While subjectivity makes naming one "hardest" impossible, Medicine (MBBS) is most frequently cited due to its vast curriculum, long hours, and high stakes, followed closely by demanding STEM fields like Engineering (Aerospace, Chemical), Physics, and Mathematics, plus rigorous programs in Law, Chartered Accountancy, and Architecture, all requiring intense study, complex problem-solving, and high mental resilience.
Which is the toughest degree in the world? BSN or Bachelor of Science in Nursing is considered the toughest degree in the world according to the Guinness book of World Records. Following that, the other hardest degrees include engineering, medicine, IAS, IPS, etc.
The top 10 hardest degrees in the world commonly include: (1) Medicine, (2) Engineering (various branches), (3) Chartered Accountancy, (4) Architecture, (5) Physics, (6) Aerospace Engineering, (7) Chemical Engineering, (8) Law, (9) Pharmacy, and (10) Mathematics.
The most difficult majors require extensive study time, more STEM courses, and a solid foundation in math. Chemistry, engineering, and physics are generally considered some of the hardest college majors available to undergraduates.
Architecture. Architecture is known as one of the degrees that leads to the highest mental burnout due to its intense studio culture, long working hours, and demanding design expectations. Students often spend nights completing models, drawings, and critiques, which can lead to stress and exhaustion.
The most in-demand degrees in Australia consistently fall into Healthcare (Nursing), Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software), Technology (IT, Computer Science, Cybersecurity), and Business/Commerce (Accounting, Finance, Analytics), driven by workforce needs in infrastructure, tech innovation, aging populations, and ongoing economic development. Science, particularly Environmental Science, and Education are also strong areas, reflecting climate focus and population growth.
Psychology
A bachelor's in psychology ranks among the easiest majors. You can develop skills that apply to varying careers in counseling or marketing. As you complete your undergraduate psychology degree, you'll take classes such as human development, psychology theories, and research in the psychology field.
Top 20 Hardest Degrees in the World
Computer science majors have the highest dropout rate at 10.7%. Nearly one-third of dropouts are due to personal or family issues. California has the highest dropout rate, with 6.61 million students in 2023. The District of Columbia has the lowest dropout rate, with only 38,620 students in 2023.
Degrees like Medicine, Engineering, and Architecture are stressful due to long hours and high responsibility, while Creative Arts and Design can be stressful because of subjective grading and constant performance pressure.
List of the best degrees for the future
1. Precision Production. Only 28 students graduated in 2020-21 with a degree in Precision Production—and only 12 in 2021-22. This area of study focuses on giving students technical knowledge and skills to work on certain products such as mattresses, furniture, automobile seats, and others.
Top 10 Toughest Courses in India
Top 10 Most In-Demand Courses in India 2025
Now, let us explore the countries where students endure some of the toughest academic odysseys.
CollegeVine's Top 10 Hardest Majors
According to study after study, Algebra 1 is highlighted as the most failed course in America. Some estimates say that as many as 40% of students take the course more than once in order to achieve an acceptable grade.
The highest paying courses in Nigeria include Petroleum Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science, Law, Pharmacy, Architecture, Accounting, Nursing Science, Business Administration, Data Science, Environmental Science, Estate Management, Civil Engineering, Graphic Design, and Electrical Engineering.
Here are some of the highest-paying two-year degree programs to consider.
What is the easiest degree to get in 2 years?
List of Hardest Science Majors
Jobs paying $500k+ in Australia are primarily in highly specialized fields like Medical Specialists (surgeons, anaesthetists), Senior Finance/Executive Roles (CFO, Head of Treasury, Investment Directors), and high-end Sales & Construction Management (Elite Stockbrokers, Senior Project Managers/Estimators in complex sectors). While roles like Neurosurgeon and Ophthalmologist average well over $500k, achieving this in other sectors often involves performance-based bonuses or leading major projects, with opportunities listed on job boards like SEEK and Jora.
Jobs paying $200k+ in Australia are common in specialized fields like Medicine (Surgeons, Anaesthetists, Specialists), Technology (Data Scientists, Cloud Engineers), Engineering, Executive Management (C-Suite, Directors), Law, and high-end Sales, with significant opportunities also in the Mining sector, alongside specialized roles in Finance, Construction Management, and Healthcare Administration, often requiring significant experience or niche skills.
Nursing ranks #1 overall, with a 1.42% unemployment rate and high national demand; STEM fields are projected to show growth of up to 28.4% through 2033. Business and finance degrees (e.g., accounting, information systems) remain solid, offering stability and steady job growth of 6–7%.