Getting a high-value education and degree isn’t easy. From critical thinking skills, strong intellectual capabilities to extreme time management skills and resilience, they take a lot out of you. The intense coursework, rigorous exams and pressure to be able to find a job upon completion challenges can put a lot of emotional and physical demands on students.
However, if you push through the challenges, you can have a bright and deeply fulfilling career ahead. The top toughest courses in world have the potential to not just make you the big bucks but also make you a changemaker and pioneer in your chosen field.
Today, we look at the top toughest degrees in the world in 2026.
Key Highlights of the blog:
- Top 3 Toughest Fields in the World: Medicine, Engineering and Quantum Physics
- Top 3 Toughest Course in the World: Master of Surgery, Aerospace engineering, and Quantum Physics
- Degree with Highest Earning Potential: Medicine, Engineering, Architecture
Master of Surgery
Master of Surgery (MS) is a specialized postgraduate degree in the field of surgery. It focuses on developing advanced skills in performing surgical procedures, patient care, and medical decision-making. It’s the most demanding degree out there with its rigorous training in complex surgical techniques, extensive hands-on practice, and training for critical thinking required to deal with life-threatening conditions.
Why is ‘Master of Surgery’ One of the Toughest Degrees in the World?
- Complex And Rigorous Curriculum: The Masters of Surgery curriculum covers an extensive range of subjects, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, biochemistry, medical ethics, and clinical practice. This makes it one of the toughest degrees in the world.
- Qualifications Required To Get Admission: You need to have successfully completed MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) to qualify for this masters. You will also need to secure a high rank in the entrance test like NEET PG (India) or MCAT (USA) etc. Furthermore, you’ll have to complete an internship or surgical residency that can range from a period of 1 year to 5 years depending on the country of education.
- High-Stakes Exams and Licensing Requirement: The exams in MD Surgery degree have a low passing rate given their difficulty level. After completing the academic and residency training, surgeons must pass licensing exams to practice professionally. These certifications require not only academic excellence but also practical proficiency in performing surgeries, diagnosing conditions, and managing patient care.
- High job responsibility:
The Doctor of Medicine: Surgery degree puts high emotional and physical demands on students mainly because they deal or will be dealing with public health and well being.
Overview of Master of Surgery
The degree itself takes a duration of 3 years to complete and costs between ₹50,000 to ₹1Crore depending on government or private institutions.
Category | Master of Surgery (MS) |
Full Form | Master of Surgery (MS) |
Duration | 3 Years |
Average Salary (Global Estimate) | $200,000 to $350,000 per year |
Best Countries | United Kingdom, United States, Germany, Canada, Australia |
Top Universities | Harvard, Johns Hopkins, University of Oxford (U.S. and U.K.), University of Toronto, Karolinska Institutet (Sweden), University of Amsterdam |
Average Fee (Global Estimate) | $20,000 to $50,000 per year |
Admission Requirements | MBBS/MD, Internship or surgical residency, Good rank in Entrance Exam |
Hardest Specialization | Cardiothoracic Surgery, Neurosurgery |
- Tuition Fees as per the countries
Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace Engineering is one of the most coveted and toughest degrees in the world. These high-skilled engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles for defense sectors. They also work on more niche areas like propulsion systems, advanced materials, avionics, and guidance and control systems for both atmospheric and space-based vehicles.
Why is Aerospace Engineering One of the Toughest Degrees in the World?
- Rigorous Course Curriculum: Aerospace engineering combines multiple disciplines, including physics, mathematics, thermodynamics, materials science, and fluid dynamics. Students are required to learn and apply complex concepts from each of these fields, which makes the coursework demanding.
- Subject Complexity: The topics covered are highly specialized and require a deep understanding of both advanced mathematics and physics. For instance, aerodynamics involves the study of air flow and the forces acting on objects in motion. On the other hand, propulsion systems focus on the mechanics of engines used in aircraft and spacecraft.
- Intensive Projects and Lab Work: Students often work on intensive design projects, building prototypes or testing theoretical concepts in labs. The hands-on nature of the degree requires students to design and test actual aircraft and spacecraft components with cutting-edge technologies. Their projects aren’t mere theories, they have to face and solve real-world challenges, which means using both technical and creative skills.
- Long Hours and Mental Stamina: The pressure to perform in this degree is immense. You need to spend long hours preparing for gruelling and difficult to pass exams and bring impossible-seeming assignments to life. Students are often report feeling mentally exhausted.
- Real-World Responsibility: Unlike many other engineering fields, aerospace engineers are directly involved in developing systems that impact public safety. They deal with airplanes and space vehicles, hence practical skills are a must. Mistakes can have severe consequences. Adding an extra layer of pressure on students and professionals makes this one of the toughest subjects in the world.
Overview of Aerospace Engineering
Category | Aerospace Engineering |
Full Form | Aerospace Engineering |
Duration | Bachelor’s: 4 years, Master’s: 2 years |
Average Salary (Global Estimate) | Entry-level salary: $60,000 to $80,000. Top-level salary: $200,000 to $300,000 |
Best Countries | United States, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Canada |
Top Universities | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, University of Cambridge, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Georgia Institute of Technology, Princeton University |
Average Fee (Global Estimate) | Bachelor’s: $15,000 to $30,000. Masters: $10,000 to $70,000 |
Admission Requirements | Bachelor’s: High school diploma with a focus on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), a minimum aggregate score (around 50-60%). Masters: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Clearing entrance |
Hardest Specialization | Fluid Dynamics or Astrodynamics |
Quantum Physics
A degree in Quantum Physics goes deeper into the laws governing matter and energy. It studies electrons, atoms, photons, at the smallest level, in a way that goes beyond classical physics. It is one of the most challenging courses because students have to master abstract mathematical concepts, counter-intuitive physical principles, and do intense research-driven coursework.
Why is Quantum Physics One of the Toughest Degrees in the World?
- Mastering highly abstract theoretical concepts: Students have to master complex concepts such as wave–particle duality, electrodynamics, Atomic & Molecular Physics, Vector Calculus, Quantum Field Theory and more.
- Mathematically intensive coursework: Quantum mechanics relies on advanced mathematics. Hence, students have to master linear algebra, differential equations, and complex probability theory, making the academic load exceptionally demanding.
- Experimental work that requires precision: Laboratory research in quantum systems involves working with complicated and sensitive instrumentation. They have to do ultra-fine measurements, in controlled environments. There’s little room for error in these lab works.
- Rapidly evolving scientific landscape: The field of Quantum Physics is going through massive changes. There are new discoveries, forcing learners to adapt quickly, engage with research. Staying updated with these breakthroughs in computing, materials science, and particle physics isn’t an easy challenge along with pre-existing coursework, tests and lab work.
- Long road towards expertise: Mastery of Quantum Physics often requires postgraduate research, publications, and exposure to cutting-edge labs. A student has to go through these stages before entering specialised careers in academia, quantum computing, or advanced technology sectors.
- Risk element to job
Mistakes made by quantum physicists or engineers on the job can create massive security risks for nations, companies and even impact global cybersecurity issues. Given the high responsibility, it is one of the hardest degrees in the world.
Overview of Quantum Physics
Category | Details |
Full Form | Quantum Physics (also referred to as Quantum Mechanics or Quantum Theory) |
Duration | Around 3–5 years (Bachelor’s + Master’s), 5–7 years for PhD |
Career Prospects / Roles After Graduation | Quantum Physicist, Research Scientist, Quantum Engineer, Data Scientist, Quantum Computing Specialist, Researcher in Quantum Technology, AI Quantum Specialist, Cryptographer |
Average Salary After Graduation (Global Average) | $70,000 – $120,000 per year (varies by role and experience) |
Best Countries Offering the Degree | United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, Singapore |
Top Universities Offering the Degree | MIT (USA), Stanford University (USA), University of Cambridge (UK), Harvard University (USA), ETH Zurich (Switzerland), University of Oxford (UK), Caltech (USA), University of California, Berkeley (USA) |
Tuition Fees (Global Average) | $15,000 – $50,000 per year (varies by university and country) |
Admission Requirements | Strong background in physics, mathematics, and chemistry; high GPA; GRE scores (for some universities); letters of recommendation; research experience (for postgraduate programs) |
Most Popular / Hardest Specializations | Quantum Computing, Quantum Cryptography, Quantum Optics, Quantum Field Theory, Condensed Matter Physics, Quantum Materials, Quantum Information Theory |
Mathematics
A Mathematics course opens doors to finance, engineering, technology, data science and more worlds. It is considered one of the hardest degrees in the world because it requires high levels of analytical thinking, problem-solving, and deep comprehension of mathematical principles, often. Students have to go through years of rigorous coursework and research.
Why is Mathematics One of the Toughest Degrees in the World?
- Rigorous Course Curriculum: Mathematics programs are filled with advanced topics such as abstract algebra, calculus, differential equations, and topology, each requiring deep focus and critical thinking.
- High Complexity of Subject Matter: The abstract nature of mathematics demands students to master complex theories and theorems that don’t always have practical applications.
- Exams That Are Tough To Pass: Students face intensive problem-solving exercises that demand strong understanding of multiple mathematical concepts and also creativity. Students face extremely difficult and detailed questions in exams that have to be solved correctly in a limited time frame.
- Research and Independent Work: Mathematics often involves a significant amount of independent research. Students must create original theories and solve unsolved problems. This requires pure patience and perseverance.
- Time and Dedication: The combination of heavy coursework, research projects, and the need to stay updated on evolving mathematical theories makes it an extremely time-consuming degree.
Overview of Mathematics Degree
Category | Details |
Full Form | Mathematics (also referred to as Pure or Applied Mathematics, depending on the focus) |
Duration | 3–4 years for a Bachelor’s degree; 2–3 years for a Master’s degree; 3–5 years for a PhD |
Career Prospects / Roles After Graduation | Data Scientist, Financial Analyst, Statistician, Actuary, Research Mathematician, Software Engineer, Cryptographer, Operations Research Analyst |
Average Salary After Graduation (Global Average) | $60,000 – $100,000 per year (varies by role, experience, and specialization) |
Best Countries Offering the Degree | United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Australia, France, Switzerland |
Top Universities Offering the Degree | MIT (USA), University of Cambridge (UK), Harvard University (USA), Stanford University (USA), ETH Zurich (Switzerland), University of Oxford (UK), University of California, Berkeley (USA) |
Tuition Fees (Global Average) | $1,500 – $50,000 per year (varies by university and country) |
Admission Requirements | Strong background in mathematics and sciences, high GPA, entrance exams (e.g., SAT, GRE), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement |
Most Popular / Hardest Specializations | Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Computational Mathematics, Financial Mathematics, Mathematical Physics, Cryptography |
Architecture
Architecture is an intensive professional degree that equips students with skills to design buildings and spaces. It’s challenging because every design demands imagination and precision at the same time.
Why is Architecture One of the Toughest Degrees in the World?
- Extensive Practical Work And Projects: Architecture students routinely produce drawings, 3D models, and digital renderings under tight timelines. They often revise their work repeatedly to meet exacting academic standards.
- Multidisciplinary and Complex Concepts: The curriculum requires you to understand complex and intertwined concepts like structural engineering, environmental science, physics, maths, building technology, graphics design, history of architecture, and urban design, and more blending scientific and artistic disciplines.
- High-Stakes Evaluation By a Jury: Students have to routinely present their designs and concepts to panels that assess creativity, feasibility, and technical execution. This makes every semester a cycle of intense ideation, critique, and refinement.
- Projects Demand Creativity And Real-World Practicality: Every project demands an understanding of materials, spatial psychology, climate responsiveness, technical skills, safety norms, and user experience. Students need to have advanced conceptual clarity.
- The Journey Is Long, And Mastery Takes Time: Undergraduate architecture courses require students spans across five years of academic study, mandated internships, and licensing requirements before starting independent practice.
Overview of Architecture
Category | Details – Architecture Degree |
Full Form | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) / Master of Architecture (M.Arch) |
Duration | B.Arch: ~5 years; M.Arch: ~1.5–2 years |
Career Prospects / Roles | Architect, Urban Designer, Interior Designer, Landscape Architect, BIM Specialist, Architectural Visualizer, Project Architect |
Average Salary After Graduation (Worldwide Estimate) | Early-career architects typically earn $40,000–$60,000 per year. Salary increases with growth in experience |
Best Countries Offering the Degree | Countries with established design, construction, and innovation ecosystems in North America, Western Europe, along with parts of the Asia-Pacific region |
Top Universities | MIT, Harvard GSD, ETH Zurich, Delft University of Technology, and University College London (Bartlett) |
Tuition Fees (Worldwide Estimate) | Typically $10,000–$30,000 per year, with higher fees at elite private schools or specialized design institutes |
Admission Requirements | B.Arch: academic performance with emphasis on mathematics/physics, entrance tests, and a portfolio demonstrating creative capability. M.Arch: relevant bachelor’s degree, portfolio, and occasionally professional experience |
Most Popular / Hardest Specializations | Sustainable Architecture, Urban Design, Interior Architecture; technically intensive areas include Parametric Design, Structural/High-Rise Design, Heritage Conservation, and Advanced Computational Design |
CA
A Chartered Accountancy (CA) degree focuses on accounting, auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and business law. It opens doors to sectors like financial services, business and more. It’s one of the worlds toughest courses due to its extensive curriculum, rigorous exams, and the practical experience required.
Why is CA One of the Toughest Degrees in the World?
- Rigorous Course Curriculum: CA exams cover a wide range of subjects like accounting, taxation, corporate law, financial management, and auditing, which demand not only theoretical knowledge but practical application in real-world scenarios.
- High Failure Rates: The pass rates for CA exams are relatively low, often making it feel like an uphill battle for many students. This makes it one of the hardest courses.
- Long Duration and Multiple Levels: The CA qualification typically requires students to go through multiple stages of exams, including intermediate and final levels, along with practical training (articleship) over a span of 3–5 years.
- Practical Experience (Articleship): In addition to exams, CA students have to complete 3 years of practical training in the form of articleship, where they apply theoretical knowledge in real-world business environments under high pressure.
- Intensive Study Hours: The vast syllabus and the high level of proficiency needed means CA students often spend long hours preparing for exams.
Overview of CA Degree
Category | Details |
Full Form | Chartered Accountancy (CA) |
Duration | 3–5 years (includes exams, practical training, and articleship) |
Career Prospects / Roles After Graduation | Chartered Accountant, Tax Consultant, Audit Manager, Forensic Accountant, Finance Manager, CFO, Financial Analyst |
Average Salary After Graduation (Global Average) | $30,000 – $100,000 per year (varies by role, experience, and specialization) |
Best Countries Offering the Degree | United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, United Arab Emirates |
Top Universities Offering the Degree | University of Oxford (UK), University of Sydney (Australia), University of Melbourne (Australia), University of Toronto (Canada), ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) |
Tuition Fees (Global Average) | $10,000 – $25,000 per year (varies by university and country) |
Admission Requirements | High school diploma with strong academic performance, specific entrance exams (e.g., CPT in India), letters of recommendation, and personal statement |
Most Popular / Hardest Specializations | Auditing, Taxation, Management Accounting, Financial Reporting, Forensic Accounting, International Accounting |
How GS Global Can Help You Find the Right Degree for You
Mathematics degree, technical courses like computer science or any other field, choosing the right degree can be a daunting decision. Your future hinges on it. At GS Global Academy, we understand that each student’s journey is unique, and we are here to guide you through the process.
With our diverse list of services from career counselling, study abroad consulting, psychometric aptitude tests, GRE/GMAT/SAT/IELTS/TOEFL preparation, personality development and more services, we help you navigate your academic and professional goals with ease.
Whether its engineering courses or the hardest degree in the world you are aiming for, our experienced consultants provide personalized guidance, for every type of aspirant.
Ready to take a giant leap towards your future? Book a counselling session with us today!
Which is the Toughest Degree in India?
Medicine, Engineering and CA degrees are considered to be toughest in India.
Which is the toughest course in the world?
Courses in Medicine like Masters in Surgery are considered to be the toughest in the world.
Which course has the lowest pass rate?
Medical courses like Masters of Surgery have the lowest pass rate due to complex study material and practical exams as well as gruelling schedules.
Which university is the toughest to get into in the world?
California Institute of Technology (CalTech) is considered toughest to get into in the world with a 2.27% acceptance rate.
Which is the toughest subject in the world
Medicine is considered the toughest subject to master in the world.