Top 10 Hardest Courses in the World (2025): Detailed Guide for Students

To identify the hardest degrees globally, we analysed the following parameters:

• Subject Complexity: How deep and challenging the theoretical knowledge is, including abstract concepts and advanced skills.
• Workload Intensity: Study hours, assignments, projects, practical training, and continuous assessments.
• Pass Rates and Competition: Acceptance rates, exam difficulty, and the effort needed to complete the course.
• Duration and Commitment: Total years of study, including internships, lab work, and specialization requirements.
• Career Impact: Responsibility, ethical considerations, and real-world consequences in the profession.
• Global Recognition: Input from top universities, experts, and professional bodies identifies these programs as highly challenging.

Here's a complete list of the hardest degrees globally based on the methodology we explained above: 

• Medicine
• Engineering
• Neuroscience Courses
• Chartered Accountancy
• Quantum Physics Courses
• Mathematics - BSc/BS Mathematics
• Architecture
• Economics
• Dentistry
• Law

Let’s get into the details of the toughest courses globally, along with their average salary, where to pursue them, and more:

Medicine courses are considered the toughest courses in the world due to their long duration, challenging curriculum, and high competition. They are also among the toughest courses in India, mainly because NEET sees millions of applicants for limited seats. Students face academic, physical, and emotional challenges while training for critical healthcare roles.

Why is Medicine the Toughest Course in the World?

Here are the key reasons why medicine courses are considered the hardest degrees globally:

• Extremely competitive admissions: Medical schools accept very few students compared to the large number of applicants.
• Long and demanding course duration: Programs last 5 to 7 years, with continuous exams and clinical requirements.
• Comprehensive and heavy syllabus: Students cover subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, and pathology.

Best Countries to Study Medicine Courses

The following countries are the top destinations for studying medicine globally:

• USA
• UK
• Canada
• Germany

Top Universities for Medicine Courses

These universities are known worldwide for excellence in medical education:

• Harvard University (USA)
• University of Oxford (UK)
• University of Toronto (Canada)
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (Germany)

Average Salary after Studying Medicine

The average salary for medical professionals ranges from USD 80,000 to 150,000 (INR 66L to 1.25 Cr) annually, depending on location.

• General Practitioner: USD 80,000-120,000 (INR 66L-1 Cr) per year
• Cardiologist: USD 120,000-180,000 (INR 1 Cr-1.5 Cr) per year
• Neurosurgeon: USD 150,000-250,000 (INR 1.25 Cr-2 Cr+) per year

Engineering is considered one of the hardest courses globally, requiring strong problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and long hours of study. Students work across mathematics, science, and practical projects to prepare for complex challenges in multiple industries.

Why is Engineering Among the Toughest Courses in the World?

Here are the key reasons why engineering degrees are considered among the hardest worldwide:

• Wide range of subjects: Students cover mathematics, physics, computer science, and specialized engineering topics.
• Heavy workload: Courses involve lectures, labs, projects, and assignments with strict deadlines.
• Tough practical applications: Students must apply concepts to real-world problems through complex designs and experiments.

Best Countries to Study Engineering Courses

These countries are globally known for high-quality engineering programs:

• USA
• UK
• Canada
• Germany

Top Universities for Engineering Courses

The following universities offer some of the top engineering programs in the world:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (USA)
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• University of Toronto (Canada)
• RWTH Aachen University (Germany)

Average Salary after Studying Engineering

The average salary for engineering graduates ranges from USD 65,000 to 100,000 (INR 54L to 83L) annually.

• Civil Engineer: USD 60,000-85,000 (INR 50L-71L) per year
• Mechanical Engineer: USD 65,000-95,000 (INR 54L-79L) per year
• Software Engineer: USD 80,000-130,000 (INR 66L-1 Cr+) per year

Neuroscience ranks among the top 10 toughest degrees in the world due to the complexity of studying the human brain and nervous system. It brings together biology, chemistry, psychology, and computational sciences to explain how neural pathways shape behaviour, cognition, and essential bodily processes.

Why is Neuroscience Among the Most Difficult Courses in the World?

Here are the main reasons neuroscience is ranked among the toughest courses in the world:

• Interdisciplinary Complexity: Combines biology, chemistry, psychology, mathematics, and computer science, requiring mastery across multiple scientific areas.
• Abstract Neural Concepts: Understanding brain function, neural pathways, synaptic transmission, and cognitive processes involves highly abstract thinking.
• Research-Intensive Study: Students must perform extensive laboratory work, data analysis, and experimental design to investigate brain mechanisms.

Best Countries to Study Neuroscience Courses

Top countries known for advanced neuroscience programs:

• USA
• UK
• Canada
• Germany

Top Universities for Neuroscience Courses

Leading universities for neuroscience studies worldwide are;

• Harvard University (USA)
• University College London (UK)
• McGill University (Canada)
• University of Cambridge (UK)

Average Salary after Studying Neuroscience

The average salary for neuroscience graduates ranges from USD 70,000 to 120,000 (INR 58L to 1 Cr) annually.

• Neuroscience Researcher: USD 70,000-95,000 (INR 58L-79L) per year
• Cognitive Neuroscientist: USD 80,000-120,000 (INR 66L-1 Cr) per year
• Clinical Neuropsychologist: USD 85,000-130,000 (INR 71L-1 Cr+) per year

CA is known to be one of the toughest courses in the world, due to extremely low pass rates and a demanding examination structure. Students learn accounting, taxation, auditing, financial management, and corporate law while completing mandatory training.

Why is Chartered Accountancy One of the World’s Toughest Courses?

Here are the main reasons CA is ranked among the most difficult courses:

• Extremely Low Pass Rates: Examinations have pass rates between 5 and 15% making it very hard.
• Multi-Level Examination Structure: Students must clear three stages: Foundation, Intermediate, and Final.
• Mandatory Practical Training: A 3-year articleship must be completed alongside studies, balancing practical work with exam preparation.

Best Countries to Study Chartered Accountancy

Top countries known for advanced CA programs:

• India
• UK
• USA
• Australia

Top Universities for Chartered Accountancy

Leading institutes for CA studies are the following: 

• Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
• Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
• CPA Australia

Average Salary after Chartered Accountancy

The average salary for Chartered Accountants ranges from USD 60,000 to 120,000 (INR 50L to 1 Cr) annually, with significant variations based on experience.

• Audit Associate: USD 50,000-70,000 (INR 41L-58L) per year
• Tax Consultant: USD 65,000-100,000 (INR 54L-83L) per year
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): USD 100,000-200,000 (INR 83L-1.6 Cr+) per year

Quantum Physics is one of the most difficult courses in the world because it challenges our understanding of reality at the subatomic level. Students must grasp counterintuitive concepts about particle behavior, wave-particle duality, and quantum mechanics.

Why is Quantum Physics Among the Toughest Courses in the World?

Here are the main reasons why Quantum Physics ranks among the toughest degrees globally:

• Highly Abstract Concepts: Students study superposition, entanglement, and quantum tunneling, which have no classical analogues.
• Advanced Mathematical Requirements: Mastery of differential equations, linear algebra, and probability theory is essential.
• Theoretical and Experimental Challenges: Students must understand complex theories and conduct accurate experiments with equipment.

Best Countries to Study Quantum Physics Courses

Quantum Physics programs are strongest in countries with leading research facilities:

• USA
• UK
• Germany
• Canada

Top Universities for Quantum Physics Courses

The following universities offer top-ranked Quantum Physics courses with global recognition:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (USA)
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
• University of Waterloo (Canada)

Average Salary after Quantum Physics Courses

The average salary for quantum physics graduates ranges from USD 80,000 to 150,000 (INR 66L to 1.25 Cr) annually.

• Quantum Research Scientist: USD 80,000-120,000 (INR 66L-1 Cr) per year
• Quantum Computing Engineer: USD 100,000-150,000 (INR 83L-1.25 Cr) per year
• University Professor (Quantum Physics): USD 90,000-140,000 (INR 75L-1.16 Cr) per year

Mathematics is considered one of the hardest degrees globally, requiring advanced problem-solving, logical reasoning, and abstract thinking. Students must work on complex equations and theories that test analytical and cognitive skills.

Why is Mathematics One of the Hardest Courses in the World?

Here are the main reasons why Mathematics is known to be one of the most difficult courses to learn:

• Abstract Concepts: Topics like topology, algebra, and number theory have no direct physical form.
• Advanced Problem-Solving: Students tackle difficult equations and puzzles requiring deep logical thinking.
• High Precision Required: Even minor calculation mistakes can change the outcome of complex problems.

Best Countries to Study Mathematics Courses

Leading programs in Mathematics are offered in the following countries:

• USA
• UK
• Germany
• Canada

Top Universities for Mathematics Courses

These universities provide top-tier Mathematics education and research opportunities:

• Harvard University (USA)
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• University of Toronto (Canada)
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (Germany)

Average Salary after Mathematics Courses

The average salary for mathematics graduates ranges from USD 55,000 to 85,000 (INR 46L to 71L) annually.

• Data Analyst: USD 60,000-90,000 (INR 50L-75L) per year
• Statistician: USD 65,000-95,000 (INR 54L-79L) per year
• Quantitative Analyst: USD 80,000-150,000 (INR 66L-1.25 Cr) per year

Architecture combines creativity, technical knowledge, and design precision. Students must create functional, safe, and visually appealing structures while learning engineering principles and building codes.

Why is Architecture Among the Difficult Courses in the World?

Here are the main reasons why Architecture is ranked among the toughest courses in the world:

• Time-Intensive Projects: Students spend long hours creating detailed models, drawings, and designs.
• Mix of Art and Science: The program requires both creative imagination and strong technical knowledge.
• Continuous Deadlines: Regular studio work, design reviews, and site visits keep students under constant pressure.

Best Countries to Study Architecture Courses

These countries are known for top architecture programs and professional recognition:

• USA
• UK
• Germany
• Australia

Top Universities for Architecture Courses

These universities offer globally recognized programs in architecture:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (USA)
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
• University of Melbourne (Australia)

Average Salary after Architecture Courses

The average salary for architecture graduates ranges from USD 50,000 to 80,000 (INR 41L to 66L) annually.

• Architectural Designer: USD 50,000-70,000 (INR 41L-58L) per year
• Project Architect: USD 65,000-95,000 (INR 54L-79L) per year
• Principal Architect: USD 80,000-130,000 (INR 66L-1 Cr+) per year

Economics is one of the hardest courses in the world, requiring students to analyze complex financial systems, understand market behavior, and apply quantitative methods to real-world economic problems.

Why is Economics One of the Toughest Courses Globally?

Here are the main reasons why Economics is one of the hardest subjects in the world:

• Complex Quantitative Analysis: Students must master statistics, econometrics, and mathematical modeling.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Economics combines finance, mathematics, politics, and social sciences, demanding versatility.
• High-Level Critical Thinking: Evaluating policies, markets, and global trends requires analytical rigor and strategic reasoning.

Best Countries to Study Economics Courses

These countries are home to some of the top economics programs in the world:

• USA
• UK
• Canada
• Germany

Top Universities for Economics Courses

These universities provide globally popular programs in economics:

• Harvard University (USA)
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• University of Toronto (Canada)
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (Germany)

Average Salary after Economics Courses

The average salary for economics graduates ranges from USD 55,000 to 90,000 (INR 46L to 75L) annually.

• Economic Analyst: USD 55,000-80,000 (INR 46L-66L) per year
• Financial Economist: USD 70,000-110,000 (INR 58L-92L) per year
• Policy Advisor: USD 65,000-100,000 (INR 54L-83L) per year

Dentistry requires a rare combination of medical knowledge, technical skill, and patient care expertise. Students study anatomy, physiology, pathology, and dental sciences while also performing precise dental procedures.

Why is Dentistry the Most Difficult Course in the World?

Dentistry challenges students to combine theoretical knowledge with practical expertise:

• High Precision Required: Students must work on very small areas of the mouth with extreme accuracy.
• Great Responsibility: Mistakes can directly impact a patient’s health, comfort, or appearance.
• Continuous Learning: Rapid advances in dental tools, materials, and treatment methods require ongoing skill development.

Best Countries to Study Dentistry Courses

These countries are known for their advanced dental education programs:

• USA
• UK
• Germany
• Canada

Top Universities for Dentistry Courses

These universities provide internationally top programs with strong research:

• Harvard University (USA)
• King's College London (UK)
• University of Toronto (Canada)
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (Germany)

Average Salary after Dentistry Courses

The average annual salary for dental professionals ranges from USD 70,000 to 120,000 (INR 58L to 1 Cr).

• General Dentist: USD 70,000-110,000 (INR 58L-92L) per year
• Orthodontist: USD 120,000-180,000 (INR 1 Cr-1.5 Cr) per year
• Oral Surgeon: USD 150,000-250,000 (INR 1.25 Cr-2 Cr+) per year

Law is another demanding program that requires you to devote time, effort, and dedication for years to establish yourself comfortably in the legal profession. Students learn to interpret complex statutes, analyze case law, and present well-structured arguments.

Why is Law Considered as One of the Toughest Courses in the World?

Law challenges students to master a huge body of knowledge and apply it effectively in real-world scenarios.

• Vast Volume of Material: Students study extensive case law, legal texts, and statutes.
• Analytical and Writing Skills: Developing structured arguments and problem-solving in legal contexts is crucial.
• Practical Demands: Internships, moot courts, and additional assignments require long hours and consistent effort.

Best Countries to Study Law Courses

These countries are known for their top legal education programs:

• USA
• UK
• Canada
• Australia

Top Universities for Law Courses

These universities offer the best law programs globally:

• Harvard University (USA)
• University of Cambridge (UK)
• Yale University (USA)
• University of Oxford (UK)

Average Salary after Law Courses

The average salary for law graduates ranges from USD 90,000 to 150,000 (INR 75L to 1.25 Cr) yearly.

• Corporate Lawyer: USD 90,000-140,000 (INR 75L-1.16 Cr) per year
• Criminal Defense Attorney: USD 70,000-120,000 (INR 58L-1 Cr) per year
• Partner at Law Firm: USD 150,000-300,000+ (INR 1.25 Cr-2.5 Cr+) per year

India has some of the most competitive academic programs globally due to limited seats, national-level exams, and high competition.

Here is the list based on entrance difficulty, low pass rates, and rigorous academic training:

Choosing a tough degree can be overwhelming, as you not only struggle with managing a heavy workload, but also a lot of self-learning happens along with balancing practical training with theoretical studies. Staying consistent and seeking guidance from seniors or mentors can make the journey less stressful.

Yocket Premium can make this process much easier by giving you personalized insights, university reviews, and expert guidance for your chosen degree. It helps you track application deadlines, compare courses, and connect with students who have already navigated the toughest programs.