Top 19 Toughest Courses in the World in 2024 | Amber

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 19 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.

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 maintaining a well balanced workload management 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. Individual student factors

A student's personal interests and learning style can influence their perception of the toughest courses in the world. A student who is enthusiastic about the topic might find a course engaging, while another who has trouble grasping may find it frustrating.

6. 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.

7. Admission Exams

Admission to many courses means passing an entrance exam, which is designed to challenge the students to get the most knowledgeable ones from the pool of applicants for the hardest courses in college. 

Top 19 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 19 most difficult courses in the world for all students that they  should add to their 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: 3-4%
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 choose from some of the top countries to pursue an MBBS, which suits your budget and career opportunities.  

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

Career opportunities in medicine:

• Civil healthcare servant  
• Clinical research
• Expedition medical officer
• Forensic medical examiner
• Genetic scientist
• Consultant anaesthetist
• Health service manager

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.

Career Opportunities in Engineering

• Civil Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Aerospace Engineer
• Biomedical Engineer
• Chemical Engineer
• Environmental Engineer
• Mining Engineer

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.

Career opportunities in Chartered Accountancy

• Finance
• Forensic Accounting
• Auditing
• Tax Graduate
• Accountant
• Management Accounting
• Finance Director 
• Internal auditing

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

Career opportunities in Pharmacy

• Clinical researcher
• Drug discovery consultant
• Lecturer
• Pharmacist
• Pharmacologist
• Pharmacovigilance manager
• Toxicologist

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 circumstances, 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

Career Opportunities in Law

• Tax Lawyer
• Defence Lawyer
• Arbitrator
• Barrister
• Barrister's clerk
• Litigators

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

Career Opportunities in Architecture

• Architect
• Architectural technologist
• Building surveyor
• Conservation architect
• Interior designer
• Landscape architect
• Lecturer

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

Career Opportunities in Statistics

• Data Scientist
• Actuary
• Financial Analyst 
• Market researcher
• Statistician 
• Analyst 
• Economist 
• Data analysis

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 know and understand 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

Career Opportunities in Quantum Mechanics

• Theoretical Quantum Physicists
• Physicist
• Research Associate in Physics
• Lead Research Scientist in Theoretical Physics
• Computational Quantum Physicist
• Quantum Mechanics Developer
• Research Scientist for Quantum Mechanics
• Quantum Physicist

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 

Career Opportunities in Aeronautics

• Aerospace Engineer
• Engineering consultant
• Aeronautical designer
• Manufacturing Engineer

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.

Career Opportunities in Journalism

• Broadcast journalist
• Newspaper or magazine editor
• Writer
• Film critic
• Public relations officer

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 such as: Actuarial Science, is a combination of Math, Finance, Economics, and Statistics, it 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

Career Opportunities in Actuarial Science

• Insurance
• Pensions
• Actuary
• Financial Analyst
• Business Analyst 
• Actuarial Consultancies
• Risk planner
• Credit Analyst

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.

Career Opportunities in Nursing

• Paediatric nurse
• Nurse paramedic
• Health visitor
• Occupational health nurse

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 recognised board or university. 

2. The candidates must have studied Mathematics or Statistics as a compulsory subject at the 10+2 level.

Career Opportunities in Finance

• Accounting Technician
• Actuary
• Auditor
• Bank Manager
• Banking Customer
• Bookkeeper

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 recognised board and institute 

2. They should have a minimum score of 45% at the 10+2 level.

Career Opportunities in Philosophy

• Journalist
• Lawyer
• Health care
• Writer
• Marketing
• Professor

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 recognised board.

2. They should have a minimum score of 50% marks in the aggregate.

Career Opportunities in Fine Arts

• Sculptor
• Painter
• Photographer
• Fashion Designer
• Ceramic Artist
• Animator/Graphic designers

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 recognised board and institute. 

2. Candidates should have a minimum of 45% at the 10+2 level.

Career Opportunities in Foreign Languages

• Translator
• Interpreter
• Journalist
• French teacher
• Flight attendant
• Travel agent

18. Veterinary Medicine

Top universities: Royal Veterinary College , University of London, University of California, Davis, Cornell University
Dropout rate: 11.1%
Average acceptance rate: 50%
Average salary: $131,675 per year
Subjects covered: animal behavior, animal husbandry, cell biology, nutrition, physiology, genetics and epidemiology

One of the toughest courses in the world is the study of veterinary medicine. This one of the most difficult degrees in the world demands a mastery of biology, chemistry, and surgical skills across diverse species, from domestic pets to exotic wildlife. It requires rigorous training in diagnostics, complex surgeries, and animal care, along with significant emotional resilience. Veterinarians blend scientific expertise with compassionate care, addressing the health needs of creatures unable to communicate their ailments.

Eligibility criteria:

1. A bachelor’s degree with prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and animal science is typically required.
2. The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is commonly required.
3. Veterinary experience, such as internships or volunteer work, is highly valued.
4. Completion of A-levels or equivalent with subjects like Biology and Chemistry; additional subjects like Physics or Mathematics may be required by some universities.
5. Completion of 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; a minimum percentage in these subjects is often required.

Career Opportunities in Veterinary Medicine

• Animal Physiologist 
• Veterinarian 
• Animal Surgeon 
• Veterinary Epidemiologists 
• Veterinary Dentist

19. Astronomy 

Top universities: California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Stanford University,  Harvard University, University of Cambridge
Dropout rate: 30-50%
Average acceptance rate: 20%
Average salary: $62,410 to $189,690 per year
Subjects covered: astrobiology, astronomy, astrophysics, astrostatistics, cosmology, data science

Astronomy is one of the toughest courses in the world. It is the study of the cosmos and celestial bodies. It is said to be one of the toughest degrees in the world. This subject usually demands for advanced theoretical and empirical methodologies, and it requires a good understanding of both mathematics and physics. You must demonstrate the capacity to make accurate observations and create theoretical models of astronomical occurrences in addition to having an interest in academia.

Eligibility criteria:

1. Strong foundation in Physics and Mathematics.
2. Postgraduate study is often required.

Career Opportunities in Astronomy:

• Climatologist
• Astronomy Content Writer
• Astrophysicist
• Meteorologist
• Aeronautical Engineer
• Research Scientist

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 from 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 19 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!