Hardest Degree in Guinness World Record [Updated 2024 List] (2024)

Hardest Degree in Guinness World Record: Are you wondering what the hardest degree is according to the Guinness World Records? While there are many challenging fields of study out there, some stand out as being especially tough. Let’s take a closer look at what might be considered the most difficult college major and what earning such a degree entails.

Is there a hardest degree in the Guinness world record?

You may have come across claims online that aBachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)was recognized by Guinness World Records as the hardest degree back in 2011. According to these assertions, a BSN supposedly involves a staggering 64 university exams, 164 series exams, and 174 assignments – all within a 2-year, 1000-day maximum timeframe. The rumor suggests that nursing beat out other notably difficult majors like medicine, engineering, and more for the title of “hardest degree”.

However, it’s important to note that Guinness World Records does not have an official category for the “hardest degree”. The famous record-keeping organization focuses more on documenting specific achievements like the tallest building or the longest marathon. They do not maintain records related to the difficulty of academic degrees.

Determining which degree is the “hardest” is also highly subjective. What’s challenging for one student may come more easily to another, depending on individual strengths, aptitudes, and interests. Personal circ*mstances, the school you attend, and available resources can also impact how hard you find a particular program.

So while the viral “hardest degree” claims about the BSN may be intriguing, they do not reflect any actual Guinness World Record. No one degree can be definitively crowned “the hardest”. It’s up to each individual student to decide what they consider to be the most challenging path.

Hardest Degree in World Record 2024

So while there may not be a definitive “hardest degree” according to Guinness, we can still look at which fields of study are generally considered to be the most difficult in 2024. Rigorous standards, heavy course loads, and high levels of specialization are often what puts adegree programin the running for “most challenging”.

According to U.S. News & World Report, these are the top 15 hardest degrees as of 2024:

Medicine

Becoming a doctor requires tremendous dedication. You’ll spend 4 years in med school studying anatomy, pharmacology, and more. Clinical rotations and licensing exams like the USMLE make this an intense path.

Law

Future lawyers usually complete a 4-year undergrad degree before 3 years of law school. Courses in torts, contracts, and criminal law are just the beginning. A state bar exam is also required to practice law.

Engineering

Engineering degrees in civil, mechanical, electrical and other subfields are math and science-heavy. Coursework in design and computer programming can take 4-6 years to complete.

Physics

A physics degree explores matter, energy, and the forces that govern our universe. Advanced mathematics are a must for courses in quantum mechanics and electromagnetism.

Chemistry

Chemistry students investigate chemical properties, reactions and behaviors of substances. A strong foundation in math and science is essential for success in challenging courses like organic chemistry.

Mathematics

Math degrees dive deep into the study of numbers, quantities, shapes and abstract concepts. Courses in calculus, algebra, geometry and beyond make this a field for real number-lovers.

Pharmacy

Pharmacists must earn a 4-year PharmD degree. Pharmacy students learn to safely dispense medication and advise patients. Clinical rotations are part of the intense training process.

Computer Science

Studying computer science teaches you to design systems and software through programming, algorithms, and more. Students gain hands-on experience with challenging development projects.

Natural Sciences

Degrees in this broad category include biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences. Expect plenty of lab work, research projects, and technical science courses. A thesis may be required.

Neuroscience

Neuroscience majors study the ins and outs of the nervous system through courses in anatomy, physiology, and psychology. Advanced research projects are often part of the curriculum.

Aerospace Engineering

Want to design aircraft and spacecraft? An aerospace engineering degree includes tough courses in aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural analysis. Complex design projects are the norm.

Marine Biology

Marine biology majors explore life in the oceans through courses in oceanography, marine ecology and more. Fieldwork, research projects and a thesis are common degree requirements.

Quantitative Economics

This specialized economics degree uses rigorous math and statistical methods to analyze economic issues. Courses in econometrics and microeconomic theory can prove challenging.

Veterinary Science

Veterinarians-in-training study animal health and care via courses in anatomy,pharmacology, etc. Hands-on clinical rotations and research projects add to the intensity of vet school.

Nursing

While incredibly rewarding, earning a nursing degree is no walk in the park. Nursing students take courses in anatomy, pharmacology and medical theory while completing supervised clinical rotations.

The common thread between these challenging degrees is the sheer volume of complex, technical information that must be mastered. Succeeding in these fields requires a great deal of time, effort, and grit.

FAQs on Hardest Degree in Guinness World Record

Let’s review some frequently asked questions about the world’s hardest degrees:

What makes a degree so hard to obtain?

• Heavy course loads
• Highly technical subject matter
• Extensive research or lab work
• Required clinical experience
• Difficult exams and licensing requirements

What are the benefits of earning a challenging degree?

• In-demand career opportunities
• Higher earning potential
• Credibility in your field
• Personal growth and achievement
• Deep subject matter expertise

What are the top 5 hardest college majors in 2024?

• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Mathematics

What’s the hardest degree for landing a job?

Graduates in competitive fields like computer science, engineering, finance, and medicine may face stiff competition for top jobs. Building a strong professional network can help.

Which degrees will be most in demand moving forward?

Tech-related fields like programming, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity are poised for major growth. The job market for these specialties will likely stay hot.

While ultra-challenging, the most difficult degrees also tend to be some of the most rewarding in terms of career prospects and personal fulfillment. If you have the smarts, drive, and passion – go for it! Investing your energy in a tough field that fascinates you can pay off big time. Just remember, no matter what online rumors may claim, there’s no official “hardest degree” according to the record books. You’ll have to judge for yourself which program pushes you to your limits.