Thinking About Your Future Career? Some Majors Aren’t Just Competitive—They’re Brutal.
Every high school student dreams of finding the perfect college major—one that’s exciting, fulfilling, and ideally, opens doors to future success. But let’s be real: not all majors are created equal. Some demand intense study hours, complex labs, and brain-burning exams that can stretch even the brightest minds.
Understanding what makes a major challenging can help you prepare early, whether through AP classes, college prep tools, or even career exploration. This post breaks down the top 10 hardest college majors, why they’re tough, and how to get a head start.
How Are College Majors Ranked by Difficulty?
College major difficulty is often measured by workload, subject complexity, and long-term academic or professional demands. Here’s a closer look:
Study Hours and Workload
According to the National Survey of Student Engagement, students in engineering and physical sciences majors report the most hours studying each week—often exceeding 18+ hours outside of class (Big Economics, 2023). Labs, problem sets, and research papers mean these students don’t just cram—they live their coursework.
Complexity of Subject Matter
The “hardest majors in college” often involve abstract thinking, from differential equations in engineering to microscopic systems in biology. Dr. Janet Morrison, a college advisor with 20+ years of experience, notes:
“The cognitive load in STEM majors isn’t just about memorization—it’s about developing a whole new way of thinking.”
Career and Further Education Requirements
Many difficult majors also require graduate school, licensure exams, or additional certifications to enter competitive job markets, adding time and cost to your education investment.
Top 10 Hardest College Majors (Ranked)
Based on study time, conceptual difficulty, and professional demands, here are the toughest majors:
1. Biochemical Sciences
Heavy in both biology and chemistry, this major demands hours of lab work, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of molecular systems. It’s a common path for students aiming for med school or biotech careers.
Suggested Prep: AP Biology, AP Chemistry
Explore Health & Clinical Science Majors »
2. Botany
Don’t let the plant life fool you—botany majors dive deep into genetics, biochemistry, and ecology. Expect challenging labs and fieldwork. This major is a cornerstone for careers in environmental science and conservation.
Suggested Prep: AP Biology, AP Environmental Science
Explore STEM Careers »
3. Chemical Engineering
Rated consistently as one of the hardest majors ranked by workload and mathematical rigor, chemical engineering combines complex physics with multivariable calculus and process design.
Suggested Prep: AP Chemistry, AP Calculus BC, AP Physics
Explore Engineering Pathways »
4. Chemistry
Beyond balancing equations, chemistry majors must master thermodynamics, spectroscopy, and organic synthesis. Labs are demanding and often time-consuming.
Suggested Prep: AP Chemistry
Explore Science Careers »
5. Molecular Biology
Often paired with research, this major involves advanced genetics, microbiology, and lab experimentation. It’s essential for those considering biomedical research or medical school.
Suggested Prep: AP Biology
Explore Biomedical Careers »
6. Accounting
Surprised? While it’s not a science, accounting is deeply technical, involving financial laws, data systems, and quantitative reasoning. Licensure (like the CPA exam) adds another layer of rigor.
Suggested Prep: AP Statistics, AP Macroeconomics
Explore Business & Management Majors »
7. Genetics
Focused on DNA, evolution, and gene expression, genetics majors need strong lab skills and often take on research projects early. This major often leads to grad school in genetic counseling or genomics.
Suggested Prep: AP Biology
Explore Life Science Paths »
8. Miscellaneous Biology
Majors that span ecology, marine biology, and biomedical sciences can be just as intense as more specialized tracks. Heavy memorization plus practical lab work is the norm.
Suggested Prep: AP Biology, AP Environmental Science
Explore Science Majors »
9. Electrical Engineering
One of the most difficult majors for a reason. Expect circuit theory, digital signal processing, and high-level math. Projects are time-intensive and usually team-based.
Suggested Prep: AP Physics C, AP Calculus BC
Explore Engineering Majors »
10. Physics
Abstract and mathematical, physics involves both theoretical and experimental work. From quantum mechanics to classical mechanics, it’s one of the most intellectually challenging fields.
Suggested Prep: AP Physics C, AP Calculus BC
Explore Physics-Related Careers »
Implications of Choosing a Difficult Major
Skill Development
These majors sharpen skills that employers value: critical thinking, research, collaboration, and data analysis.
Earning Potential
According to PayScale, graduates from tougher majors like engineering or biochemical sciences often enjoy higher starting salaries than peers in less demanding majors (PayScale, 2024).
Return on Investment
While difficult majors require more effort, the long-term ROI can be significant, especially if the field has high job demand and salary potential.
Potential for Higher Attrition
Choosing a challenging major increases the chance of switching. According to Study International (2024), majors like engineering and chemistry see the highest dropout rates in year one.
Personal Fulfillment
Pursuing one of the hardest majors in college can be daunting, but passion often drives perseverance. Many students choose challenging paths because they find the material intellectually rewarding and deeply meaningful.
As one physics major shared:
“Physics is not just a subject, it's a way of thinking. It's tough, but incredibly rewarding.”
— Study International, 2024
When you genuinely care about a field—whether it’s decoding chemical pathways or solving complex engineering problems—long nights and tough exams can feel like stepping stones, not roadblocks.
Recommended Prep: AP Courses & Career Paths
Starting early with the right AP courses can build the foundation you’ll need for success in these demanding fields. Explore our free career path guides:
🔬 STEM Majors & Careers »
📊 Business Majors & Careers »
📚 Humanities Majors & Careers »
🩺 Health & Clinical Majors »
Ready to challenge yourself? Start early, prep smart, and pursue your passion—with confidence.
✅ Explore AP Tools and Career Guides at UWorld College Prep
FAQs
What makes a college major difficult?
Study hours, content complexity, lab work, and long-term career demands.
Which college major has the highest dropout rate?
Engineering and physical sciences majors tend to have the highest attrition rates in the first year.
What is the easiest major in college?
Liberal arts majors like education, communications, and general studies are often considered less rigorous.
References
Big Economics. (2023). The hardest and easiest college majors: Full list. Retrieved from https://bigeconomics.org/the-hardest-and-easiest-college-majors-full-list/
Study International. (2024). The most difficult majors in the US. Retrieved from https://studyinternational.com/news/most-difficult-majors-us/
PayScale. (2024). College salary report by major (2023-2024). Retrieved from https://www.payscale.com/college-salary-report
National Survey of Student Engagement. (2023). Time on task and engagement by major field. Indiana University Center for Postsecondary Research. Retrieved from https://nsse.indiana.edu
