What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

What's considered the most difficult major in university?

Hello everyone! I'm soon deciding on my major and I wanna challenge myself. In terms of workload, complex subject matter, and general difficulty, which fields of study are often considered the most strenuous in university? Are there specific majors notorious for being the toughest? Any advice or experience you can share would be appreciated, cheers!

a month ago

There isn't a definitive answer to your question as the difficulty of a major can largely depend on a student's individual strengths and interests. However, there are certain disciplines that are often considered challenging due to the heavy workload, complex subject matter, and rigorous academic standards.

Engineering, for instance, is regularly cited as one of the toughest majors. It often requires strong mathematical competencies, a good understanding of scientific principles, and the ability to solve practical problems. Whether it's Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering, the amount of coursework and problem-solving can be quite intense.

Physical Sciences, such as Physics or Chemistry, also rank highly for their demanding subject matter. Physics, in particular, requires a deep understanding of complex equations and theories.

Pre-Med and other health sciences often come with a lot of coursework, lab time, and the challenge of preparing for medical school if that's your path. These programs require a high degree of dedication and resilience, and can be quite strenuous.

Computer Science is another field that typically demands a heavy workload and strong mathematical aptitude. Programming, algorithms, data structures, and software design are just a few examples of the complex subject matters you would encounter in this major.

Keep in mind that the rigour of these degrees can vary by university, and what one person finds difficult, another might find engaging and invigorating. It is also worth mentioning that a challenging major can lead to rewarding careers in highly respected fields. Therefore, it's crucial to balance your decision between your interests, academic strengths, and your long-term career goals. Good luck with your studies!

a month ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

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.