Top 20 Hardest Degrees in the UK

After completing A-levels or the International Baccalaureate, as academic milestones before attending university, many students are faced with the decision of which career path to take and degree to pursue. Universities offer many areas of study that are new to students, involve a high level of complexity and require a significant commitment to be completed successfully. Some of the hardest degrees offered by UK universities require grit, determination, and countless hours in the library.

Understanding the challenges of different degrees can help you make an informed decision about your academic and career goals. That being said, it is important to note that difficulty is subjective to each student and how challenging a degree is will be one of many factors you take into consideration before making your final degree selection.

In this article, we discuss the most challenging degrees and which factors make each degree hard, such as the complexity of the subject matter, the level of competition, and the rigour of assessments. The degrees are ranked from easiest to hardest and include detail of what kind of thinking and application is required from students. Reading this article will provide you with a well-rounded overview of each degree, how their complexity ranks amongst others and help guide your decision on which one may be best suited to you.

The Hardest Degrees You Can Choose in the UK

When it comes to time investment and the number of modules, there are a few degrees that stand out as being some of the hardest - medicine, architecture, engineering, and law, to name a few. These degrees are notorious for their long hours and demanding coursework, but they're not the only ones that require a significant amount of effort.

Some degrees are hard simply because of the complexity of the content that students have to cover. For example, degrees in mathematics, physics, and computer science are known for their rigorous theoretical work and challenging problem-solving. Other degrees, such as those in the arts and humanities, may require extensive research and critical analysis that can be equally demanding.

However, it's not just the subject matter that determines the difficulty of a degree. Some degrees are statistically harder to get a first-class grade in than others. This is due to factors such as the level of competition and academic expectations of the institution. For example, degrees that include subjects like law, economics, and mathematics are often highly competitive and require exceptional academic performance to achieve top marks.

Furthermore, the university you attend can also have an impact on the difficulty of your degree. For example, recent data indicates that the percentage of first-class degrees awarded at UK universities, particularly at top institutions like Imperial College London, has seen fluctuations that is around 38.2% for Imperial College London in 2024, which means that students who attend these universities may have an advantage in achieving top grades compared to students at other institutions.

Percentage of graduates awarded a first at UK universities

The Impact of AI and Emerging Fields on Degree Difficulty

With the rapid advancements in AI and emerging fields like quantum computing, certain degrees have become even more complex. For example, Computer Science now includes specialized AI and machine learning modules that require deep technical knowledge. Similarly, degrees in Neuroscience now intersect with data science, making them more interdisciplinary and demanding than before.

In this article, we'll be looking at the top 20 hardest degrees in the UK. Whether you're interested in pursuing a challenging degree for personal growth or to boost your career prospects, this list will help you make an informed decision about which degree is best suited to you. We've compiled a list of the top 20 hardest degrees based on statistics and expert opinions. We surveyed 200 teachers and university lecturers, asking them which degrees they considered to be the most difficult.

Shown above is the results of our survey, and we see that the results are dominated by scientific subjects. Let's now delve into each degree course in detail, providing an overview and exploring the factors that make them so challenging.

20 - Philosophy

Philosophy is one of the most popular majors for degrees in the Humanities in the UK. It is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and human nature. It demands that students engage in critical thinking, logical reasoning, and the exploration of various perspectives on a wide range of topics. Philosophy pushes students to question their beliefs and assumptions, leading to deep reflection and analysis. If you are the type of student who enjoys questioning the status quo and being challenged intellectually, Philosophy, although difficult, may be a great university degree for you.

Philosophical concepts can be abstract and difficult to grasp, demanding immense mental focus and persistence. Studying philosophy also requires exceptional writing skills, as students must effectively communicate complex ideas and construct persuasive arguments. To navigate these complexities, engaging with a Philosophy tutor and an English tutor can provide tailored guidance, helping students to refine their critical thinking and argumentation skills. The challenge that this degree presents is well worth it as the skills that philosophical thinking and writing require students to develop can be used to drive success in other subjects or majors.

After completing this degree, there is a broad range of options for employment and you will not only be limited to a career in academia. In 2013, 91% of Philosophy graduates were in work or further study six months after graduation.

19 - Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineers are the ones who craft and design the world around us. As a segree, Mechanical engineering focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Students must master a wide range of topics, including material science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and control systems. The challenging nature of mechanical engineering stems from the sheer breadth and depth of these subjects, as well as their practical application. The complexity of these topics often necessitates the support of a Physics tutor to strengthen foundational concepts critical to mechanical engineering, especially in areas like thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.

In addition to grasping theoretical concepts, mechanical engineering students must also develop strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in teams. Practical lab work and design projects require students to apply their knowledge to real-world situations. According to the Complete University Guide, mechanical engineering students face an average dropout rate of 7.8%, highlighting just how hard students find this degree to complete.

18 - Political Science

Political Science examines the systems, processes, and behaviours involved in governance and power structures. It encompasses topics such as political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. As a Political Science student, you need to stay informed about current events and be able to critically analyse complex political situations.

Expert Politics tutors suggest that the difficulty of Political Science arises from the need to understand the nuances of political ideologies, the intricacies of government institutions, and the impact of policies on societies. Students must also develop strong research, writing, and debating skills to excel in this field. The broad skillset developed through the course of this degree is what makes it a sought-after qualification and what has earned it a spot on this list of the most challenging degrees.

17 - Linguistics

Linguistics is the scientific study of language. It explores its structure, use, acquisition, and evolution. Students in this field learn about phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, as well as sociolinguistics and psycholinguistics. Linguistics demands a high level of analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to identify patterns and structures in languages.

The complexity of linguistic theories, the sheer diversity of human languages, and the interdisciplinary nature of the subject make Linguistics a challenging degree. Students must also be proficient in at least one language other than their native tongue, often requiring intensive language learning. The combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and the extensive scope of the subject solidify its spot on this list.

16 - Biochemistry

Biochemistry explores the chemical processes and substances occurring within living organisms, bridging the gap between biology and chemistry. Students delve into topics such as molecular biology, enzymology, metabolic pathways, and gene regulation. Biochemistry demands a deep understanding of complex chemical reactions and molecular structures, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge to solve biological problems. Due to the complexity of Biochemistry, students often turn to Biology tutors and Chemistry tutors for a better understanding of the subject's foundational and advanced concepts.

The difficulty of a Biochemistry degree lies in the vast amount of information that students must learn and retain, as well as the intricate laboratory techniques they must master. Additionally, biochemistry students must have strong mathematical and analytical skills to decipher complex data. This advanced knowledge and application makes Biochemistry a degree that is not suited to everyone.

In 2024, 97.2 thousand people were employed as biological scientists and biochemists compared with 91.8 thousand in 2010 in the UK. Although a particularly hard degree to complete, Biochemistry opens up careers in industries such as agriculture, food, and the healthcare sector, making it a worthwhile academic investment.

15 - Dentistry

Dentistry focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of conditions affecting the oral cavity and surrounding structures. Dental students study subjects such as oral anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and radiology. They also develop clinical skills through hands-on training in simulation clinics and, eventually, treating real patients.

Dentistry, much like other medical degrees, requires the ability to master both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while also maintaining the ability to communicate effectively with patients. Dental students must develop fine motor skills and dexterity for delicate procedures, as well as the ability to make critical decisions under pressure. In 2021, the University of Manchester only offered 48% of the students who applied for Dentistry, a spot in the classroom, making Dentistry not only a hard degree to complete but also a hard one to get accepted to study.

14 - Economics

Economics is the study of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. It covers topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and international trade. Economics students must develop strong analytical and quantitative skills, as well as a deep understanding of economic theories and models. Economics tutors conclude that economics can open many doors when it comes to careers and is often coupled with Politics and Philosophy as minor accompanying subjects.

If you are a student who is curious about the world around you and who wants to better understand people, businesses, economies, and governments, this may be a degree that really appeals to you. The challenge of an Economics degree lies in the complexity of the subject matter, which often involves abstract concepts and mathematical models. You'll need to stay informed about current economic events and be able to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

13 - Modern Languages

Modern Languages degrees involve the study of one or more foreign languages, as well as the literature, culture, and history of the associated countries. Students must become proficient in their chosen languages, often reaching near-native fluency by the end of their degree. This requires intensive language learning, as well as regular practice and immersion experiences.

Students certainly need to have an inherent love for languages to thrive when taking on this degree. The difficulty of a Modern Languages degree stems from the immense effort required to achieve fluency in a foreign language, as well as the need to engage with complex literary and cultural topics. Students often spend a year abroad, which can be both challenging and rewarding. If you find yourself excelling in languages or consider yourself a languaphile, the challenging nature of this degree may be less of a factor in your selection of a degree.

12 - PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics)

PPE is an interdisciplinary degree that combines Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, offering students a comprehensive understanding of these three interconnected fields. Students tackle a wide range of topics, from moral and political philosophy to economic theories and public policy analysis. Famously, a number of UK Prime Ministers studied PPE at Oxford University.

A PPE degree requires students to master three distinct disciplines, each with its own unique set of concepts, theories, and methodologies. Students must be able to critically analyse and evaluate complex issues from multiple perspectives while developing strong writing, debating, and analytical skills. The Higher Education Statistics Agency reports a dropout rate of 7.1% for PPE students, reflecting the demanding nature of this degree.

11 - Law

Once students have achieved a place to study Law at university, often after hiring an LNAT tutor. they face this notoriously challenging degree and is considered the most difficult degree to get a first class result in. It involves the study of legal systems, principles, and regulations that govern society. Law students learn about various areas of law, such as criminal, contract, tort, property, and constitutional law, as well as legal research, analysis, and advocacy skills. They must develop a deep understanding of legal concepts and be able to apply them to real-world situations.

Law degrees are challenging due to the sheer volume of information that students must learn and retain, as well as the need to think critically and analytically about complex legal issues. Law students must also develop strong writing and communication skills to effectively convey their arguments in essays, exams, and moot court competitions. Law, as a profession, also requires lengthy practical work after the degree itself has been completed.

10 - Architecture

Architecture focuses on the design, planning, and construction of buildings and spaces. Students in this field study topics such as architectural history, theory, technology, and urban planning. They must develop strong design skills, spatial awareness, and an understanding of structural and environmental factors that influence architecture.

UK based architects are known for being pioneers in the global field and for their experimental and futuristic techniques. As professionals, architects are in demand and completing this degree can also open up doors to building surveying, building management, and historic building inspection.

Architects, during study and once qualified, need to balance creative design with technical knowledge and practical constraints, a unique combination that makes this degree particularly challenging. Architecture students must devote long hours to studio work, develop strong drawing and modelling skills, and master various computer-aided design (CAD) software.

9 - Physics

Physics is the study of the fundamental laws and principles that govern the natural world, encompassing topics such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and relativity. Physics students must develop strong mathematical and problem-solving skills, as well as a deep understanding of abstract concepts and models. This degree opens up many doors in terms of professions including academic research, astronomy, geophysics, and meteorology.

The challenge of a Physics degree arises from the complexity of the subject matter, which often involves advanced mathematics and sophisticated theoretical frameworks. Students must also conduct experiments and interpret complex data to test their understanding of physical phenomena.

The challenge that this degree presents is a worthwhile undertaking as this qualification is in high demand. In 2019, the University of Bath reported that 83% of its graduates had found highly skilled employment following their graduation.

8 - Chemistry

Chemistry is renowned as possibly the most challenging subject of the scientific areas, evidenced by over 30% of IBDP students choosing to get the help of an IB Chemistry tutor or A-Level Chemistry tutor. It is the study of the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. Students in this field explore topics such as organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, as well as chemical thermodynamics and kinetics. They must develop a deep understanding of complex chemical concepts and master various laboratory techniques.

The difficulty of a Chemistry degree lies in the vast amount of information that students must learn and retain, as well as the need to think critically and analytically about chemical processes. Chemistry students must have strong mathematical and problem-solving skills to decipher complex data and understand the underlying principles of chemical reactions.

It is important to note that studying Chemistry is that much more powerful when paired with complimentary sciences like Biology and Physics which share some core principles. The great outcome of completing a chemistry degree is that it will equip you will skills that can be transferred to other fields of study, making your search for employment that much easier.

7 - Computer Science

Computer Science focuses on the theory, design, development, and application of computer systems and software. Students in this field study topics such as programming languages, algorithms, data structures, artificial intelligence, and computer architecture. They must develop strong problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and the ability to work with abstract concepts.

As the world continues to embrace technology and products of computer science, this is a qualification that is highly sought after. Similarly, it has become a very popular degree amongst students. The professional body of IT recorded a 13% increase in degree applications in Computer Science in 2022. In 2024, Computer Science degree applications have surged by an additional 8%, showing a continued upward trend due to the growing demand for tech professionals.

Computer Science students need to master various programming languages, understand complex algorithms, and keep up with rapidly evolving technology. They must also be able to apply their knowledge to real-world situations, often working on group projects or individual coding assignments. While this degree certainly earns its spot as one of the hardest, it provides students with a very current skillset in terms of the way the world embraces technology.

6 - Neuroscience

"Your brain's storage capacity is considered to be virtually unlimited" - this is an example of just some of the fascinating facts you would grapple with as a Neuroscience student. Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system, encompassing topics such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neurochemistry, and cognitive neuroscience. It requires a deep understanding of the complex biological, chemical, and electrical processes that underlie the function of the brain and nervous system.

Students need to master a vast array of interdisciplinary concepts and techniques, ranging from molecular biology and genetics to psychology and computer modelling. Neuroscience students must also complete lab work and master advanced experimental techniques and data analysis skills.

As a potential Neuroscience student, you would be best prepared to take on this challenging degree by having a strong foundation of Maths, Chemistry and Physics in A-levels.

5 - Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace Engineering is undoubtedly one of the most impressive sounding degrees out there. This degree focuses on the design, development, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. Students focus on topics such as aerodynamics, propulsion, materials science, structural analysis, and control systems. They must develop strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills to excel in this discipline.

The challenge of an Aerospace Engineering degree lies in the need to understand and apply complex engineering principles, often involving advanced mathematics and physics. Students must also master various computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software to develop and test their designs. Interestingly, aerospace engineering only evolved as a subject in 1950s and includes a very broad range of elements. You can read more interesting facts about this degree here.

4 - Medicine

Medicine is the study of the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders in humans. Medical students learn about topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and medical ethics, as well as develop clinical skills through hands-on training in hospitals and other healthcare settings.

Admissions to study medicine is highly competitive, which is why many students choose to hire a BMAT tutor or UCAT tutor to help them with their applications. This degree has a vast amount of information students must learn and retain. They need to develop strong clinical skills and have the ability to make critical decisions under pressure. The emotional demands of working with patients and the long study duration also contribute to the challenge.

Medicine is known for being a particularly difficult degree to get into with one of the longest lists of requirements. One of the great things about medicine, should you be accepted to the degree, is that you will be able to use and apply what you learn during your degree for the rest of your life. You also have the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of patients every single day once you qualify as a doctor - making the challenge and long hours of this degree well worth it.

3 - Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering is considered to be one of the most difficult branches of engineering and so its place in the top three of this list is well deserved. This degree focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of electrical systems and components, such as power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, as well as electronic devices and circuits. Students in this field study topics such as electromagnetism, circuit theory, control systems, and power electronics, requiring strong mathematical and analytical skills.

Electrical Engineering degrees requires students to understand and apply complex engineering principles, often involving advanced mathematics and physics. As with Architecture and Aerospace Engineering degrees, students must also master various computer-aided design (CAD) and simulation software to develop and test their designs.

What draws many students to this particularly hard degree is the opportunity to change the world as an innovator as you will be at the forefront of technological change. Electrical Engineers are also considerably well paid which makes the time and effort investment into this degree worthwhile.

2 - Mathematics

Mathematics - many students need little introduction to this extremely challenging subject whose complexity may already haunt them from their school years. Although a hard degree to pursue, the UK has the second highest number of leading mathematical scientists.

This degree requires that students study abstract concepts, structures, and relationships, encompassing topics such as algebra, calculus, number theory, geometry, and statistics. Maths students must develop strong logical thinking, problem-solving, and abstract reasoning skills to tackle complex mathematical problems and proofs.

Maths students master advanced mathematical concepts and techniques, often involving rigorous proof-based coursework and abstract thinking. Students must also learn to apply their mathematical knowledge to real-world problems and develop strong communication skills to convey their findings effectively. If you are passionate about problem-solving and have a knack for numbers, this degree may make your shortlist.

Degrees in mathematics, known for their rigorous theoretical work, often require the support of an A-Level Maths tutor, IB Tutor in UK or an online Maths tutor to navigate through challenging problem-solving exercises.

1- Veterinary Medicine

For animal lovers and those wanting to pursue the hardest degree in the UK, Veterinary Medicine is the study of the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders in animals. Students learn about animal anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and surgery, as well as develop clinical skills through hands-on training in various animal healthcare environments.

What makes this degree particularly hard is the need to master a vast amount of information across a range of species, as well as the need to develop strong clinical skills. Vets must have the ability to make critical decisions under pressure. The emotional demands of working with animals and their owners, and the long study duration, also contribute to the challenge. Recent curriculum changes in 2024 have introduced even more practical training requirements, making the degree more demanding. Additionally, new EU regulations now require veterinary students to complete an additional certification to practice in certain countries, further adding to the degree's complexity.

The exceptional challenge that this degree presents comes with rewards. This degree opens up qualified vets to work in clinical practice, government, the private sector, and research. There is also the option of selecting between working with wild or exotic animals and taking your skillset overseas. The UK also offers many great opportunities for both veterinary science students and qualified vets.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a degree can be a daunting task, especially if you have dreams of pursuing a unique or technical degree that requires a multifaceted skillset. Whether you're considering a degree in medicine, law, engineering, or the humanities, it's important to know what you're getting into before you make a commitment. This list is designed to help you make an informed decision about which degree is right for you.

While these degrees may be challenging and require the help of an online tutor, they are also incredibly rewarding. Pursuing a degree that tests your limits can help you develop important skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience that will serve you well in your future career. It can also be a source of personal growth and satisfaction as you push yourself to achieve your academic goals.

It's important to remember that the difficulty of a degree is not the only factor to consider when choosing a path. You should also take into account your interests, career goals, and the academic environment you thrive in. A degree that is challenging for one person may not be as difficult for another, so it's also important to find a degree that aligns with your individual strengths and passions.

In the end, the most important thing is to choose a degree that you're passionate about and that challenges you in a way that's rewarding and fulfilling. Whether you choose one of the degrees on this list or something else entirely, we wish you the best of luck in your academic journey.