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Top 19 Toughest Courses in the World in 2025 | Amber

Education
11 min read
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Uploaded on
Mar 15, 2024
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Last updated on
Apr 30, 2025
Uploaded on
Mar 15, 2024
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Last updated on
Apr 30, 2025

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Top 19 Toughest Courses in the World in 2024
With little bit of hard work, nothing is tough!

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 Medicine, which has an average dropout rate of 18.4%, to Quantum Mechanics, with an acceptance rate of only 22.23%, and Philosophy, where over 42% of students drop out, 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 Defining 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 their alignment with the student's prior knowledge can have a substantial influence on the level of the toughest courses in the world.

2. Study Intensity

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. Methodology of Teaching

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. Evaluation Techniques

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. Impact of Personal Learning Styles

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. Foundational Requirements

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 designed to challenge the students to get the most knowledge 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 student 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

Dropout rate: 18.4%
Average acceptance rate: 3-4%
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 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

Top Universities for Medicine

1. Stanford University
2. University of Oxford
3. University of Cambridge

Highest Paying Jobs in Medicine

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Neurosurgeon $400,000 - $800,000
Cardiologist $300,000 - $700,000
Orthopedic Surgeon $350,000 - $600,000
Anesthesiologist $300,000 - $500,000
Plastic Surgeon $250,000 - $500,000

Career opportunities in medicine:

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

2. Engineering

Dropout rate: 60%
Average acceptance rate:
13%
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 utilizes 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.

Top Universities for Engineering

1. University of Cambridge
2. Stanford University

Highest Paying Jobs in Engineering

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Petroleum Engineer $100,000 - $200,000
Aerospace Engineer $85,000 - $160,000
Software Engineer/Developer $80,000 - $150,000
Nuclear Engineer $90,000 - $150,000
Chemical Engineer $75,000 - $130,000

Career Opportunities in Engineering

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

3. Chartered Accountancy

Dropout rate: 54%
Acceptance rate:
Varies
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.

Top Universities for Chartered Accountancy

1. Harvard University
2. Stanford University 
3. MIT

Highest Paying Jobs in Chartered Accountancy

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) $120,000 - $300,000
Financial Controller $100,000 - $200,000
Forensic Accountant $80,000 - $150,000
Tax Consultant $70,000 - $150,000
Management Accountant $75,000 - $140,000

Career opportunities in Chartered Accountancy

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

4. Pharmacy

Dropout rate: 14.6%
Average acceptance rate:
8.27%
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 pharmacy 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

Top Universities for Pharmacy

1. University of Oxford
2. University of Toronto
3. UCL

Highest Paying Jobs in Pharmacy
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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Pharmacist $90,000 - $140,000
Clinical Pharmacist $95,000 - $130,000
Pharmaceutical Scientist $80,000 - $150,000
Regulatory Affairs Manager $90,000 - $160,000
Pharmacovigilance Specialist $70,000 - $120,000

Career opportunities in Pharmacy

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

5. Law

Dropout rate: 38%
Acceptance rate:
11%
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

Top Universities in Law

1. Yale University
2. Columbia University
3. Harvard University

Highest Paying Jobs in Law
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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Corporate Lawyer $120,000 - $300,000
Intellectual Property Lawyer $110,000 - $250,000
Trial Lawyer $100,000 - $250,000
Tax Attorney $90,000 - $200,000
Chief Legal Officer (CLO) $150,000 - $400,000

Career Opportunities in Law

  • Tax Lawyer
  • Defence Lawyer
  • Arbitrator
  • Barrister
  • Barrister's clerk
  • Litigators
Toughest Courses in the World

6. Architecture

Dropout rate: 45%
Acceptance rate:
Varies according to different colleges
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. 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

Top Universities in Architecture

1. MIT 
2. Manchester School of Architecture
3. UCL

Highest Paying Jobs in Architecture

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Design Architect $80,000 - $150,000
Project Manager (Architecture) $90,000 - $160,000
Landscape Architect $70,000 - $120,000
Urban Planner $85,000 - $140,000
Architectural Technologist $75,000 - $130,000

Career Opportunities in Architecture

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

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

Top Universities for Psychology

1. Harvard University
2. University of Oxford
‍
3. UCL

Highest Paying Jobs in Psychology

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Psychiatrist $150,000 - $300,000
Industrial-Organizational Psychologist $90,000 - $150,000
Neuropsychologist $95,000 - $170,000
Clinical Psychologist $75,000 - $130,000
Forensic Psychologist $70,000 - $125,000

Career Opportunities in Psychology

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Educational Psychologist 
  • Sport Psychologist
  • Therapist
  • Forensic Psychology
  • HR Officer
  • Engineering Psychology

8. Statistics

Dropout rate: 5.2%
Acceptance rate:
11%
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, analyzing, 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

Top Universities for Statistics

1. MIT 
2. Stanford University
3. Harvard University

Highest Paying Jobs in Statistics

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Data Scientist $100,000 - $180,000
Actuary $90,000 - $160,000
Statistician $80,000 - $140,000
Quantitative Analyst $120,000 - $200,000
Biostatistician $80,000 - $130,000

Career Opportunities in Statistics

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

9. Quantum Mechanics

Dropout rate: 7%
Acceptance rate:
22.23%
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

Top Universities for Quantum Mechanics

1. MIT
2. Stanford University
3. University of Oxford

Highest Paying Jobs in Quantum Mechanics

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Quantum Software Engineer $130,000 - $250,000
Quantum Algorithm Developer $130,000 - $230,000
Quantum Machine Learning Scientist $120,000 - $220,000
Quantum Hardware Engineer $120,000 - $220,000
Quantum Physicist $120,000 - $200,000
Made with HTML Tables

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

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 

Top Universities for Aeronautics 

1. Harvard University
2. University of California
3. University of Cambridge

Highest Paying Jobs in Aeronautics

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Aerospace Engineer $100,000 - $160,000
Aeronautical Engineer $95,000 - $150,000
Avionics Engineer $90,000 - $140,000
Aircraft Design Engineer $85,000 - $130,000
Flight Test Engineer $80,000 - $130,000

‍Career Opportunities in Aeronautics

  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Engineering consultant
  • Aeronautical designer
  • Manufacturing Engineer
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11. Journalism

Dropout rate: 20%
Acceptance Rate:
38%
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.

Top Universities for Journalism

1. New York University
2. Stanford University
3. Columbia University

Highest Paying Jobs in Journalism

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
News Director $80,000 - $200,000
Senior Political Journalist $75,000 - $150,000
Investigative Journalist $70,000 - $130,000
Broadcast Journalist $60,000 - $120,000
Editor-in-Chief $60,000 - $110,000

‍Career Opportunities in Journalism

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

12. Actuarial Science

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, 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.

Top Universities for Actuarial Science

1. Columbia University
2. Florida State University
‍
3. Ohio State University

Highest Paying Jobs in Actuarial Science

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Chief Actuary $150,000 - $250,000
Actuarial Consultant $120,000 - $200,000
Pricing Actuary $110,000 - $180,000
Risk Manager $100,000 - $170,000
Investment Analyst $90,000 - $160,000

Career Opportunities in Actuarial Science

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

13. Nursing

Dropout rate: 20%
Acceptance rate:
66%
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.

Top Universities for Nursing

1. Johns Hopkins University
2. University of Pennsylvania
3. Emory University

Highest Paying Jobs in Nursing

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) $180,000 - $250,000
Nurse Practitioner (NP) $120,000 - $160,000
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) $100,000 - $140,000
Nurse Midwife $90,000 - $130,000
Nurse Educator $85,000 - $120,000

Career Opportunities in Nursing

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

14. Finance

Dropout rate: 25%
Acceptance rate:
66%
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.

Top Universities for Finance

1. University of California - Berkeley
2. University of Chicago
3. Stanford University
4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
5. New York University

Highest Paying Jobs in Finance

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) $200,000 - $500,000
Investment Banker $150,000 - $300,000
Hedge Fund Manager $200,000 - $1,000,000+
Private Equity Associate $120,000 - $250,000
Financial Analyst (VP/Director Level) $130,000 - $200,000

Career Opportunities in Finance

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

15. Philosophy

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.

Top Universities for Philosophy 

1. University of Sao Paulo
2. Stanford University
3. Harvard University
4. University of California - Berkeley

Highest Paying Jobs in Philosophy

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Corporate Ethics Officer $90,000 - $200,000
Policy Analyst $75,000 - $150,000
Philosophy Professor $70,000 - $140,000
Political Scientist $80,000 - $130,000
Research Analyst $65,000 - $120,000

Career Opportunities in Philosophy

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

16. Fine Arts

Dropout rate: Varies
Acceptance rate:
47.4%
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.

Top Universities for Fine Arts

1. Rhode Island School of Design 
2. The School of the Art Institute of Chicago 
3. Savannah College of Art and Design

Highest Paying Jobs in Fine Arts

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Art Director $80,000 - $150,000
Creative Director $90,000 - $140,000
Multimedia Artist and Animator $75,000 - $120,000
Industrial Designer $70,000 - $110,000
Graphic Designer (Senior Level) $60,000 - $100,000

Career Opportunities in Fine Arts

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

17. Foreign Language

Dropout rate: 42%
Acceptance rate:
30%
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.

Top Universities for Foreign Languages

1. University of Sao Paulo
2. Stanford University 
3. University of California - Berkeley 
4. Harvard University
5. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
6. University of Oxford
7. University of Toronto

Highest Paying Jobs in Foreign Languages

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Diplomatic Translator $80,000 - $150,000
International Business Consultant $75,000 - $140,000
Localization Manager $70,000 - $130,000
Foreign Language Professor $65,000 - $120,000
Interpreter $60,000 - $100,000

Career Opportunities in Foreign Languages

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

18. Veterinary Medicine

Dropout rate: 11.1%
Average acceptance rate: 50%
Subjects covered: animal behaviour, 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 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.

Top Universities for Veterinary Medicine

1. Royal Veterinary College
2. University of London
3. University of California
4. Davis
5. Cornell University

Highest Paying Jobs in Veterinary Medicine

amber

Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Veterinary Surgeon $110,000 - $200,000
Research Veterinarian $90,000 - $180,000
Veterinary Dermatologist $85,000 - $160,000
Veterinary Pathologist $80,000 - $150,000
Equine Veterinarian $75,000 - $140,000

Career Opportunities in Veterinary Medicine

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

19. Astronomy 

Dropout rate: 30-50%
Average acceptance rate: 20%
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 in the world. This subject usually demands 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.

Top Universities for Astronomy

1. California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 
2. Stanford University
3. Harvard University
4. University of Cambridge

Highest Paying Jobs in Astronomy

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Job Role Salary Range (Annual)
Astrophysicist $120,000 - $200,000
Astronomy Professor $100,000 - $180,000
Aerospace Engineer (Astronomy Field) $95,000 - $160,000
Planetary Scientist $90,000 - $150,000
Observational Astronomer $85,000 - $140,000

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, toughest 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!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most difficult course in the world?

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) was chosen as the toughest course in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records on 18 May 2011.

Which is the toughest degree in the world?

The difficulty of a degree can depend on many factors, including the individual’s strengths and interests. However, degrees in fields such as Medicine, Engineering, and Chartered Accountancy are often considered to be among the most challenging.

What are some tips for succeeding in the hardest courses?

To succeed in hard courses, stay organized, attend classes, and engage actively. Study consistently, take effective notes, and use resources like office hours and study groups. Practice regularly, seek help early, maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage your time wisely, and stay positive.

‍

Which is Asia's most difficult exam?

Some of the toughest exams in Asia include the Indian Civil Services Examination (UPSC), the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) in India, Gaokao in China, the National Examination in Indonesia, and the University Entrance Exam in South Korea (College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT).

What are the most common misconceptions about the toughest courses in the world?

A common misconception about the toughest courses in the world, such as Medicine, Mathematics, and Physics, are universally the toughest. However, the difficulty of the toughest courses in the world can vary greatly depending on the individual’s strengths, interests, and the specific requirements of the course.

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