Hello! I'm trying to get my head around what I should major in when I get to college. Gotta admit, I'm a bit drawn to challenging subjects (masochistic, I know 😅). Could anyone give me a bit of insight on what the hardest fields of study generally are in university? Why would they be considered so tough?
The difficulty of a college major can vary widely depending on an individual's strengths, weaknesses, and interests; however, there are a few fields of study that are often singled out for their inherent complexity and demanding coursework.
Engineering is often cited as one of the most challenging fields of study. The difficulty lies in the depth and breadth of its curriculum, with heavy focus on math, physics, and computer science. Stimulating but strenuous, engineering often requires a substantial commitment of time and effort, with the reward being a strong foundation in problem-solving, creativity, and the ability to design, develop and optimize systems.
Physics and Mathematics are two other majors that people often identify as difficult due to their rigorous curriculums. Physics requires an intimate understanding of complex principles and theories about how our universe works down to the smallest particle and up to the largest galaxy. Mathematics is seen as challenging since it involves abstract concepts and intricate problem-solving, well beyond what is taught at the high school level.
On the non-STEM side, some students find areas of study such as Philosophy or Linguistics challenging due to the intense critical thinking and abstract reasoning required. Philosophy grapples with abstract concepts and works towards careful, clear, and logical argumentation. Linguistics, on the other hand, focuses on the scientific study of language, which includes understanding phonetics, syntax, and semantics.
Lastly, Pre-Med or Biomedical courses can be seen as challenging due to heavy course loads, competitive grading system, and the high intensity of lab and coursework.
Again, what constitutes 'difficult' varies from person to person. Some students may find these majors exciting and engaging rather than daunting. The key is to find an area you are genuinely interested in, as passion can lower the perceived difficulty of your studies!
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