What are the most difficult college degrees to earn?

Hi everyone, I'm not afraid of a challenge, but I want to be prepared. So, just curious - what are known to be some of the most difficult degrees to earn in college? Does it differ depending on the school or is it more about the subject matter? I'm particularly interested in STEM, but any info would be helpful. Thanks in advance.

Hello there, it's great that you're preparing ahead and willing to take on a challenge. Most difficult majors largely depend on individual aptitude and passion for the subject, but there are traditionally some fields of study in higher education that are known to be quite rigorous.

Often, the hard sciences and engineering fields are considered very challenging due to the complex and abstract conceptual understanding they demand, as well as a heavy workload of assignments and projects. Fields like Biochemical, Chemical, Aerospace, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering are considered some of the most demanding because these programs often encompass a range of demanding subjects, including higher-level math, physics, and computer programming. Similarly, degrees in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology require a lot of dedication and hard work because of extensive lab hours, complex concepts, and cumulative exams.

Degrees in Healthcare are also considered challenging, with popular choices including Nursing, Medicine, and Pharmacy. These courses require a high degree of memorization and understanding of medical terminologies, human biology, patient care, and the application of ethical considerations.

In the realm of humanities, Law and Philosophy majors are known to be quite challenging because they require a high level of critical thinking, analytical skills, and extensive writing.

Remember, the degree of difficulty of any program can indeed vary from institution to institution based on the specific curriculum, teaching style, and resources available. How challenging you find a program will also largely depend on your personal strengths, interests, and dedication to the field. I highly recommend speaking with current students, professors, or seeking advice from academic advisors to gain more specific insights on the instructor's teaching style and the curriculum for your specific major of interest. This can give you a better idea of how well you might fit with a certain program. Best of luck on your academic journey!