rate: 30%
Average salary: $62,678 per year
Subjects covered: Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing Skills, and Effective Communicative Proficiency
Foreign language study, the process of acquiring a language other than your native tongue, is the hardest subject in the world. This difficulty stems from the inherent complexities of languages themselves. Each language possesses unique grammatical structures, writing systems that can be quite intricate, and diverse linguistic features like tones or genders that require mastery.
Eligibility criteria:
1. Students should have completed 10+2 from a recognized board and institute.
2. Candidates should have a minimum of 45% at the 10+2 level.
Factors Determining What Makes a Course Difficult
Understanding the toughest courses in the world may have a significant influence on a student's academic career. Several factors influence students' learning experiences and outcomes, including the perceived difficulty of the course they're aiming to pursue. Determining the toughest courses in the world involves several aspects:
1. Subject Complexity
The complexity of the hardest courses in the world and its alignment with the student's prior knowledge can have a substantial influence on the level of the toughest courses in the world.
2. Workload
The sheer number of assignments, readings, and projects adds to the perceived difficulty, as heavy workloads may be exhausting for these toughest courses in the world.
3. Teaching Style
How effectively students absorb topics from the most difficult subject in the world is influenced by the instructor's teaching style, communication, and clarity of instruction.
4. Assessment Methods
Evaluation methods such as exams, essays, or practical assignments affect the ease of assessment and can impact student stress levels of any toughest subject in the world.
5. Prerequisites
The toughest course in the world with particular requirements assumes a certain level of expertise. Students may struggle if these criteria are not met.
Which Country has the Toughest Education?
Some countries are known for their incredibly demanding education systems. Students face intense pressure to excel, with long hours of studying, challenging exams, and fierce competition fromfor top universities. These tough courses in the world aim to produce highly skilled graduates, but they can also lead to stress, burnout, and feelings of isolation for students. Some of the countries with the toughest courses in the world are-
1. South Korea
2. China
3. Japan
4. India
5. Singapore
6. Finland
7. Hong Kong
So, these are the 17 hardest subjects in the world! They are not mere subjects but transformative journeys shaping students into experts in their fields. With just a pinch of dedication, perseverance, and hard work, you can excel in these toughest courses in the world. All the best!
