I'm trying to decide on a major and am curious about which college degrees are often seen as the most challenging. Is it primarily STEM fields, or can other areas be just as tough?
The perception of difficulty varies widely among students based on their skills and interests, but commonly, degrees in the STEM fields — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — are often seen as the most academically challenging. Here's why:
1. Bachelor of Science in Engineering: Engineering degrees are notoriously rigorous due to their heavy coursework in math and physics, demanding projects, and high expectations for problem-solving skills.
2. Bachelor of Science in Physics: Physics involves complex mathematical problem-solving and a deep understanding of how the natural world works.
3. Bachelor of Science in Mathematics: Abstract thinking and logic are necessary for this degree. Coursework can involve complex equations and concepts that need a high level of understanding and application.
4. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: This degree often involves complex mathematical skills, coding, systems design, and debugging that might pose a significant challenge.
However, non-STEM degrees can also be demanding and time-intensive, such as:
1. Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy: This degree requires you to comprehend and articulate complex and abstract ideas, and engage in intense logical reasoning.
2. Bachelor of Arts in English: This degree typically requires a great deal of reading, writing, and critical analysis.
3. Bachelor of Fine Arts: These majors often require a significant time investment in honing a specific craft or skill, such as music, painting, or acting.
Remember, the perceived difficulty of a degree can vary greatly based on one's strengths and weaknesses. It's important to choose a major that aligns with your interests and career goals, rather than choosing solely based on the perceived difficulty level.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.