Top 10 Hardest Engineering Majors Ranked By Difficulty

Engineering is a challenging and rewarding field that requires strong analytical, mathematical, and technical skills. However, not all engineering majors are created equal. Some majors are known for their difficulty, rigorous coursework, and demanding curriculum, making them among the toughest programs to complete. From aerospace and chemical engineering to biomedical and computer science, each field presents its unique set of challenges and obstacles. In this article, we will explore the hardest engineering majors and the reasons why they are considered the most challenging programs in the world of engineering.

Why You Should Choose the Hardest Engineering Majors

Engineering courses are time-consuming to study for, yet they are worthwhile for the following reasons:

Studying engineering brings respect

People instinctively respect engineers wherever they are located since they are aware that engineering degrees take a lot of work to obtain.

Develop new skills

You will learn many skills as you study any engineering course, including critical thinking, abstract thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making.

Earn high salary

A ticket to well-paying jobs is engineering study. Numerous ranking blogs list engineering as one of the most sought-after and lucrative career paths.

Variety of career opportunities

Engineering is a fairly diverse field that may train you for a variety of jobs. For instance, you can get employment in all industries, including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, mining, etc., with a degree in industrial engineering.

Opportunity to make great impacts on the World

Study engineering if you’ve always wished you could change the world. From building roads to producing automobiles, airplanes, and other items, engineers have a significant impact on the world.

Top 10 Hardest Engineering Majors Ranked by Difficulty

• Electrical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering
• Robotics Engineering
• Quantum Engineering
• Nanotechnology Engineering or Nanoengineering
• Mechatronics Engineering

#1. Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering is considered the hardest engineering major because the discipline is loaded with a lot of calculations and necessitates a lot of abstract thinking.

In electrical engineering, many of the operations take place invisibly. Electric fields, wireless transmissions, currents, and magnetic fields are all invisible to electrical engineers.

A solid foundation in physics and mathematics is required to pursue electrical engineering. Within four to five years, one can earn a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.

You can pursue the following occupations after earning a degree in electrical engineering:

• Electrical Technician
• Electrician
• Test Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Control Engineer
• Aerospace Engineer

The top universities for electrical engineering programs are as follows:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
• Stanford University, USA
• The University of California, Berkeley, USA
• ETH Zurich, Switzerland
• University of Cambridge, UK

#2. Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering ranks among the most difficult engineering majors in recent times. This branch of engineering focuses on using science to transform raw materials into useful products, such as food and drink, medicines, fertilizers, energy, and fuel.

The combination of physics, chemistry, and mathematics in this engineering field makes it unquestionably difficult. Even by themselves, these topics are tough.

Within three to five years, a student can earn a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. Math, chemistry, and physics expertise are essential for chemical engineering.

After earning a degree in chemical engineering, you can pursue the following careers:

• Petroleum Engineer
• Chemical Engineer
• Energy Engineer
• Food Scientist
• Biotechnologist

The top universities offering chemical engineering majors are as follows:

• Stanford University, USA
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
• University of Cambridge, UK
• Imperial College London, UK
• University of Waterloo, Canada

#3. Computer Engineering

For the purpose of designing and creating computer hardware and software, this discipline of engineering combines computer science with electrical engineering.

Because it shares several courses with electrical engineering, computer engineering is regarded as being challenging. You will also find computer engineering challenging if you find electrical engineering challenging.

Additionally, students who do not enjoy programming and coding may find computer engineering difficult.

Within four to five years, one can earn a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering. A foundation in computer science, arithmetic, and physics is required for computer engineering. It might also be advantageous to know how to code or program.

After receiving a degree in computer engineering, you can pursue the following careers:

• Computer Engineer
• Programmer
• System Engineer
• Network Engineer

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#4. Aerospace Engineering

The design, development, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and other related machinery are the focus of the technical field known as aerospace engineering. Engineering in aerospace and engineering in space are its two main subfields.

Because it demands a lot of math and physics, as well as strong analytical abilities and technical knowledge, aerospace engineering is regarded as challenging. For kids who dislike math, this subject will be challenging.

Aerospace engineering will be simpler for you if you have experience in mechanical engineering. We advise obtaining a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree with a focus on aerospace engineering before continuing on to graduate-level aerospace engineering study.

It takes 3 to 5 years to earn a degree in aerospace engineering. Differential equations, fluid mechanics, mathematics, electrical circuits, thermodynamics, and aircraft aerodynamics are among the topics that may be covered in the course material.

With a degree in aerospace engineering, you could pursue the following careers:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Aircraft Engineering
• Aerospace Technician
• Aircraft Mechanic

The top universities for aerospace engineering majors are listed below:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
• California Institute of Technology, USA
• University of Cambridge, USA
• National University of Defense Technology, China
• Cranfield University, UK

You may also check out Mechanical Engineering Vs Aerospace Engineering

#5. Biomedical Engineering

With the goal of enhancing human health and providing healthcare, the interdisciplinary major of biomedical engineering merges engineering with biology and medicine.

Biomedical engineering is considered the hardest engineering course because the field is broad and there is so much to learn. Students of biomedical engineering study courses in a variety of subject areas, including biology, medicine, and engineering.

More difficult than studying is being a biomedical engineer. The creation of artificial organs to advance human health is the responsibility of biomedical engineers. Within four to five years, one can earn a degree in biomedical engineering.

Following completion of your biomedical engineering degree, you can pursue the following careers:

• Bioengineer
• Biomedical Engineer
• Clinical Engineer
• Genetic Engineer
• Rehabilitation Engineer
• Physician/Doctor

 The top universities for biomedical engineering programs are as follows:

• John Hopkins University, USA
• Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
• Imperial College London, UK
• University of Toronto, Canada
• National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore

#6. Nuclear Engineering

Nuclear Engineering is one of the hardest engineering majors focusing on the science and use of nuclear and radiation processes is known as nuclear engineering.

For students who struggle with physics, this engineering subject will be challenging. Numerous computations are necessary. To pursue nuclear engineering, one must have a solid foundation in both mathematics and physics.

The following topics are covered in nuclear engineering coursework: materials science, radiation detection and measurement, thermal hydraulics, plasma physics, reactor physics, heat transfer and fluid mechanics, and reactor engineering.

Nuclear engineers can work with the military to build weapons, with the medical field to use radiation to detect and treat diseases, and with the energy sector to supervise the building, upkeep, and operation of power plants.

Nuclear engineering degrees can be earned at the bachelor’s and master’s levels in 4 and 5 years, respectively.

The top universities for nuclear engineering programs are as follows:

• Reactor Engineer
• Radiation Engineer
• Atomic Process Engineer
• Nuclear System Engineer

#7. Robotics Engineering

Engineering that deals with the creation, maintenance, and use of robots—machines that imitate human behavior—is known as robotics engineering.

It’s difficult to study and practice this technical specialty. It takes a lot of work to build a robot. It necessitates a thorough understanding of arithmetic, electronics, mechanics, programming, and computer science.

The following topics are frequently covered in robotics engineering courses: pneumatics and hydraulics, computer programming, designing for robotics, artificial intelligence, mechatronics, electrical systems, and machine kinematics.

An engineering degree in robotics can be earned in three to five years.

You can pursue the following occupations with a degree in robotics engineering:

• CAD Designer
• Automation Engineer
• Robotics Engineer
• Mechatronics Technician

The best programs for robotics engineering are provided by the following universities:

• Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
• University of Toronto, Canada
• Imperial College London, UK
• University of Oxford, UK

#8. Quantum Engineering

For the purpose of resolving current issues, quantum engineering blends engineering knowledge with fundamental physics.

Due to the quantum physics involved, this engineering field is regarded as challenging. One of physics’ most difficult topics is quantum mechanics. Quantum physics is a highly difficult topic, even in secondary school.

Students who don’t appreciate math and physics will have trouble with quantum engineering. Analytical and critical thinking are also necessary.

There aren’t many undergraduate programs in quantum engineering. A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or physics is required to become a quantum engineer. You can then pursue graduate and postgraduate studies in the field. Four to five years are needed to earn a degree in quantum engineering.

The best programs in quantum engineering are provided by the following universities:

• University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia
• ETH Zurich, Switzerland
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA
• University of Bristol, UK

#9. Nanotechnology Engineering or Nanoengineering

Nanotechnology Engineering is also considered one of the hardest engineering courses.

The area of engineering known as nanoengineering is concerned with the investigation, creation, and improvement of materials at the nanoscale (1 nm = 1 x 10^-9m). Nanoengineering can be defined as the study of engineering at the nanoscale.

Because it combines a wide range of disciplines, including materials science, mechanics, electronics, biology, physics, medicine, and more, nanotechnology engineering is regarded as being challenging to study.

Nano Engineers can work in a variety of fields, such as:

• Aerospace
• Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
• Environmental and Energy
• Agricultural
• Robotics
• Automotive

The top universities for nanoengineering programs are listed below.

• The University of California, San Diego, USA
• Rice University, USA
• The University of Toronto, Canada
• University of Waterloo, Canada

#10. Mechatronics Engineering

In order to work with smart technologies like robots, automated guided systems, and computer-integrated manufacturing equipment, this engineering course focuses on a combination of mechanical, computer, and electrical systems.

Electronic materials, electromagnetic fields, computer programming, measurements, analytical software, digital system design, electronic circuit design, applied mechanics, and industrial robotics are just a few of the topics covered in mechatronics engineering courses.

Because it combines several different disciplines—such as mechanics, electronics, robotics, and other areas—Mechatronics Engineering is more challenging than other engineering programs.

Mechatronics engineering degrees can be earned in four years. It necessitates a solid foundation in computer science, electronics, and mechanical engineering.

Following completion of your mechatronics engineering degree, you can pursue the following careers:

• Control System Engineer
• Software Engineer
• Mechatronics Engineer
• Automation Engineer
• Robotics Engineer/Technician
• Data Scientist

The top universities for mechatronics engineering programs are listed below: 

• University of Waterloo, Canada
• Ontario Tech University, Canada
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
• Technical University of Munich, Germany
• University of Manchester, UK

You may also check out Best Laptop For Mechanical Engineering Students

Hardest Engineering Degree UK

a. Electrical Engineering

Most people concur that electrical engineering is undoubtedly one of the hardest engineering courses. Electricity is not something people naturally comprehend, and electrical engineers work with many abstract notions.

Advanced math and physics courses in this major will prepare you. To succeed in the field, you’ll also need creative thinking.

The degree of abstraction in electrical engineering is what makes it difficult. You can’t simply picture what will happen with your inputs because you can’t really see electricity. You cannot see radio signals, magnetic fields, or how they interact with one another. Besides, You cannot see how electricity moves through cables.

You must first acquire a theoretical understanding of these concepts before applying them to your work.

You can choose to go even further and focus on a branch of electrical engineerings, such as radio-frequency engineering.

Electrical engineering is a complicated subject, and earning a degree will need a lot of effort and study. However, if you’re interested in the subject, it’s worthwhile. Because electricity is now the primary source of energy in the globe, demand for electrical engineers is expected to increase.

b. Computer Engineering

Electrical engineering and computer engineering are similar, but the former focuses on creating computer hardware and software and making sure they work together properly.

The work of a computer engineer is not limited to personal computers. Working on intriguing tasks like designing motherboards, CPUs, or computer circuitry may be your job. You might even work with supercomputers, though.

However, a computer engineer can do much more than only work with hardware. For computers and other devices, you also develop software and firmware. You ensure your creations function as intended.

This major is challenging since it calls for strong math skills as well as an aptitude for computer and electrical component repair.

c. Aerospace Engineering

Making things that fly is their area of expertise as aerospace engineers. or that nonetheless tries to fly. The most sophisticated ones focus on developing space-related products.

Why is aerospace engineering one of the top 10 hardest engineering courses? the enormous quantity of knowledge necessary for you to do your job. This statement is true for all of the majors on this list. There is a lot to learn, and most of it is too sophisticated and esoteric for our brains to process.

You will learn a lot about how fluids interact with various materials if you become an aircraft engineer. Aerodynamics is all about achieving that.

d. Chemical Engineering

Due to the fact that it combines the most advanced engineering knowledge with chemistry, chemical engineering may be the hardest engineering course on this list.

A broad subject is a chemistry. If you want to work on creating new medicines, you should concentrate on the pharmaceutical industry.

Or perhaps your goal is to increase packaging quality and boost sustainability. If so, you can choose to focus on plastic and other types of materials.

Perhaps you enjoy eating. Chemical engineers will play a bigger role in the food business as products like veggie burgers gain popularity. Additionally, they conduct research on and produce insecticides that maintain the health of plants.

Chemical engineers have a significant influence on our daily lives, and their importance will only increase over time.

The combination of abstraction and theoretical knowledge needed to do your work is what makes chemical engineering challenges. You are interacting with the very foundation of life. You must have a firm understanding of the arithmetic, physics, and chemistry concepts that are typically found in engineering.

e. Biomedical Engineering

Engineers who also practice medicine are known as biomedical engineers. They have a focus on biology and how to develop treatments for patients.

The strange devices you see in hospitals that help save so many lives were created by a biomedical engineer. You can probably imagine how difficult it is to make that stuff.

However, biomedical engineers also create prosthetic organs and limbs. They are vitally significant since they greatly enhance and preserve lives.

Being forced to combine intricate math with biology makes biomedical engineering challenging. Additionally, you are producing something that appears to contradict natural rules. You must understand how the human body functions and what occurs when it does not. Then, you must create mechanisms to restore normal operation.

Because you are interacting with people directly, it is considerably harder. As a chemical engineer, making mistakes is not a huge deal (unless you blow up your lab, but that’s another story). However, as a biomedical engineer creating an artificial organ, you cannot make mistakes.

The reason biomedical engineering is one of the hardest engineering courses is that you are learning so many different topics at once, much like chemical engineering. It is less concentrated than, for example, a degree in electrical engineering. Given that you must attend lessons in a wide range of engineering subjects, you’ll become more of a jack-of-all-trades.

The highest value on this list, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is the 5% employment growth predicted for biomedical engineers and bioengineers over the next ten years. The expected growth rate for the other majors on this list over the following ten years is three to four percent.

Which Engineering Has The Hardest Math?

Of all the engineering fields, electrical engineering requires the most math. When dealing with advanced circuit analysis, you largely rely on differential equations, and electromagnetism is essentially a math and physics course.

Conclusion

The possibilities for your future profession will be many if you complete a major in one of the listed majors. You’ll get so much knowledge that you’ll probably be able to find employment even in fields that are only loosely associated with your specialty.

FAQs On Hardest Engineering Majors

References

• https://worldscholarshub.com
• https://worldscholarshub.com
• https://collegelearners.org
• https://www.physicsforums.com

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