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Top 21+ Hardest & Easiest PhDs to Get (High PhDs, FAQs)

• January 23, 2022

The hardest and easiest PhDs to get are the PhD programs that allow you to expand your knowledge and skillset in your chosen sector. It can also assist you in qualifying for a promotion due to the process.

A part-time PhD mixed with full-time work is not impossible with some time management and organization.

Thus, one helpful advice is to do some research towards the end of your workday in the workplace, rather than after you get home when you are exhausted.

Table of Contents

Is a PhD Worth it?

When you start a PhD program, you’ll delve into your chosen field more deeply than ever.

This advanced degree is wonderful since it opens up new waters for exploration. The point is to learn something new, draw some interesting conclusions, and, ideally, add to the body of knowledge in your subject.

However, if money is an issue, look into graduate assistant employment that covers some school costs.

In exchange for service in the classroom or laboratory, several programs provide financial aid for higher education.

Suppose you are currently employed full-time and are anticipating that earning a PhD will help you grow in your profession. In that case, you may want to think about continuing your current employment while also completing your doctorate on a part-time basis.

NB: The job market may not look bright even after you’ve been in the workforce for a while and earned your bachelor’s degree.

There’s no promise that things will improve after a delay, but a graduate assistantship can provide financial stability as you earn your PhD and build your career credentials.

Are there hard PhD degrees?

A PhD work develops due to your prior studies, preferences and dislikes, abilities and desires, and other factors.

Doing this task in the appropriate setting and with the proper counsel will push you to the limits of your ability, far beyond what you imagined was possible.

It should be difficult, but only as difficult as you are capable of enduring while at the same time being something you thoroughly like. Your efforts will be rewarded by your accomplishments as well as the approval of your peers.

A PhD project is not the same as an ultramarathon, where the difficulty is measured in kilometres, but rather in hours. There is no such thing as the most difficult PhD program.

The following list of difficult majors suggests that continuing the study will be difficult and demanding for the student involved.

10+ Hardest PhDs (Doctorate Degrees) to get

1. phd in chemical engineering.

A PhD in engineering designates a subject matter expert in engineering. International students pursuing a doctorate in engineering are expected to conduct great and innovative research while introducing new concepts or challenges to the engineering community.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, a PhD in engineering typically takes five to seven years of graduate school, and those with this highly regarded degree have numerous job prospects.

A PhD in chemical engineering is a fantastic choice for people who want to work in the academic side of chemical engineering, or in particularly high-level or complex fields of chemical engineering, and is assured to provide a strong career path for years to come.

2. Juris Doctorate

Law schools in the United States award the Juris Doctor degree (abbreviated J.D.) to graduates who have completed their undergraduate studies.

Similar to how an MD is a Doctor of Medicine and a PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy, a Juris Doctor is a Doctor of Jurisprudence in the legal profession.

A Juris Doctor degree can be obtained from a non-accredited law school in most states if the applicant has graduated from an approved law school.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, a PhD is normally completed in five or six years, with the second half of the time spent conducting original research. Compared to a JD, a PhD is a lengthy and difficult undertaking.

When you graduate with a Juris Doctor degree, you’ll be prepared to enter various legal fields, including corporate law, real estate law, human rights law, and legal counseling.

The Juris Doctor, on the other hand, is a good postgraduate degree for those looking to advance their careers.

3. PhD in Information Assurance System

The vast volume of data and information kept in computing devices and networks has recently made information assurance systems prominent.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, many corporations and government agencies have been unable to keep up with cybersecurity needs as the internet, and linked gadgets have grown in popularity.

The PhD in Information Systems degree is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of all key topics of information systems.

The PhD in information systems can be completed part-time or full-time, depending on the demands of the students.

4. Doctor of Pharmacy:

The North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) requires a Doctor of Pharmacy degree (commonly abbreviated as Pharm.D. or PharmD).

The NAPLEX is one of the steps in the process of becoming a licensed pharmacist. A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) is analogous to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS).

As a doctorate, it reflects pharmacists’ growing role in healthcare systems and Americans’ high regard for pharmacists.

College of Pharmacy graduates can practice pharmacy anywhere in the country after completing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and passing licensure exams.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, Pharm-D is a five-year program that includes 110 credit hours of coursework.

It is challenging, but it will be quite simple if you are eager to study life sciences, chemistry, and other topics.

5. Boarded Medical Doctor:

Board certification signifies that you have attained the highest level of accreditation in your chosen field. Each medical board will have its own set of requirements that you must complete to be eligible for certification.

Following medical school, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) requires physicians to complete 3 to 7 years of certified residency or fellowship training.

Following that, you must pass a series of difficult exams to earn an ABMS Board Certification. Becoming a doctor takes a lot of dedication, hard work, and years of study and training.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, you must first graduate from a recognized medical school and then complete a residency program requiring you to work for an extra year.

6. Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy:

It is difficult to obtain a doctorate in philosophy, but with dedication and hard work, you can meet the prerequisites and obtain your PhD.

Obtaining a doctorate in philosophy can be a rewarding and realistic step in your career—if you are willing to work hard.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, whether you want to influence academia or become a scholar at a think tank, obtaining a doctorate in philosophy can be a rewarding and realistic step in your career—if you are willing to work hard.

Read more: Cryptozoologist Degree (Meaning, How-to, Duties, Benefits)

7. Doctor of Optometry:

Doctors of optometry (O.D.s/optometrists) are the major eye and vision care providers globally. Doctors of optometry are important healthcare practitioners who are recognized by Medicare as physicians.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, optometry school is a reduced version of medical school and residency (7+ years) that removes much of the non-vision content. It is less difficult because you can become a medical specialist in practically half the time.

8. PhD in Math

In the industry, a PhD in mathematics has some importance. However, you’d have to decide whether the opportunity cost is too large.

A PhD in mathematics would allow you to work in any field that requires analytical thinking. Furthermore, your capacity to do well is dependent on your mathematical abilities.

A math PhD is impossible if this is low. If it is high, it is not difficult; all that is required is a strong work ethic and the ability to devote 5–7 years to graduate school.

As one of the Hardest PhDs to get, no step in your schooling is more difficult than this one.

9. Boarded Doctor of Osteopathy:

It’s not easy to get into an osteopathic school. You must excel in medical school prerequisites and the MCAT and participate in relevant extracurricular activities. And there’s a lot of rivalry for entry.

Although board certification is not necessary to practice medicine, it is useful for identifying a physician’s knowledge and experience in a specific specialty.

Board certification is another step a physician can take to reassure patients that they have received the necessary specialist training.

10. Doctor of Philosophy in Religion:

It requires dedication and determination to obtain a Doctor of Philosophy in Religion.

The procedure for earning a Doctor of Philosophy in Religion differs by university and program. Almost all degrees, however, will necessitate coursework, extensive research, and a dissertation.

As one of the hardest PhDs to get, many religion Ph. D. programs are lengthy, ranging from 5 to 10 years with a dissertation.

11. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine:

The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) is a four-year professional program that starts with three to four years of pre-professional study.

It’s a challenging degree with a rigorous schedule and plenty of job experience to cram into your ‘holidays,’ so you know what you’re getting into after five years.

As one of the hardest PhDs to get, the most difficult aspect of veterinary care is knowing you can help the animal in front of you but being told you can’t.

The most common reason people refuse to proceed is cost; however, people may also have moral or religious objections to diagnostics or treatments.

12. Doctor of Podiatric Medicine:

A doctor of podiatric medicine is to the foot what a dentist or an ophthalmologist is to the mouth or the eye. This specialist has completed extensive training to become qualified to treat a specific portion of the body.

Basic science classes are identical to those offered in medical school. Each lesson is not difficult in and of itself, but there are so many at once, with no “easy” classes to give you a break.

As one of the hardest PhDs to get, for two years, there are chemistry classes for seven hours a day, five days a week. Then half days of lessons for the next two years, with the other half spent visiting patients at the clinic.

Then there are three or more years of residence, during which you will work approximately 60 hours per week under challenging conditions.

Is it possible to do a PhD in one year?

No, you will not be able to complete a PhD in one year. To obtain a PhD degree, the average student will need between four and eight years.

However, this will rely on a number of things, including the type of doctorate you pick, the design of the program, and the location where you complete your PhD.

With the exception of the United States, most countries consider three to four years to be typical.

Read more: Acupuncture Degree (Meaning, Duration, Pros, Cost, Requirements)

Top 10+ Easiest PhDs to get

1. doctor of recreation:.

A Doctor of Recreation degree can lead to jobs as a corporate trainer, recreational director, sports manager, or health club manager, to name a few.

Additionally, you have the option of pursuing a managerial position in parks and recreation, hospitality and tourism, or RV park management.

As one of the Easiest PhD to get, the PhD program in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management is designed for students who want to work in a park, recreation, or tourism organization, either as a researcher or as an administrator.

2. Doctor of Public Administration:

Although working in public administration may be your long-term aim, your doctorate degree can help you choose any career path.

Your curriculum will teach you a variety of research methods as well as data analysis abilities, all of which may be applied to any career.

As one of the easiest PhDs to get, Doctoral programs in public administration typically demand 50 to 54 courses and take two to three years to finish.

3. Doctor of Sociology:

The doctor of sociology (PhD, D.Sc) studies human social organizations and connections.

In addition, the curriculum will assist students in building fundamental strategic skills in areas such as social stratification, family structures, sociological research methodologies, social organization and structure, dynamics of social change, and social deviance and control.

The Sociology program is designed to help experienced sociology graduates and professionals advance their careers by expanding their knowledge and abilities in research and process sociology.

It is one of the easiest PhDs to get.

4. Doctor of Ministry:

The Doctor of Ministry (abbreviated DMin or D. Min.) is a professional doctorate that can be acquired by a minister of religion while still in ministry.

It’s an advanced program for ministerial leadership. A Doctor of Ministry degree will set graduates apart as ministers, missionaries, or theology teachers.

As one of the easiest PhDs to get, a D. Min degree will expand your education, network, and leadership skills as a pastor.

5. Doctor of Physical Education:

The Doctor of Physical Education (D.Sc) program aims to help students better understand the discipline’s knowledge base through education and training, resulting in highly competent graduates who will contribute significantly to advancing empirically-based knowledge in Physical Education.

Although the conventional DPT program lasts three years, certain programs compress academic requirements into a shorter time frame, which may help you control the total cost of your education and get into the field sooner.

As one of the Easiest PhDs to get, an EdD, or Doctor of Education, is a professional doctorate that is best suited for experienced educators and mid-to senior-level working professionals who wish to manage and implement change within their organization.

6. Doctor of Social Work:

The Doctor of Social Work (DSW) is a professional doctorate in social work that often provides additional study in a professional area of practice, such as nonprofit organization, leadership development, and social justice, among others.

Typically, the DSW concentrates on clinical practice or nonprofit management. The majority of DSW programs last two to five years.

Typically, the DSW concentrates on clinical practice or nonprofit management. Rated as one of the easiest PhDs to get, the formal title of ‘doctor’ refers to a bearer of a DSW, as it is with other doctorates.

7. Doctor of Public Policy:

A Doctor of Public Policy is aimed at people who want to improve their policymaking and policy implementation skills at all levels of government.

Students who complete this degree will be prepared to perform policy analysis, advocate for public policies and community-based solutions, and serve in decision-making roles.

Your PhD in Public Policy and Administration will equip you with a working knowledge of public policy theory, research, and practice, preparing you for a career as a researcher, college-level educator, or administrative leader in a variety of settings, including the government, private sector, or nonprofit sector.

A Doctor of Public Policy is rated as one of the easiest PhDs to get.

8. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP):

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a nursing degree.

The DNP program builds on existing master’s programs by giving education in evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems leadership. It is often more clinically focused than the PhD or DNS programs.

However, depending on your specialty and years of experience, a nurse with an advanced degree can earn six figures per year.

As one of the easiest PhDs to get, one of the main reasons a DNP is worthwhile is that it provides substantial financial benefits. A DNP earns an average of $104,353 per year or 52.63 per hour.

9. Doctor of Counseling:

A doctorate in counseling is the greatest level of education available in the counseling area, meaning it is the highest level of education general.

Counselors who have advanced degrees have more job options available to them.

A doctoral degree may be required to obtain high-level employment in a university, hospital, school system, or community center if your career aim is more than just having a private practice.

Read more: Is a Communications degree worth it? (Quick answer)

10. Doctor of Management:

The Doctor of Management (D.M.) is commonly regarded as an applied research degree in management.

The emphasis is on applying management theories and learning to conduct practical research to identify and solve industry issues.

As one of the easiest PhDs to get, the fundamental goal of the Doctor of Management degree is to learn and comprehend managerial issues and how to design and implement changes and improvements in organizations as a leader, practitioner, and scholar in the relevant business environment.

A PhD in management typically takes 4–5 years to complete. A typical program consists of two years of intensive education (core courses and seminars) followed by a comprehensive test.

The dissertation process usually lasts two to three years.

11. Doctor of Psychology:

The Doctor of Psychology (Psy. D.) is a professional doctoral degree that prepares graduates for jobs involving scientific understanding of psychology to provide empirically-based service to individuals, groups, and organizations.

Like a PhD in Psychology, the Doctor of Psychology degree (PsyD) equips students to practice psychology in various therapeutic settings. A PsyD, on the other hand, focuses on therapeutic practice rather than research.

Highest Paying PhDs in the World

1. computer science:.

A PhD in this field can prepare you for roles in cutting-edge technology research or executive positions in tech companies.

You could develop new software, improve cybersecurity, or work on artificial intelligence. These roles often come with six-figure salaries.

2. Engineering:

Whether civil, electrical, or aerospace engineering, a PhD can make you a specialist in your field.

You might end up working on important infrastructure projects or developing new technologies, which are highly valued roles.

3. Pharmaceutical Sciences:

This field involves advanced research into new medications and treatments.

You could be working for major pharmaceutical companies, and these roles often command high salaries due to their complexity and the specialized knowledge required.

4. Economics:

With a PhD in economics, you could work in academia, high-level government roles, or financial institutions. These positions often involve shaping economic policy or conducting impactful research.

5. Business and Management:

A PhD can prepare you for leadership roles in large corporations or academic positions where you might conduct influential business research. Business consultants with PhDs also earn high salaries.

While a law degree is not a PhD, further specialization in corporate law, intellectual property, or international law can lead to very lucrative careers.

7. Healthcare:

Specialized healthcare roles, like neurosurgeons or psychiatrists, often require advanced studies beyond medical school. These are some of the highest-paying roles in the healthcare industry.

8. Physics and Mathematics:

With a PhD in one of these fields, you could be in academia, government, or private industry research roles. Sometimes, this research directly applies to profitable industries like technology or aerospace.

9. Data Science:

As companies and institutions gather more data, experts who can analyze this information are in high demand.

A PhD in data science can prepare you for high-paying roles in various industries, from tech to healthcare.

How long does it take to get a PhD in Mathematics?

Getting a PhD in Mathematics usually takes about 5 to 7 years. This can vary depending on the country, the university, and how quickly you complete your research.

The process typically involves two parts: coursework and research. The first 2 to 3 years are often spent taking advanced math classes.

After that, you focus on your own research, which could take another 3 to 4 years.

This research ends with a dissertation, a long paper you must defend in front of experts. Once that’s done, you get your PhD.

Frequently Asked Questions on Hardest & Easiest PhDs to Get:

Boarded Medical Doctor

Since a PhD is a type of doctorate, neither is better.

A PhD is less expensive than a master’s degree in engineering, architecture, or education. However, it is only worth it in medicine, other scientific disciplines, and business and financial studies. There is a 3% premium for a PhD over a master’s degree across all fields of study

Professionals already working have a lot of interest in returning to school. In India, there are a lot of institutions that make it easy for working professionals to get their PhD. 

Conclusion:

Making a PhD thesis involves generating new information, discovering novel concepts, and learning new skills.

Although academia is considered the most obvious job route for any PhD holder, the degree can also be used to pursue a position in an industry focused on research and development.

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The Most Difficult Academic Subject, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the academic subject you think is the most difficult!

What Is the Most Difficult Academic Subject?

• Mathematics
• Branches: Algebra, Geometry, Calculus
• Application: Every scientific field
• Position 6 in the ranking of the most difficult science to learn
• Position 6 in the ranking of the most difficult bachelor's degree
• Position 2 in the ranking of the most difficult PhD
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult Master's degree
• Position 2 in the ranking of the most difficult degree to obtain at university
• Position 4 in the ranking of the most popular STEM degrees
• Position 5 in the ranking of the most beautiful subject
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most beloved subject
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most comfortable subject on Brainly

Computer Science

• Branches: Theory of computation, Algorithms, Data structures
• Application: Software development
• Position 9 in the ranking of the most difficult PhD
• Position 5 in the ranking of the most difficult Master's degree
• Position 5 in the ranking of the most popular major at UC Davis
• Position 9 in the ranking of the most beloved subject
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most difficult course in Nigeria
• Position 8 in the ranking of the most difficult bachelor's degree
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult major in Education
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most popular STEM degrees
• Position 8 in the ranking of the most difficult degree to obtain at university
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most comfortable subject on Brainly

• Branches: Metaphysics, Epistemology, Ethics
• Challenge: Philosophical skepticism
• Position 10 in the ranking of the most difficult PhD
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult thing to learn
• Position 10 in the ranking of the most difficult subject in the arts
• Position 4 in the ranking of the most overrated degree
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most beautiful subject
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most difficult curriculum in the world

Theoretical Physics

• Key Concept: String theory
• Challenge: Unifying general relativity and quantum mechanics
• Position 10 in the ranking of the most difficult Master's degree
• Position 8 in the ranking of the most difficult science to learn
• Position 5 in the ranking of the most difficult class in school
• Position 2 in the ranking of the most difficult field of science

• Branches: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics
• Challenge: Predicting market behavior
• Position 3 in the ranking of the most difficult business major
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most popular major at UC Davis
• Position 5 in the ranking of the most difficult PhD
• Position 10 in the ranking of the most beloved subject
• Position 10 in the ranking of the most difficult degree to obtain at university

Neuroscience

• Focus: Brain function
• Application: Understanding neurological disorders
• Position 3 in the ranking of the most difficult PhD
• Position 3 in the ranking of the most difficult thing to learn
• Position 9 in the ranking of the most difficult science to learn
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most difficult class in school
• Position 2 in the ranking of the most difficult Master's degree
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult field of science
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most advanced science

Astrophysics

• Key Concept: Black holes
• Application: Cosmology
• Position 4 in the ranking of the most difficult science to learn
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult aspect of physics
• Position 4 in the ranking of the most difficult field of science

Quantum Physics

• Key Concept: Wave-particle duality
• Application: Quantum computing
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most difficult science to learn
• Position 3 in the ranking of the most difficult class in school
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult curriculum in the world
• Position 7 in the ranking of the most difficult thing to learn

Organic Chemistry

• Key Concept: Functional groups
• Challenge: Stereochemistry
• Position 2 in the ranking of the most difficult Chemistry class
• Position 6 in the ranking of the most difficult part of Chemistry
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult class in school
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult science to learn
• Position 1 in the ranking of the most difficult pre-med course

Linguistics

• Branches: Phonetics, Semantics, Syntax
• Challenge: Language acquisition

Missing your favorite academic subject?

About this ranking.

This is a community-based ranking of the most difficult academic subject. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or subject is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

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• Engineering

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How hard is a PhD? What every PhD student needs to know

Embarking on a PhD journey is a commendable endeavour that many consider a pinnacle of academic achievement. 

The challenges of a PhD often extend beyond mere intellectual rigour. While it’s easy to assume that the hurdles would involve complex research or profound theoretical concepts, the truth is more nuanced.

Embarking on a PhD is not just an intellectual endeavour; it’s a test of one’s resilience, adaptability, and perseverance through various personal, emotional, and financial challenges. While many assume the difficulty lies primarily in complex research, PhD candidates often grapple with distractions, mental health issues, and the pressures of consistent progress.

Thus, a successful PhD journey involves not just academic rigor, but also effectively navigating these multifaceted challenges.

From battling internal distractions and self-doubt to navigating financial constraints and mental health issues, PhD candidates face a multifaceted journey that demands resilience and perseverance.

In this blog, we’ll delve deep into these often-under-discussed challenges, shedding light on the realities of what people find out when they start a PhD and provide guidance on how to navigate them. Join us as we uncover the true essence of what makes academia and a PhD both demanding and rewarding.

Misconceptions About Why a PhD Is Hard

When discussing the challenges of a PhD, it’s vital to debunk some prevalent misconceptions. Many outsiders often attribute the difficulty of a PhD to its intellectual rigour or the depth of study.

While these aspects are undeniably challenging, they often aren’t the primary concerns of PhD students.

Instead, it’s the blend of personal, financial, and mental hurdles that make the journey uniquely demanding.

• The general belief that only the ‘smartest’ can pursue a PhD is a myth.
• It’s not just about intelligence but about resilience, determination, and adaptability.
• Many PhD students often report that distractions, rather than the actual research work, are their most significant hurdles.
• Such diversions could range from personal life events, mental health struggles, and financial constraints, to feelings of isolation.
• A PhD demands consistent focus and progress over several years.
• Small achievements and advancements compound over time, leading to ultimate success.
• While research, ideas, and lab work are crucial, the unseen pressure often comes from watching peers’ progress and unintentionally comparing one’s journey with others.

Common Struggles Faced by PhD Students and PhDs

• Work-Life Balance : Achieving a harmonious balance between rigorous academic pursuits and personal life is a perpetual challenge. The constant demand of a PhD can often overshadow personal time, leading to burnout and strained relationships.
• Financial Stress : Many PhD students grapple with financial concerns. Whether it’s the looming burden of student loans, insufficient stipends, or the cost of attending international conferences, money worries can often eclipse academic priorities.
• Isolation : The solitary nature of research can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. Unlike more structured academic programs, a PhD often requires long hours of independent work, distancing students from peers and social interactions.
• Imposter Syndrome : Many PhD candidates wrestle with self-doubt, constantly questioning their worthiness or fearing they’ll be exposed as frauds. This can be exacerbated by the high expectations and competitive environment.
• Time Management : Juggling various responsibilities – from teaching assistant roles to attending seminars and conducting research – can make effective time management a daunting task.
• Mental Health : The constant pressure to produce groundbreaking work, coupled with the challenges listed above, can take a toll on a student’s mental well-being. It’s not uncommon for PhD students to experience bouts of anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress.

In recognizing these challenges, it’s crucial to emphasize that they are as integral to the PhD experience as the research itself.

Addressing these external distractions and personal struggles is pivotal for a fulfilling and successful academic journey.

The Distractions That Impact the PhD Journey – more than time management

While the PhD journey is undeniably about academic rigour and deep research, numerous distractions often act as significant roadblocks. Understanding these distractions is pivotal to navigating the path successfully and ensuring a more holistic and healthier PhD experience.

A. Financial Strains

• The Sacrifice of Adult Life Luxuries : Embarking on a PhD often means prioritizing studies over many of the comforts and luxuries that peers in full-time employment enjoy. This can range from vacations to even simple pleasures like dining out or entertainment.
• Low Income During PhD Years : Most PhD students subsist on stipends or grants, which can be meagre. The income, often barely enough to cover basic necessities, can make financial independence a challenging endeavour.
• The Difficulty of a Self-Funded PhD : For those without scholarships or funding, the financial strain is even more pronounced. Self-funding a PhD means grappling with tuition fees, research costs, and living expenses, all while trying to focus on research.

B. Mental Health

• Imposter Syndrome : A common affliction among PhD students, imposter syndrome is the pervasive feeling of being a fraud, despite evidence of one’s accomplishments and capabilities. It can significantly impede progress and confidence.
• The Emotional Toll of Rigorous Research : The highs and lows of research, with moments of breakthroughs juxtaposed with periods of stagnation, can be emotionally draining.
• The Importance of Support During the Journey : Given the mental challenges, having a solid support system, be it friends, family, or mental health professionals, is paramount to staying grounded.

C. Supervisor Relationships

• The Ideal vs. The Reality : While every student hopes for a nurturing and supportive supervisor, the reality can be starkly different. Not all supervisors are a good fit, and some relationships can be more challenging than others.
• Personal Experience with a Supportive Supervisor : A harmonious supervisor-student relationship can greatly enhance the PhD experience. When guidance, mentorship, and understanding are offered, it fosters a conducive environment for academic growth and personal well-being.

The Compounding Effect During a PhD

The journey through a PhD program is akin to a marathon, not a sprint. At the heart of this journey lies the concept of the compounding effect: the power of small, daily progress.

Much like the principle where small investments grow exponentially over time due to interest, in a PhD, consistent effort and incremental advances in research can yield significant results in the long run.

The distractions we previously delved into can severely disrupt this momentum.

Financial strains or mental health issues can divert focus, causing days, if not weeks, of stagnation.

Such disruptions can delay progress and even demotivate students, making it harder to pick up where they left off.

The Real Skillset Needed for the Doctoral Journey

The skills that qualify someone to embark on a PhD journey aren’t necessarily the same as those required to complete it.

Getting into a PhD program often means mastering exams, understanding how you learn, and other academic hacks.

However, once in the PhD realm, these skills can feel inadequate.

Suddenly, you are plunged into the unknown, where cramming won’t help.

You’re tasked with literature reviews, experiments, and research, sometimes without having been thoroughly trained in these areas.

This gap in training and the realization that the previous academic accomplishments might not be directly applicable can be jarring.

And though foundational knowledge of a subject is crucial, navigating the uncharted waters of personal research is where the real challenge lies.

Every PhD is a Unique Journey

No two PhDs are the same. It’s an inherently individual journey where each student is uncovering something new.

Comparing oneself to peers, though a natural instinct, can be counterproductive.

Everyone’s challenges, pace, and outcomes will differ due to a myriad of factors, from the research topic to supervisor guidance and sheer luck.

This comparison often leads to feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome. But the key is to focus on personal growth, measuring today’s progress against yesterday’s . Everyone has their unique hurdles; the goal is to surpass them one at a time.

Obtaining a PhD isn’t just about academic prowess but navigating a maze of personal and professional challenges. Recognizing and addressing these challenges, along with a clear understanding of the shift in skillset required, can pave the way to success.

Wrapping up – how to get a PhD even when it is hard

Navigating the tumultuous waters of a PhD program is no small feat. As we’ve discussed, this journey extends beyond mere intellectual challenges to encompass personal, emotional, and financial trials. It’s about perseverance, resilience, and adaptability, as much as it is about intelligence and academic rigor.

Key Takeaways :

• Acknowledge the Challenges : Recognize that you’ll face various distractions and hurdles beyond your academic responsibilities. By acknowledging them, you’re better equipped to tackle them head-on.
• Lean on Support Systems : It’s essential to surround yourself with a community of supportive peers, mentors, family, or professionals. They can offer guidance, emotional support, and sometimes even financial advice to ease your journey.
• Celebrate Small Achievements : With a PhD being a long-term commitment, it’s vital to celebrate small milestones along the way. These will act as reminders of your progress and fuel your motivation.
• Stay Adaptable : The PhD landscape is ever-evolving, and the challenges you face might change over time. Being flexible and open to new strategies or methodologies can make the journey smoother.
• Personal Growth Over Comparison : Remember that your PhD journey is unique to you. While it’s natural to gauge your progress against peers, it’s more productive to focus on personal growth and development.
• Invest in Self-Care : Your well-being, both mental and physical, is crucial. Engage in activities outside of your research, practice mindfulness, or even seek professional help if necessary. Prioritizing self-care can make a tremendous difference in your PhD experience.

Embarking on a PhD is indeed challenging, but with the right tools, mindset, and support, it’s a rewarding journey with invaluable learnings.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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The Savvy Scientist

Experiences of a London PhD student and beyond

How Hard is a PhD?

Amongst the general population, having a PhD is often seen as the pinnacle of academic achievements but how hard is it to achieve?

Having passed my PhD viva yesterday I now feel I’m in a position to really judge how difficult a PhD is!

Congratulations to Jeff @savvy_scientist who passed his PhD viva today, remotely! Now we're having a celebration – remotely! #StayHome pic.twitter.com/4rI0ZiCF5z — ImperialBiomechanics (@ICBiomechanics) March 25, 2020

A dive into the unknown

Any time we don’t have experience in something, the element of the unknown can make it hard to evaluate how hard it is.

Coming from your previous qualifications you may extrapolate and think that since your undergraduate degree was a step up from high school in work and difficulty, a PhD must be another step change in difficulty.

With PhDs it’s not helped by the fact that a lot of the time only the most academically capable students are interested in them, which may make you think you have to be really clever to do one. Plus, as they’re not that common it’s not always easy to find people with experience to speak to.

Growing up I didn’t know anyone who had done a PhD degree, heck none of my immediate family had been to university, so I appreciate that gaining an insight about PhDs isn’t available to everyone.

So how hard is a PhD?

The reality is that a PhD can be difficult, but mostly it’s just different .

How hard you might find certain aspects of a PhD really depend on your own working style and to a lesser extent personality. Let’s discuss the factors one by one.

How hard is it to manage the PhD workload?

During a PhD there will be times you have to stay late, or work weekends (every so often) but it’s nothing like undergraduate degrees, with relentless deadlines and all-nighters being a regular occurrence for a lot of us.

Something that studying for a PhD does have in common with undergrad is that there is always more work that you can get on with, which can be disconcerting. Though unlike undergrad this feeling doesn’t stop after exams where you can enjoy a long study-free summer, because there are no term times for a PhD. I’ve previously shared how much holiday I’ve taken as a PhD student .

You need to find a way to switch off, otherwise your mental health will suffer.

Prior to starting my PhD I worked as a research assistant for three years and I found it helpful to view my PhD as a full time job. Even all the way through to submitting my thesis, working consistently 9-5ish every day was enough. I do hear of people working every hour of the week but these are the exception rather than the norm.

For a deeper insight into my typical working schedule check out the post below where I shared my calendar.

How Much Work is a PhD?

PhD depth and breadth of study

If you’ve been in higher education for a while, you’ll have probably got used to learning a wide amount of topics in a short time. Topics are covered at a fast pace, sometimes in not much detail, without much time to build your understanding.

I can’t have been the only person who during undergrad was effectively have to fight fires, not having much time to concentrate and fully understand each topic before having to move on to the next one.

PhDs provide a step-change, where you focus in on a single topic to a much greater depth.

For most PhDs there will be a certain amount of knowledge you’re expected to have picked up from your previous degree(s), but the pace of a PhD is undoubtedly much more slow. The reality is that the breadth of a PhD topic is really quite limited, though it can often span several disciplines. It’s common for your project to involve topics you’re not completely comfortable with.

You have a lot of time to focus on just one topic and you’re expected and required to know the topic inside out. The good news is that you’re given more than adequate time to learn the ropes.

As a PhD student there is nothing wrong with refreshing your knowledge of basic topics, especially if it’s something you haven’t studied in years. I still look things up on YouTube and Wikipedia and there is no shame in doing so: you’re in this position to learn and produce scientific outputs, so it’s much better that you’re comfortable with the topic.

I would suggest that for most people a PhD is generally more relaxed than an undergraduate degree. That’s not to say there isn’t work involved, but the pace gives you breathing room to understand the topic comprehensively.

If there’s one key message I’d like to get across, it’s please don’t ever be scared to ask your supervisor questions. You’re not on your own.

That’s assuming your supervisor is interested in supervising, which sadly isn’t always the case. Lack of supervisor support is one of the main difficulties I’ve seen students face (in other research groups I should add!). I wrote some tips here for choosing projects and supervisors .

How to Choose a PhD Project & Supervisor

Essentially as long as you are willing to learn, I wouldn’t worry too much about this aspect of a PhD.

Is a PhD intellectually difficult?

You’ve probably heard the metaphor about standing on the shoulders of giants, and it’s true that as a PhD student you’re building on previous work carried out in the field.

However there usually isn’t an expectation to make massive intellectual strides forwards. In reality you’ll probably be giving a small nudge forwards to a small area of the field. For some people this can be a relief and make the idea of doing original research much more obtainable, whereas for others it may belittle the entire idea of doing research!

The reality of the situation is that PhD students may be seen as a cost effective source of labour to advance science. Although we’re often working on projects with complicated lofty descriptions such as “ nanoparticles impregnated with silver ions for cancer treatment ” or “ biphasic lubrication mechanics of soft engineering materials ” in reality the practical side of them does not require genius level intellect.

Oftentimes you’ll be doing pretty menial things behind these grand topic titles. These tasks require you to know what you’re doing, but rarely will you have devised the whole thing yourself.

Fun fact: at my first job after undergrad, working at one of the most prestigious universities in the world, my boss would sometimes bring in her gardener to pick up any slack, doing the same work as me and some of the post-docs.

A full house for @trayanovalab at the @ImperialBioeng annual lecture. Amazing work & images! #ComputationalCardiology pic.twitter.com/R2dxE7csbg — Jeff Clark (@savvy_scientist) June 18, 2018

Of course you need to be able to understand the concepts behind what you’re doing, but I wouldn’t worry too much if you’re worried that you have to be a genius to complete a PhD.

So is a PhD easy?

In terms of workload and difficulty a PhD isn’t necessarily as difficult as you might think, so don’t be scared off. That’s not to say it’s not without challenges which we’ll now go on to discuss.

How a PhD can be hard

Of course there are differences between projects, supervisors and universities but I’d say generally the main things which can make a PhD hard are:

Self motivation

Looking after yourself, dealing with isolation.

• Your ability to problem solve
• Fear of public speaking

Prior to studying for a PhD, your studies will likely have been structured by a timetable of contact hours, coursework deadlines and exams. Working towards a PhD is the first time you’re likely to experience fully independent working for extended periods of time. It will also involve work where no one, not even your supervisors, know all the answers. This can be daunting and I think this is where difficulties may stem from for many students.

A PhD is a long-term commitment so you need dedication to reach the end of a PhD.

By the end of your PhD you’ll have to demonstrate that you’ve contributed to your field with a thesis and/or peer-reviewed publications. This can be a challenge and without the regular undergraduate format of deadlines and exams, you may quickly lose focus. Regaining that focus and dedication is key to seeing your PhD through.

If this is something you struggle with check out my post on maintaining motivation during your PhD .

At Imperial we have two progress points throughout the PhD: one at 9-12 months (Early Stage Assessment) and another at 18-24 months (Late Stage Review). These formal progression checkpoints help by giving deadlines and a structure to work towards.

Solution: I believe one of the best ways to keep up productivity, and ensure you’re on the right track, is to meet regularly with the supervisor. I suggest meeting at least a few times per month. I do know some people who meet much less regularly and this can work for some people. However, I personally find myself chatting with my supervisor about far more than the types of things I’d want to ask in an email and this is where the mentorship aspect of a PhD can be made or broken.

In summary, working closely with your supervisor can make your PhD a lot less difficult.

It’s very easy to develop bad habits during your PhD such as:

• Eating badly and drinking too much coffee
• Getting stressed and working long hours
• Not getting exercise and sleeping poorly

From not cycling at all I've now cycled 1k+ miles in London, mostly commuting to @imperialcollege . Great way to get around with so many benefits. Started because of a free course by @RBKC & @Bikeworksuk w/ a refurbished bike! Few words about my experience: https://t.co/rGwSqomikD pic.twitter.com/joyVftxuVn — Jeff Clark (@savvy_scientist) August 30, 2019

Solution: Remember that working longer hours won’t necessarily help your productivity. Instead take time out of your day for breaks and go for walks. Dedicate time to look after yourself. If you’re looking for ways to stay efficient, think of doing things like commuting by walking or cycling. I’d also highly recommend cooking your own meals to stay healthy (and save money ).

When I say isolation I really mean a few different things:

Owning your own project

Every PhD project is different, you may collaborate with friends or colleagues for bits of your work but you are the only person driving forwards your project.

This means that you may face problems other people in the research group or department haven’t encountered. Not only could this be isolating but it may also set your project back if you don’t mitigate the risks.

Solution: Firstly, don’t be afraid to ask people for help. Maybe someone from your group doesn’t have the answer to your problems but they may offer useful advice or know someone else in the department who may help. Coffee breaks offer an opportunity to informally chat with colleagues, which can both be fruitful for your work and your mental health: here is a nice Science article about the positives of coffee breaks.

Imposter Syndrome

As every project is unique it can be very difficult to tell how you measure up to other people. At times you may struggle to understand what other people in your group are working on, but this doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for it! Supervisors have a good idea of what’s required for a project when you’re applying: if you’re accepted you’ll more than likely be fine in this regard.

Solution: Don’t compare yourself to others. This is fruitless, especially when every project is different anyway. Make sure you understand your own project well and you’ll be fine. Having a chat with other students can be a good way to reassure you that everyone goes through difficult times.

Staying social

If I asked you to close your eyes and picture a PhD student, what would you see? Personally I used to conjure up an image of a fatigued student wearing goggles and trapped in a lab, rarely seeing daylight.

That’s not always a hundred miles away from the truth, but it doesn’t have to be the case. We’ve already covered how working such long hours can be counterproductive, but also putting yourself in a solitary position like this can be both demoralising and awful for your mental wellbeing. Please don’t!

Solution: Take frequent breaks, get involved with activities your lab-mates or department are organising: or organise something yourself. Find something you enjoy and can look forward to going along to, you can still join clubs and societies as a postgrad. Being isolated can make a PhD so much more mentally difficult: it doesn’t need to be!

Solving problems

You hear people saying that to be a good researcher you have to be inquisitive and questioning everything. These are certainly good traits to have which can make the work more meaningful, but at the level of a PhD student I believe it’s much more important to work smart.

To me this includes the ability to:

• Think on your feet
• Don’t be afraid to ask your supervisor questions
• Be forward thinking and catch problems early

Solution: Set up a framework to overcome problems and always think of ways to mitigate risks by having a Plan B. For example I work with people who’ve waited six months for consumables to arrive: if you don’t consider risks like this you immediately set yourself up for a less productive and more stressful experience. As before, I really do recommend meeting with your supervisor frequently.

Public speaking

I’m not sure whether presenting your work is a requirement for every PhD but it’s certainly an expectation for most. If nothing else you’ll likely have to present in your viva.

A fear of public speaking is very common and as such it’s a common PhD difficulty to tackle.

It’s completely natural to be nervous with the idea of presenting, however that’s not a reason to avoid public speaking completely. On the contrary you’ll only get comfortable with it by practicing. We’re fortunate as researchers to get regular opportunities to try public speaking.

I certainly still get nervous myself but would rather face the fear than shy away from it: plus you feel great afterwards.

Solution: Take opportunities to give presentations, whether it be at lab meetings, departmental events or conferences. The great thing with being a PhD student is that you get to practice with no expectations that you’ll be perfect. It’s much better to face it now than push the problem back later in to your career. I’ve written some tips for how to keep your presentation interesting.

Presentation Skills for Students: How to Stay On Topic and Keep Audience Attention

Some example issues you might have to overcome as a PhD student

Common phd challenges.

Now that we’ve covered the categories of common PhD difficulties here are some common day to day challenges:

• You need to use a technique or piece of old lab equipment and there’s no one to teach you how to use it
• You’re scared to ask for help because you think you should already know the answer
• You’re not getting the results from an experiment you’re expecting to see
• You need to write a code to do something and have never coded before
• You’re struggling to understand a concept
• You’re bored of reading or are losing interest in the topic
• You feel lonely
• You’re stuck waiting for something to arrive
• You need to create nice looking diagrams
• You need to build a rig or piece of equipment from scratch
• You’re worried about giving a presentation
• Your supervisor isn’t providing support
• You’ve no idea what statistical analysis to use
• You’re facing funding limitations, meaning you can’t do all the experiments you ideally would
• You’re struggling to motivate yourself to write a 100+ page thesis!

I’ve written a separate post covering a range of challenges I faced during my own PhD and you can find that post here: Overcoming Academic Challenges and Failure During a PhD .

Overcoming PhD challenges

It’s normal to face problems during a PhD. It’s how you tackle these problems that will be the defining factor in how difficult you find the PhD.

Part of the joy in completing a PhD is knowing that you’ve managed to overcome these difficulties.

In all these scenarios having a chat with other people will help. Even if other students or staff can’t directly provide assistance, most people are very friendly and supportive which will boost your morale.

I can’t overstate how useful scheduling regular meetings with your supervisor is. It’s so much better to face problems early rather than awkwardly have to deal with it six months later. I meet with my primary supervisor every week and we work together to set short-term deadlines for my work which tie in with the larger targets.

For problems outside of your supervisor’s remit lots of universities provide additional support. For example the graduate school at Imperial lays on courses for PhD students covering how to code, using reference managers, statistics etc.

Plus there are usually facilities for dealing with things such as stress and anxiety via counselling, student support and chaplaincies. Don’t make the PhD more difficult than it needs to be, these facilities are put in place to help you.

Has my PhD been hard?

I’ve been surprised by how manageable the PhD has been. I wouldn’t say that any of the research work was particularly difficult, it has simply required dedication.

Good time management and taking my mental health seriously have helped a lot, as has considering it a full time job. Slow and steady wins the race. Simple steps like always having a backup plan to mitigate the chance of getting stuck if things go wrong has served me well.

I’ve never been a fan of presenting but have learned to expose myself to it in an effort for self improvement. Of the five conference presentations I gave during my PhD, I won prizes for two.

Remember that you may lack self confidence but how you come across to other people may not be how you perceive yourself: this can be very uplifting. If I can do it so can you!

Thesis-writing

I’m currently in the process of writing up a separate post dedicated to my experience of writing a thesis. In summary, for me personally, it wasn’t anything like as stressful as I was thinking it would be.

I gave myself approximately six weeks to write most of it. Mine was 190 pages in total which may sound daunting but I actually only had about 120 pages of proper content and it’s all with 1.5 line spacing. Each chapter was only about 20 pages which sounds much more manageable and really isn’t much for 3 years work!

Things which helped me included:

• Having already written up some results.
• Using figures I’d made for presentations.
• Not expecting it to be perfect.
• Setting myself tight deadlines. I gave myself two weeks to write the introduction, literature review and discussion chapters.

Some of us PhD students make things more difficult than they need to be, trying to make everything perfect. I’ve heard some staff say “good enough is good enough” which I’ve found a useful mantra.

I recommend not spending too long on the thesis because:

• Papers are what count, put your energy into them instead.
• There is no point trying to second-guess what your examiners may want to see, you could spend months deliberating and they’ll still potentially have corrections to suggest.

I was a bit nervous before my viva, which is normal. I was confident in the work I had done for the PhD, but was actually more concerned about being asked any theoretical or technical questions you’d be more likely to encounter in an undergraduate course.

Although it lasted more than five hours, mine was a supportive environment, mostly a discussion to give feedback to improve the thesis and publications. Remember to be honest and be reassured that you know your work better than anyone else.

In summary, how hard is a PhD?

• Most PhDs are not intellectually difficult but they do present other challenges
• How hard you may find a PhD depends on your ability to self motivate, look after yourself, deal with isolation, problem solve and master public speaking
• Everyone experiences challenges during their PhD but it’s how you confront those challenges that matters
• Make the most of your supervisor for support and guidance

If you’d like personalised help with your PhD application I am now starting to offer a small number of one-to-one sessions. Please contact me to find out more or click here to book a call.

If you’re interested in doing a PhD but are scared of the difficulty, please don’t be put off.

As long as you’re willing to learn and are dedicated I am sure you can succeed.

Finally, remember to enjoy the experience!

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10 Comments on “How Hard is a PhD?”

I have really been struggling on whether to apply for a PhD. This post has given me the realistic picture I needed. Thank you

Yay, I’m so pleased you found it useful, Ankita! If you can think of any other questions you’d like answered be sure to let me know. Best wishes

Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights, Jeff 🙂 I find this post really helpful in terms of being aware of what’s to come as I start my PhD journey – and more importantly, what I can do to overcome these potential obstacles!

Hey Julie, I’m pleased you’ve found it useful. Best of luck with your PhD!

Jeff, Thank you very much for putting this together. Im a second year PhD student who regularly finds themselves in crisis of confidence. This article really helps to give me a little perspective, empowering me to plough on regardless of nagging doubts!

Thanks very much for your comment, Callum. I’m really glad the article has helped. Best of luck with the rest of your project: you’ve got this!!

I am currently a full time MBA student who will graduate in December. My professor in Leadership actually approached me about whether I would consider becoming a higher ed professor and researcher. She noticed qualities in my writing and research that she said the job would suit me perfectly. I have been back and forth on the idea and your site has truly been a great boost for me in getting the confidence I need to apply for my PhD, so thank you :)!

Hey Sarah. Yay! I’m so glad the website has been useful for you, thanks so much for your comment. Do let me know if you have any other questions or suggestions for other content which would help. Best of luck with the end of your MBA and future PhD application! Best wishes, Jeff.

Jeff, Thank you for taking the time to put this together. I am entering my final term of my MS in Cybersecurity and graduate in May 21 and I was curious on the level of effort for a PhD. When my wife saw me looking at PhD programs however she lovingly made me close the browser so it may not be in the cards right now. Granted I do have 2 young children under 5, a full time job and am an Army Reservist so she isn’t wrong 🙂 However, I do really appreciate you putting this together to help other students interested in PhD programs. This has given me great insight into what to expect and what it will take. Thanks again! George

Hi George, Thanks so much for your kind comment, I’m glad it has been useful for you. In terms of how much effort a PhD is: anecdotally I did mine keeping pretty strictly to normal office hours of roughly 9-5 Monday-Friday and had the official letter confirming my PhD within 3.5 years of the day I started. Admittedly this is in the UK, I expect in the US it would take a little longer overall but the weekly workload doesn’t need to be overwhelming. I think my peers on average worked similar hours. The nice thing about research is that, assuming you have a reasonable supervisor, you are typically much more in control of your hours than in a traditional job. As long as you get the work done a good PhD supervisor doesn’t tend to care how you schedule your time so could fit quite nicely around other commitments such as childcare. Sometimes people think the flexible hours can only go badly for them: being expected to work longer hours than normal, but I don’t think this needs to be the case. Of course chucking endless hours at a task isn’t always useful, better to work smart! Sure some projects may involve intense sets of experiments but these are either usually few and far between or limited to fields like biology with cell experiments. In my experience anything based on a computer tends to be more flexible so you’re good. Basically the level of effort doesn’t need to be any more intense than a normal job. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions or I’d be happy to jump on a quick call if that’d help. Best of luck! Jeff.

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• 15 Hardest Degree Subjects (2024)

Choosing your degree course is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Your UCAS application is only the beginning of the experiences you’ ll have at university, the people you’ll meet, and even the career you’ll one day choose.

In this article, we’re going to cover the hardest degree subjects, because it is important to have a realistic idea of how challenging your degree will be before you take it.

If you arrive with misconceptions about how easy the material will be, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the course material.

However, if you know what to expect from your course, you’ll be able to look forward to university with excitement at the challenge ahead. When it comes to pursuing your passion, it is important to be well informed, and to give yourself time to prepare well in advance!

What are the hardest degree subjects?

The hardest degree subjects are Aerospace Engineering, Law, Chartered Accountancy, Architecture, Chemistry, Medicine, Pharmacy, Psychology, Statistics, Nursing, Physics, Astrophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Astronomy, and Dentistry.

If you would like to experience some of these professions before committing to a degree, or want to develop your skills to improve you application, an Oxford Royale Summer School can help. You can experience university life at the  Oxford Summer School ,  Cambridge Summer School ,  London Summer School ,  San Francisco Summer School  and  Yale Summer School .

Let’s dive right in, and look at why these courses are the hardest degree subjects.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace Engineers study the design, manufacturing and testing of aircrafts. The study can be divided into aeronautical, astronautical, and avionics. Studying aerospace engineering opens the door to many integral careers in today’s society and allows you to work with aeroplanes, jets, missiles, spacecrafts, and satellites. 

It is an extremely rewarding subject, but there is a reason it is one of the most difficult degrees. You must be skilled in multiple mathematics principles, including calculus, trigonometry and algebra, as well as having apt design and writing skills. The subject is based in practical applications, so you must also have good critical thinking and problem solving abilities. 

To study Aerospace Engineering at a degree level, you will be expected to perform at your best ability even before applying. For example, to study the subject at Imperial College London, one of the top 10 universities worldwide, you would need two A*’s and one A at least in your A levels or equivalent examinations. In your first two years you would need to develop a strong grounding in aerodynamics, lightweight structural mechanics, and flight mechanics and control before tailoring your studies in the following years. 

Some modules you may study include aerodynamics, aircraft design, mechanics of flight, management of business, and airframe and flight dynamics. You should also expect to study general engineering principles. 

Whilst it is a rigorous degree, Aerospace Engineering is a rewarding and challenging path, and you should be ready to work hard if it is something you want to pursue!

Law is officially the hardest subject to get a first class degree in 4 , so we all know it’s hard going. If you think you know what it’s like to have a lot of reading, go and talk to a Law student. Except that you probably won’t find any, because they’ll be in the Law library, reading. If you want to study Law, get ready for many, many hours with your nose in Law books.

However, Law isn’t just about memorising the details of legislature, enormously useful though this is. You also have to understand how these facts work together to create a system of law, and why this system exists in the first place. While you can enter a wide range of careers with a degree in Law, the path to becoming a barrister or solicitor is extremely competitive, and takes much longer than a three year degree. All in all, it takes six years to qualify as a lawyer in the UK if you study full time, which includes a one year Legal Practice Course (LPC), and a two year training contract with a law firm.

The pressure is really on for getting work experience as a Law student, especially if you want to qualify as a lawyer. Use your summers wisely to get internships at law firms, and if you’re aiming for the Bar, go for as many mini-pupillages (short periods of time where you shadow barristers) as you can. However, if you’re really passionate about Law, most of this process will be very exciting, as you head towards your dream career.

Chartered Accountancy

Chartered Accountancy is the realm of accounting that is officially accredited by trusted bodies, including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. One of the reasons this is a difficult degree to undertake is that it includes a three year accountancy degree, followed by up to three more years of training, or a longer degree that is accredited by the right bodies. Students often say that the hardest part of the process is waiting for the day they become fully accredited, as this can take many years, and there are no milestones along the way to fill the gap. 

An accounting degree sets students on a strong career path in business and finance, but in order to gain the benefits, students of accounting must have a comprehensive understanding of the field. You must have good mathematical skills as well as, often, computer science skills. Your degree will require you to have good analytical and problem solving skills, as well as background knowledge– or the willingness to learn– business management and economic principles. 

As an accountant you will also be expected to understand tax regulations in regards to individuals and businesses, as this will be an integral part of your career. In accounting, there is no room for mistakes. This, combined with the intense skills required and the longer course length, is why accountancy, particularly Chartered Accountancy, is such a difficult subject. That being said, studying accountancy at degree level opens you up to a world of professional possibilities, and if you are determined to pursue the subject could offer long-term profitable results. 

Architecture

Architecture is one of those degrees that we wish was easy. Who doesn’t want to wander around the city, pointing out a stunning building and saying: “I built that”?. But the truth is, Architecture is extremely challenging, and in some cases, as hard as a medical degree in terms of length and intensity.

Once you’ve completed your degree, you’ll need to do a year of practical work experience, another two years’ full time university course like a BArch, another year of practical training and a final qualifying exam. While this might seem daunting, it is worth it if you have a true passion for architecture. There are also plenty of other careers you can use an Architecture degree for even if you decide not to become a fully chartered architect, including a building control surveyor, an urban designer or an interior and spatial designer.

Architecture degrees are known for having substantial workloads, and tasks are very time consuming. You’re likely to spend more time building physical models and designing floor plans in time for deadlines than partying at the student bar. Architectural drawings can take hours to create, which leads to some late night studying. In the US, Architecture college students suffer from the most sleep deprivation, averaging just 5.28 hours a night .

Ben Sweeting, Architecture course leader at Brighton University says: “It’s hard to do very well [at Architecture] and hard to pass. There are no perfect designs or ways of working, but wrong ways of working. It can also feel more personally challenging than other arts subjects, as your creative vision has to work in practice”.

While Architecture is a creative subject, unlike other creative subjects like English Literature, you can’t pick up marks by defending a subjective idea. In Architecture, if your design doesn’t translate to infrastructure that is mathematically accurate and physically sound, it’s a write off.

Then, take the fact that Chemistry has multiple topics as well as organic chemistry, including inorganic chemistry (which involves learning about molecular orbital theory, acids and atomic structure) and physical chemistry (which you need to be a maths whizz to understand), and you get the picture.

If you were to study Chemistry at a top university like the University of Oxford , your weekly schedule would look something like this: 12 hours of labs, 10 hours of lectures, 1 Chemistry tutorial and tutorials in Maths, Biochemistry or Physics, where you’ll learn things you can apply to Chemistry.

Chemistry is one of those subjects where you have to have an advanced knowledge of maths and physics, because these subjects tie so much into Chemistry. If you struggle with mathematical and logical thinking, Chemistry may be the degree to avoid.

Also, there’s a lot of practical learning involved in Chemistry, which means that when you’re not trying to get your head around macromolecules and redox reactions, you’ll be spending the rest of your time in the lab. This brings with it a whole new skillset, including writing lab reports and carrying out complex experiments, to put your learning into practice.

It’s no secret that Medicine is one of the hardest degrees in the world, not least because courses are so competitive. UCAS figures show that 29,710 people applied to study medicine in the UK in 2022. The number of applicants from the four countries of the UK shot up 3.5%  from last year.

The process of training to be a doctor is a long one, and you’ll need the ability and dedication to complete a five year degree in medicine, recognised by the General Medical Council, a two year foundation course of general training, two to three years of core medical training and four to seven years of specialist training, depending on what area of medicine you want to work in.

The sheer volume of medical information you have to learn and assimilate to be responsible for people’s lives is the reason that studying Medicine takes so many years. Not only do you have to grasp the complex science behind medicine and disease and memorise enough medical facts for several lifetimes, you also have to gain excellent clinical skills, so you can work with patients.

Pharmacy is one of the least well known degrees, and one of the most extraordinarily  challenging. Not only will you immerse yourself in the complex science and makeup of medicines, you’ll also have to do many hours of clinical placements, to learn how to become an experienced healthcare professional.

Not only is Pharmacy very intellectually challenging (get ready for a lot of time in labs and trying to grasp very complex formulas), but it is also a very practical course. If you studied Pharmacy at University College London (UCL), for example, not only would you have lectures, problem-solving classes, clinical seminars and tutorials, you’d also have clinical placements, skills workshops with patients and visits to hospitals.

To qualify as a registered pharmacist in the UK, you’ll have to do more training after your degree. You’ll need to take a year of pre-registration training, and then pass the GPhC’s tough qualifying examination.

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind, particularly in relation to behaviour and functionality. As with some of the other degrees mentioned, psychology is challenging due to the rigorous academic expectations in a number of fields, not just one. You will need to be skilled and interested in both the scientific and social aspects of psychology, including biology and evolution, social anthropology, politics, philosophy, and sociology. 

There are numerous avenues that you can specialise in when studying a psychology degree, and you will be expected to become familiar– at least– with them all, which could include subjects such as Social and Developmental Psychology, Neuroscience and Cognitive Function, and Experimental Psychology. 

To study this subject at the University of Cambridge– one of the top universities in the world– you need at least A*AA at your A levels or equivalent. It is possible that a written test will be required for admission, so your background knowledge of psychology and sociology must be at the standard that you could competently answer a case-study related question before even beginning the degree. At Cambridge, the course load would include numerous lectures, classes, and a particular focus on coursework during your three years. As a practical subject, your coursework skills must be excellent, as your final year includes a 7000 word research paper on a topic of your choosing. 

Not only is the academic side of Psychology difficult, but the practical application of your degree once you leave school is also challenging. In order to study the subject, and get the most out of your degree, you must be a well rounded individual who is prepared to take on all aspects of the course. 

Statistics, or statistical science, is the study of data. A statistician uses mathematical principles to determine what types of data are needed in numerous different scenarios, how to collect such data, and how to appropriately analyse data in order to answer specific questions. If that sounds slightly ambiguous compared to other degree outlines, it’s because it is. Statistics is a degree that is applied across hundreds of careers: data analytics, financial risk analysis, operational research, economics, financial trading, as well as general statistical analysis. 

Statistics in itself and how to apply statistics in a useful manner is a hard concept in itself to grasp, and the degree is made harder through the rigorous academic expectations that are set. When studying Statistics you must be adept in calculus, linear algebra and probability, strong computer science skills, analytical and problem solving skills, and matrix methods. What distinguishes statistics from other analytical subjects like computer science is that you also need excellent communication and people skills, as a key part of the practice is being able to accurately and succinctly interpret and convey data on a large scale, often to people who may not be as well versed in data analysis. 

Applying to study this subject at university requires high grades, at least three A* at A Level or equivalent with one being in Mathematics. You will be expected to reinforce your mathematics skills in the first year, before expanding and specialising in later years. At the University of Oxford, for example, your typical week in first year would be around 10 lectures a week, with 3 tutorials. First year is identical to a mathematics degree, and you must be prepared for this. In your third and fourth year this could rise to as many as 12 lectures and 4 classes per week, not including hours spent on final year projects. 

Statistics is a highly sought after skill, and having a degree in the subject increases your employability in a number of areas. That being said, there is a reason it is one of the hardest degrees, as studying it requires a range of skills from mathematics to communication.

As with Medicine and Dentistry, Nursing is one of the hardest degrees, for good reason. As a nursing professional you would be responsible for the health and care of a number of patients. Good programmes take a rigorous and immersive approach to prepare you for patient care. You will have pressing deadlines, lab skills to master, and essential exams to undertake. It is an exhaustive practice, but highly rewarding. 

At degree level you will be required to learn both the practical skills of nursing and the extensive background knowledge. As a nursing student, you must be able to understand the concepts of equity, equality and diversity and how they apply to healthcare. You need to grasp the global context of environmental determinants of health, as well as having the basic understanding of bioscience and its application to nursing. The large amounts of theoretical and practical knowledge highlights the difficulty of the degree.

If you were to study Nursing at King’s College London, the top nursing school in the UK, you would need three B’s at A Level or equivalent, with their preferred subjects being Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology. One of the hardest parts of this degree is the independent work, and collaborative work with colleagues across multiple disciplines– not only will you need to have good background knowledge and quick recall, you also need to be able to confidently identify health problems on your own, and work as a team when necessary. 

Nurses are essential to our society, and provide care to the most vulnerable. This is why studying to become a nurse is one of the hardest degrees. Heavily based in practical placements and lab skills, alongside background knowledge in biomedical science, this degree is a challenge you must be ready to commit to.

Physics is an astoundingly rigorous degree. It’s one thing to find the general ideas of Physics interesting (after all, who wouldn’t be interested in a subject which explores the very make-up of the universe, from the mystery of black holes to the waves of the electromagnetic spectrum?). But it is quite another to dive into the mathematical principles, complex formulas and calculations within each area of Physics, and apply them enough to excel in your exams.

One of the most important things to know about a Physics degree is that if you’re confused, you’re doing something right! What this means is that to truly understand Physics (rather than just find out the answers to solutions without understanding their application), you have to sit down and sweat it out over those formulas, and accept that the answer is going to take a long time to come. Allow yourself to make mistakes, and then go back and work out how you got to those mistakes, and slowly, your understanding will grow.

The huge amount of mathematics in Physics can pose a challenge to students. The fact that one wrong calculation can affect your whole conclusion when it comes to Physics problems means that it is probably not the right course for you if you’re not competent at Maths.

Physics is a truly satisfying degree, once you accept that it’s going to take a while to grasp the subject. Researchers work for a decade or more in the field, and just feel like they’re scratching the surface, which is part of the beauty and frustration of this challenging subject.

Astrophysics

Astrophysics is the branch of physics that studies objects outside of our solar system, a combination of both Physics and Astronomy that covers subject matter from planets and stars to galaxies and blackholes. Astrophysics specifically looks into the interactions between astronomical objects and their interactions with physical conditions, including gravity. 

Astrophysicists must have a good grasp on physics, astronomy, and maths. If one of these subjects is your weak spot, you will find astrophysics difficult, as the interaction between these disciplines is crucial to the subject.

At degree level, you can expect to study in detail: quantum physics and electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and relativity, particle and atomic physics, cosmology, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and specific mathematics techniques in depth including multivariate calculus.

If you were to study Astrophysics at St Andrews you would need three A’s at A Level or equivalent, and two of these must be in Physics and Mathematics. You can expect to be part of multiple schools, at least the schools of Mathematics, Physics, Astronomy, and possibly Statistics.

The complex and at times vast subject matter you will be expected to handle is one of the reasons that Astrophysics is considered one of the hardest degrees. It is extremely specialised, and you must have a passion for the subject and be dedicated to your degree in order to succeed. This being said, there is a reason some of the greatest minds in science chose to study this subject– including Stephen Hawking. Astrophysics explores extremely complicated subject matter, but all to the aim of hopefully understanding our universe better!

Biomedical Engineering

Once again, Biomedical Engineering is a degree that requires the study of many subjects all at once. The subject itself requires the problem solving skills of engineering with the aim of developing new technology and equipment to improve human health.

The subject is a combination of biology, chemistry, computer science, physics, mathematics, and medical science. This interdisciplinary field of study requires the ability to tackle medical and engineering principles together– a tricky combination of two subjects that are incredibly hard studied alone. 

Not only must you have a scientific mind, but you also need the ability to create and innovate, as you will be working at the forefront of medical discovery. In addition to designing new equipment– such as pacemakers, insulin pumps, and printed organs– biomedical engineers also develop new drugs and treatments for diseases like cancer and heart disease. You must understand the same subjects that would be studied in a medical degree, while also pursuing answers from an engineering perspective. 

To study the subject at a top institution such as Imperial College London, you need at least A*AA in your A levels or equivalent qualifications. In the first two years you will be learning both the biomedical background, and taking a module in professional design. You will have the option in your final years to specialise in either Bioengineering, Electrical Bioengineering, Mechanical Bioengineering, or Computational Bioengineering. 

It is clear that Biomedical Engineering is an extremely challenging subject. It is also highly rewarding, so if this is the degree you wish to pursue you must be ready to undertake a large interdisciplinary course-load, and have the willingness to adapt to multiple specialties. 

Sciences like Astronomy necessarily involve a lot of failure, as you continually experiment with hypotheses to try and reach a conclusion. It’s not the same as just having an idea: if you can’t follow through with it, it’s not worth much.

There’s also a lot of mathematics in Astronomy, which is enough to put many students off. You’ve got to have the  logical skills to do basic special relativity calculations, as well as understanding differential equations and linear algebra.

However, if you love exploring space, stars and the planets and the very complex mathematics and physics behind them, Astronomy may well be the subject for you.

Dentistry, like medicine, is an important profession, and if you wish to study it at university you must be prepared to undertake high volumes of both theoretical and practical work. 

You need an interest and background in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, as well as having the fine motor skills required for dentistry. 

Dentistry is a hard degree for both its content, and its competitiveness. There aren’t as many universities that offer dentistry as there are that offer medical sciences, so you must be dedicated to the degree before even applying. 

King’s College London have one of the best dental schools in the UK, and their entry requirements include A*AA in your A levels or equivalent, with Biology and Chemistry required. The integrated nature of many dentistry courses, including this one, means that your taught science will directly relate to clinical practice, and clinical teaching will be underpinned by scientific understanding. 

Some of the hardest classes at dental school include oral surgery, periodontics, and prosthodontics, classes that require– once again– both a firm medical background knowledge and excellent motor skills. To choose dentistry, like choosing medicine, is deciding early on what professional field you will head into after school. It is far more rigorous than a typical degree, and has real world consequences. Make sure you are certain that this is the field you want to pursue before you commit, as there is a reason dentistry has a reputation as a difficult subject. 

So, that’s it. The 15 hardest degree subjects of 2022/2023. Each one of these degree courses is fascinating, challenging and rewarding, so if you have the skills and passion to study them, you will no doubt have a very exciting university experience. Don’t be put off by the challenging nature of these degrees: be prepared!

How to write a PhD thesis: a step-by-step guide

A draft isn’t a perfect, finished product; it is your opportunity to start getting words down on paper, writes Kelly Louise Preece

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Congratulations; you’ve finished your research! Time to write your PhD thesis. This resource will take you through an eight-step plan for drafting your chapters and your thesis as a whole. 

Organise your material

Before you start, it’s important to get organised. Take a step back and look at the data you have, then reorganise your research. Which parts of it are central to your thesis and which bits need putting to one side? Label and organise everything using logical folders – make it easy for yourself! Academic and blogger Pat Thomson calls this  “Clean up to get clearer” . Thomson suggests these questions to ask yourself before you start writing:

• What data do you have? You might find it useful to write out a list of types of data (your supervisor will find this list useful too.) This list is also an audit document that can go in your thesis. Do you have any for the “cutting room floor”? Take a deep breath and put it in a separate non-thesis file. You can easily retrieve it if it turns out you need it.
• What do you have already written? What chunks of material have you written so far that could form the basis of pieces of the thesis text? They will most likely need to be revised but they are useful starting points. Do you have any holding text? That is material you already know has to be rewritten but contains information that will be the basis of a new piece of text.
• What have you read and what do you still need to read? Are there new texts that you need to consult now after your analysis? What readings can you now put to one side, knowing that they aren’t useful for this thesis – although they might be useful at another time?
• What goes with what? Can you create chunks or themes of materials that are going to form the basis of some chunks of your text, perhaps even chapters?

Once you have assessed and sorted what you have collected and generated you will be in much better shape to approach the big task of composing the dissertation. 

Decide on a key message

A key message is a summary of new information communicated in your thesis. You should have started to map this out already in the section on argument and contribution – an overarching argument with building blocks that you will flesh out in individual chapters.

You have already mapped your argument visually, now you need to begin writing it in prose. Following another of Pat Thomson’s exercises, write a “tiny text” thesis abstract. This doesn’t have to be elegant, or indeed the finished product, but it will help you articulate the argument you want your thesis to make. You create a tiny text using a five-paragraph structure:

• The first sentence addresses the broad context. This locates the study in a policy, practice or research field.
• The second sentence establishes a problem related to the broad context you have set out. It often starts with “But”, “Yet” or “However”.
• The third sentence says what specific research has been done. This often starts with “This research” or “I report…”
• The fourth sentence reports the results. Don’t try to be too tricky here, just start with something like: “This study shows,” or “Analysis of the data suggests that…”
• The fifth and final sentence addresses the “So What?” question and makes clear the claim to contribution.

Here’s an example that Thomson provides:

Secondary school arts are in trouble, as the fall in enrolments in arts subjects dramatically attests. However, there is patchy evidence about the benefits of studying arts subjects at school and this makes it hard to argue why the drop in arts enrolments matters. This thesis reports on research which attempts to provide some answers to this problem – a longitudinal study which followed two groups of senior secondary students, one group enrolled in arts subjects and the other not, for three years. The results of the study demonstrate the benefits of young people’s engagement in arts activities, both in and out of school, as well as the connections between the two. The study not only adds to what is known about the benefits of both formal and informal arts education but also provides robust evidence for policymakers and practitioners arguing for the benefits of the arts. You can  find out more about tiny texts and thesis abstracts on Thomson’s blog.

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Write a plan

You might not be a planner when it comes to writing. You might prefer to sit, type and think through ideas as you go. That’s OK. Everybody works differently. But one of the benefits of planning your writing is that your plan can help you when you get stuck. It can help with writer’s block (more on this shortly!) but also maintain clarity of intention and purpose in your writing.

You can do this by creating a  thesis skeleton or storyboard , planning the order of your chapters, thinking of potential titles (which may change at a later stage), noting down what each chapter/section will cover and considering how many words you will dedicate to each chapter (make sure the total doesn’t exceed the maximum word limit allowed).

Use your plan to help prompt your writing when you get stuck and to develop clarity in your writing.

Some starting points include:

• This chapter will argue that…
• This section illustrates that…
• This paragraph provides evidence that…

Of course, we wish it werethat easy. But you need to approach your first draft as exactly that: a draft. It isn’t a perfect, finished product; it is your opportunity to start getting words down on paper. Start with whichever chapter you feel you want to write first; you don’t necessarily have to write the introduction first. Depending on your research, you may find it easier to begin with your empirical/data chapters.

Vitae advocates for the “three draft approach” to help with this and to stop you from focusing on finding exactly the right word or transition as part of your first draft.

This resource originally appeared on Researcher Development .

Kelly Louse Preece is head of educator development at the University of Exeter.

If you would like advice and insight from academics and university staff delivered direct to your inbox each week, sign up for the Campus newsletter .

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Half of Americans think young people don’t pursue STEM because it is too hard

When Americans are asked why more students don’t pursue a degree in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM), they are most likely to point to the difficulty of these subjects, according to a new Pew Research Center survey . About half of adults (52%) say the main reason young people don’t pursue STEM degrees is they think these subjects are too hard.

Policymakers and educators have long puzzled over why more students do not pursue STEM majors in college, even though those who have an undergraduate degree in a STEM field of study earn more than those with other college majors – regardless of whether they work in a STEM job or a different occupation. Yet only a third of workers (33%) ages 25 and older with at least a bachelor’s degree have an undergraduate degree in a STEM field, according to a new Pew Research Center analysis .

Smaller shares say the main reason more young people don’t pursue degrees in STEM is that they think STEM subjects are not useful for their careers (23%) or they think these subjects are too boring (12%).

A 2013 Pew Research Center survey , using similar question wording, found that Americans were also most likely to point to the difficulty of science and math as the main reason more young people don’t pursue degrees in these fields.

In the new Center survey, Americans with a college degree or more education are more likely than those with less education to say the main reason is that young people think STEM subjects are too hard (63% vs. 46%). Those without a college degree are about twice as likely as college graduates to say the main reason young people don’t pursue a degree in a STEM field is that they think these subjects are not useful for their careers (27% vs. 13%).

Only 13% of the U.S. workforce was employed in STEM occupations as of 2016, while the vast majority (87%) was employed in other occupations. Even so, four-in-ten of those non-STEM workers (40%) say they were at least somewhat interested in pursuing a STEM job or career at some point in their lives.

The survey asked those non-STEM workers why they did not end up pursuing this interest. The most commonly cited reason for not pursuing a STEM career was cost and time barriers (27%), such as high expenses required for education or a lack of access to resources and opportunities. One-in-five (20%) say the reason they did not pursue a STEM career is they found another interest, while 14% say they found STEM classes were too hard or they lost interest.

There are differences between those with and without a college degree in reasons cited for not pursuing a career in STEM. Those with some college or less education are about three times more likely than college graduates to cite cost or time barriers (36% vs. 11%), while college graduates are more inclined to say they found another interest (26% vs. 17%) or found STEM classes too difficult or lost interest in the subject (21% vs. 11%).

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Brian Kennedy is a senior researcher focusing on science and society research at Pew Research Center .

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Cary Funk is director of science and society research at Pew Research Center .

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What’s the hardest thing about doing a PhD?

Jul 7, 2020

PhDs are hard. That’s just common sense.

In fact, it feels odd to even be saying it. Of course they’re hard. They’re just about the hardest thing you could ever set out to do (remind yourself of that next time you think you’re an idiot). 

But there’s one part of the PhD journey that is harder than all the others. I’ve noticed it not just from my own experience doing my PhD, but also in my day-to-day role of  coaching  others as they complete theirs. 

It’s this: the hardest part of doing a PhD is flexing your academic muscles and speaking with authority. 

Let’s unpack that. First, what is ‘flexing your academic muscles’? Let’s consider what the purpose of a PhD is: to offer an original contribution to knowledge. Part of that involves asking questions that haven’t been asked before and, perhaps, overturning existing orthodoxy or contradicting existing findings or literature. 

In short, you’re pushing the boundaries of what we currently know. Not by much, admittedly, but you’re doing it nonetheless.

That in itself is tough, largely because you’re venturing into uncertain, unchartered waters. It’s you putting yourself out there and saying, ‘This is me and this is what I think’. 

But the real reason it’s so tough to flex your academic muscles in this way is that you’ve never really had to do it before. 

You see, during your undergraduate and master’s degree, the emphasis, by and large, was on learning what other people had already found out. Sure, you learnt critical reading, thinking and writing skills along the way, but you always did so within the confines of existing knowledge. You never had to push the boundaries of that knowledge. 

So, during your PhD, when you absolutely have to, you are left scratching your head wondering how. 

You’ll learn it eventually, through trial and error and incredible perseverance, but it’ll be incredibly tough. It’s meant to be. 

Hello, Doctor…

Sounds good, doesn’t it?  Be able to call yourself Doctor sooner with our five-star rated How to Write A PhD email-course. Learn everything your supervisor should have taught you about planning and completing a PhD.

Now half price. Join hundreds of other students and become a better thesis writer, or your money back. 

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Preemptive Action

10 biggest struggles of phd students.

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Starting a PhD is an incredibly daunting task. Normally at least 3 years, there are some challenges that you are almost certainly going to have to face during the program. Below we look at some of the biggest (and most common) problems that PhD students encounter.

If you are considering a PhD program , or just beginning one, advanced awareness of these stresses may help you overcome them if you ever have to make their acquaintance (don't worry, we have our fingers crossed). Plus, knowing that they are frequently experienced and nothing out of the ordinary will hopefully provide you some comfort. Okay, let's begin.

1. Isolation

One of the  most common problems for PhD students is the feeling of isolation. PhD candidates often work alone, having few or sometimes no other people on their project. This happens while friends may be working in offices and in teams, enjoying a far more social side to the 9-5. Predictably, this can lead to loneliness, lack of motivation, and the fear that no one understands, or can relate to the problems you are experiencing.

As an antidote to this, it is advisable to make an effort to get into contact with other graduate students. There are many ways of doing this, for instance, through journal clubs, conferences, or networking. Being in contact with other PhD students will give you someone to talk to, complain to, and will help alleviate these disruptive and negative feelings. Simply breaking up the routine of studying can do you a whole world of good!

2. Stress

With looming deadlines, large scale projects, and a huge amount of personal investment, a PhD can be extremely stressful. This is compounded by the fact that everything is always riding on you and you alone - making the highs higher and the lows, well, let's not go there. It has been found that PhD students have high levels of mental disorders  - likely related to high levels of stress they have to endure.

For this reason, it is imperative that one finds healthy ways to decompress, whether through exercise, meditation, the arts, or anything else. Any university worth its salt will also have mental health services which can be sought if things get particularly difficult. Regardless of how bad you're feeling, its always helpful to talk it through with someone. No problem is too small.

3. Conflict with your supervisor

Another common problem can be issues arising between PhD students and their supervisors. Supervisors are part-boss, part-mentor , and occasional friend. It's an odd combination, the balance of which sometimes can be hard to maintain.

When disagreements surface - and of course, over 3 years it is only natural that they will - some students can feel that they have to defer immediately to the wishes of the more senior and experienced supervisor. Again, here a supportive network of PhD students around you can help navigate these challenges.

Additionally, familiarity with the faculty in a broader sense (which is encouraged) will allow you to canvass more opinions. This may help you clear up a point of particular contention. Who knows, maybe you were right all along!

4. Funding issues

Most PhD students rely on external funding to support themselves while studying. Unfortunately, this too can be a source of concern. Funding can, at times, be insecure. It has been known, for example, for funding to be reduced while still in the middle of the PhD.

This is a precarious position to be left in and it can be extremely stressful to secure new funding. Ideally, supervisors should be on hand to help with this. One should never think twice about approaching them for advice - it's what they are there for. Still, it's also recommended that students at least have some money saved in case of emergency.

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5. Time management

So much to do, so little time to do it! This is probably the mantra of our age. Learning when to jump at new opportunities and when to say no to extra tasks is a skill which every academic should develop if they are to avoid going mad. This can be honed by knowing how to prioritize. What is absolutely essential that I finish today? What, at a push, could I postpone till tomorrow? 

Setting aside enough time in your day to fulfil these tasks will help this process and enable you to, when necessary, say 'nope, I literally do not have the time for that'. Rather obviously, it helps to be organized and to calendar your appointments carefully. And remember, it is better to do a few things well, than a number of things badly.

6. Work/life balance

It sometimes seems like PhD students are expected to study all the time; to be in the office every weekend and to work late every day. But this is not sustainable. You also need time for hobbies, friends, and family in order to function at peak level. This may seem a really obvious point to make, and yet, many students still suffer from the effects of having an incredibly lop-sided schedule.

Students should always remember: making time for activities outside of the PhD is vital for long-term success. A healthy social life, regular exercise, and cultural activities will be stimulating and fun. And, they're likely to make you happier. Even though you might not think about “happiness” when considering your goals for studying, you surely deserve some every now and then.

7. Lack of institutional support

Some universities are better than others at supporting PhD students. The best universities have extensive programs for helping them, through mentoring, workshops, and social events, while at other universities students are left to fend for themselves.

Graduate schools can be helpful here, as they are geared towards meeting the specific needs of PhDs. Try to find out what kind of support is offered by your institution – there may be more than you think!

8.   Lack of personal support

Another challenge for PhD students is dealing with a lack of personal support. Friends, partners, and family members may not understand the worth of a PhD, and may not be supportive of the choice to pursue one. Many a PhD candidate has been distressed by a well-meaning relative asking when they will be finished with their PhD and get a real job.

This is another reason to get in contact with other PhD students, who can understand the stresses you are experiencing and give you the support you need. Sharing these commonalities also helps to make light of them. Nothing builds camaraderie like shared experiences.

9. Concerns about the future

In addition to worrying about their current projects, many PhD students feel concerned about their future too. In an uncertain job market , and with academic positions being intensely competitive, there is no guarantee that getting a PhD will lead to a desirable job (we hope it will!).

That said, research does show that having a PhD under your belt hugely increases your chances of getting one. It also increases your chances of being paid better and enjoying greater job satisfaction. Economics PhDs in particular have excellent job placement rates. To help ensure you get to enjoy all of these benefits, it's sensible to start the job hunt early.

Remember, too, all the transferable skills you develop during your PhD studies could help you to get an industry job ,  if you feel you have had enough of academia.

10. Problems with motivation

When things are not going so well, and motivation is low, you should consider giving yourself a break. A few days or even a week away from your project can sometimes be really helpful, allowing you to come back to your work invigorated and able to look at it from a fresh perspective.

Maybe when you come back, you see something that before you had missed? Or even better, maybe you realize that the work you've done is actually a whole lot better than you had previously thought. THIS can be brilliantly motivating. Plus, you probably deserved a break anyway!

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Featured Article

A comprehensive list of 2024 tech layoffs

From major layoffs at tesla, amazon and microsoft to small fintech startups and apps.

The tech layoff wave is still going strong in 2024. Following significant workforce reductions in 2022 and 2023 , this year has already seen 60,000 job cuts across 254 companies, according to independent layoffs tracker Layoffs.fyi . Companies like Tesla , Amazon , Google , TikTok , Snap and Microsoft have conducted sizable layoffs in the first months of 2024. Smaller-sized startups have also seen a fair amount of cuts, and in some cases, have shut down operations altogether .

By tracking these layoffs, we’re able to understand the impact on innovation across companies large and small. We’re also able to see the potential impact of businesses embracing AI and automation for jobs that had previously been considered safe. It also serves as a reminder of the human impact of layoffs and what could be at stake in regards to increased innovation.

Below you’ll find a comprehensive list of all the known layoffs in tech that have occurred in 2024, to be updated regularly. If you have a tip on a layoff, contact us here . If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact us here .

• January 2024: 19,350 employees laid off — see all January 2024 Tech Layoffs
• February 2024: 15,589 employees laid off — see all February 2024 Tech Layoffs
• March 2024: 7,403 employees laid off — see all March 2024 Tech Layoffs
• April 2024: 22,153 employees laid off — see all April 2024 Tech Layoffs
• May 2024: 9,882 employees laid off — see all May 2024 Tech Layoffs

Is reportedly cutting hundreds of employees working in its Azure cloud business, though the exact number of employees impacted is currently unknown.

Is laying off 100 employees months after reducing its headcount by 50 workers.

Is reportedly making large cuts globally across several of its Cloud teams, including teams focused on sustainability, consulting and partner engineering.

Is eliminating 40 employees as part of a restructuring effort, CEO David Campbell wrote in a post on LinkedIn . 

Gro Intelligence

Is shutting down its operations after laying off 60% of its staff in March in an attempt to stay afloat.

Jasper Health

Has laid off a substantial part of its workforce , TechCrunch learned. Engineering and product design departments were most impacted by the cuts at the cancer care platform startup.

Is laying off 37 tech workers at FlightStats , the flight tracking startup it acquired in 2016, as it plans to consolidate its operations in India and the U.K.

Is cutting 15 employees in a round of layoffs, impacting 20% of the Israeli startup’s total workforce.

Has laid off hundreds of employees in a bid to keep the EV startup alive . One current and one laid off employee told TechCrunch exclusively that an estimated 150 people remain at the company.

Is shutting down its operations and laying off the rest of its staff. The COVID-19 test company laid off half of its workforce earlier this month to cut costs.

Has let go of 105 employees as the company seeks to “streamline” its operations, according to an email to staffers from current CEO Gary Little.

Lucid Motors

Is laying off about 400 employees , roughly 6% of its workforce, as part of a restructuring ahead of the launch of its first electric SUV later this year.

Will reportedly make large cuts to its global operations and marketing teams. The amount of employees impacted is currently unknown.

Will reportedly cut 14% of its staff , impacting 175 employees, as the company shifts its focus from original Disney+ programming back to films.

Let go of 20% of its staff as the coding startup shifts its focus to enterprise sales.

Cut about 30% of its total workforce . The recruiting startup that uses AI to find candidates was last valued at over $1.2 billion in January 2022 .

Eliminated 6% of its staff in another round of layoffs as the fast-delivery startup attempts to become cash-flow positive by the end of 2024.

Plans to lay off 106 employees , according to a WARN notice filed in Texas. 

Has shut down its operations . The number of employees affected is currently unknown.

Is cutting roughly 1,000 jobs, impacting 8% of the company’s headcount, CEO Chris Hyams wrote in a letter to staff .

Cut around 40% of its workforce, impacting about 550 employees, sources told TechCrunch . The company’s chief operating officer, Abe Ghabra, has also left the company.

Will eliminate 57 positions in San Francisco , according to a WARN notice filed in California.

Is eliminating 800 employees , accounting for 13% of its workforce, as part of a restructuring effort.

Told The Verge it has laid off most of its staff and is no longer selling its smart home controllers and light switches as it looks for a buyer.

Laid off roughly 170 workers , impacting a third of its total headcount, in an effort to cut back on annual operating costs. 

Closed Arkane Austin, Tango Gameworks, and more game studios as part of cuts at Bethesda . It’s currently unclear how many employees will be impacted.

Is eliminating 230 employees, about 49% of its workforce, in a cost cutting measure laid out in documents filed with the U.S. SEC .

Is slashing its workforce by 20% . The cuts will affect around 140 employees, and the company is also cutting ties with “the majority” of its contract workers.

Has laid off about 3% of its workforce , impacting 116 people, the company confirmed to TechCrunch in a statement. The cuts come over a year after the company eliminated about 4% of its headcount .

Is laying off 15% of its workforce , affecting about 400 people, as part of a cost-cutting effort. The company’s CEO Barry McCarthy is also stepping down.

Has gutted its charging team in a new round of layoffs , CEO Elon Musk announced in an overnight email to executives.

Has laid off staff across key teams like Flutter, Dart and Python . It is currently unclear how many employees were let go.

Is laying off more employees to “preserve cash,” according to an internal email viewed by TechCrunch . The number of cuts is currently unknown.

Is shutting down operations in the U.S., the U.K. and Europe, impacting at least 6,000 jobs across the closing markets .

Is cutting about 180 jobs in a profitability push and has let go its chief executive Hemant Bakshi, a source familiar with the matter told TechCrunch.

True Anomaly

The space and defense startup laid off nearly 30 people, accounting for about 25% of its workforce, due to “duplication of roles and functions across the company,” TechCrunch exclusively reported.

Is expected to cut employees in its Austin office for the second time this year.

Plans to eliminate 740 employees at its Oregon headquarters this summer, according to a WARN Act notice.

Stability AI

Is eliminating 10% of its workforce following the exit of former CEO Emad Mostaque.

Is laying off workers as part of continued cost cutting measures . The number of employees affected was at the time unknown.

Is reducing its total workforce by 1% . It’s the second round of layoffs for the EV maker this year.

Is laying off 5% of its workforce , affecting around 579 employees. The GTA 6 publisher also announced the elimination of “several projects” in development.

Is eliminating about 20% of its 59 employees in a restructuring effort.

Is cutting “more than 10%” of its global workforce , per an internal email sent by CEO Elon Musk. That could impact more than 14,000 workers worldwide, as Tesla prepares itself “for our next phase of growth” amid a challenging EV market.

Is reducing its global workforce by nearly 4%, impacting up to 140 employees .

Is laying off 250 employees based in Ireland as it restructures its Training and Quality team.

Hinge Health

Cut approximately 10% of its workforce, TechCrunch exclusively learned , as the company prepares for an IPO and aims to reach profitability.

Has laid off 382 employees, amounting to 32% of its total workforce, TechCrunch exclusively learned . The background-screening platform was last valued at $5 billion in April of 2022.

Reportedly laid off a sizable part of its staff in a restructuring effort. The number of employees impacted is currently unknown, but sources told Inc42 that it could be “in the range of 70-100” workers.

Is laying off 614 employees in California after abandoning its electric car project , according to a WARN notice .

Agility Robotics

Has laid off a “small number” of employees as part of a company-wide focus on commercialization efforts.

Ghost Autonomy

Shut down operations. The company, which was backed by OpenAI, employed about 100 people .

Is shutting down Yummly , the recipe and cooking app it acquired in 2017.

Will cut hundreds of jobs across Sales, Marketing, Global Services and its Physical Stores Technology team.

Byju’s

Is laying off about 500 employees , accounting for 3% of its total workforce, as part of a restructuring effort.

Has laid off 20% of its staff after acquiring point-of-sale platform Cuboh. The company previously laid off 100 people in 2022.

Nintendo of America

Is restructuring its testing department, which is largely made up of contractors. A Nintendo spokesperson told Kotaku the changes will end some assignments but will lead to the creation of new full-time positions.

Cut its global workforce by about 6,000 jobs , according to a 10-K SEC filing . The filing reveals the company cut 13,000 jobs in the last year .

Has made cuts to its staff, the company confirmed to TechCrunch . A report in Fintech Business Weekly estimates that 17 people, or about 15% of the company, were impacted. 

Is cutting 195 roles in an effort to become more sustainable, CEO Henry Chan wrote in a blog post . The layoffs impact nearly a quarter of its staff.

Reportedly eliminated 20% of its total workforce in its second restructuring effort in the past year.

Chipper Cash

Conducted another round of layoffs impacting 20 employees, CEO Ham Serunjogi announced in a blog post . 

Has reportedly cut 16% of its staff in a strategic move to support its Textio Lift product. 

Is reportedly laying off around 25% of its workforce . According to Axios, the cuts affect roughly 80 people.

Phantom Auto

Is shutting down after failing to secure new funding, TechCrunch has learned . The remote driving startup, which had cut staff last year, employed a little more than 100 people.

Is reportedly slashing its marketing and communications staff. The company previously announced a strategy to replace upwards of 8,000 jobs with AI.

Inscribe.ai

Cut just under 40% of its staff, equating to dozens of employees, the company confirmed to TechCrunch .

Laid off around 15 people earlier this year , following comments from CEO Chris Caren that the company would be able to reduce 20% of its headcount thanks to AI.

Laid off 13% of its staff based in its New York office as the web3 fantasy sports platform focuses on its Paris headquarters, a source familiar with the matter told TechCrunch .

Is eliminating roughly 7% of its workforce as part of organizational restructuring. The fintech unicorn last conducted layoffs in August 2022.

Is cutting about 13% of its workforce , affecting 40 employees. It’s the second round of layoffs for the battery startup in recent months.

Project Ronin

Is shutting down, resulting in a “permanent mass layoff” impacting around 150 employees.

February 2024

Plans to lay off 15% of its workforce and says it likely does not have enough cash on hand to survive the next 12 months.

Cut 5% of its workforce , impacting 670 employees, as it moves away from the “development of future licensed IP.”

Is letting go of about 350 employees, accounting for 30% of its workforce.

Is likely cutting hundreds of employees who worked on the company’s autonomous electric car project now that the effort has stopped, TechCrunch has learned.

Is laying off 900 employees from its PlayStation unit, affecting 8% of the division’s workforce. Insomniac Games, Naughty Dog, Guerrilla and Firesprite studios will also be impacted .

Will reportedly cut 1,500 roles in 2024 , primarily in its Product & Technology division, accounting for more than 8% of the company’s workforce.

Eliminated roughly 60 employees , or 17% of its workforce. It’s the financial startup’s third major layoff round in the past 12 months.

Is laying off 10% of its salaried workforce in a bid to cut costs in an increasingly tough market for EVs.

Meati Foods

Will lay off 13% of its workforce as it works to “build a financially sustainable business,” CEO Phil Graves told TechCrunch exclusively .

Announced it will eliminate 5% of its employees, impacting more than 4,000 people .

Will lay off about 550 workers in a move designed to promote “operating expense efficiency.”

Announced in an SEC filing that it will lay off roughly 250 employees as part of a restructuring effort.

Is scaling back its investment in a number of products, TechCrunch has learned, resulting in layoffs that will affect roughly 60 employees .

Is laying off 230 employees worldwide as part of the company’s efforts to advance its focus on “the AI-enabled workplace of the future.”

Is cutting 30% of its North American workforce as part of a restructuring.

Is reportedly cutting jobs in its healthcare businesses One Medical and Amazon Pharmacy. The number of impacted roles is currently unknown.

Announced plans to eliminate 6% of its workforce , largely impacting the company’s sales and marketing divisions.

Announced plans to cut 10% of its workforce , impacting roughly 500-plus employees, in an effort to “reduce hierarchy.”

Polygon Labs

Has laid off 60 employees , or about 19% of its staff, CEO Marc Boiron announced in a blog post .

Is laying off approximately 400 employees . The layoffs come almost exactly a year to the day after Okta announced plans to cut about 300 employees.

January 2024

Will lay off 95 workers in New York City, according to a filing with the New York Department of Labor.

Is laying off about 6% of its global workforce , or 280 employees, the company confirmed to TechCrunch.

Conducted another round of layoffs earlier this month, amounting to roughly 15% of its workforce, a source familiar with the situation told TechCrunch. 

Is reportedly laying off around 1,000 people in the Cash App, foundational and Square arms of Block.

Has reportedly begun company-wide layoffs . While it is unclear how many people will be affected, one source told TechCrunch it was expected to be in the “thousands.”

Aurora Solar

Has laid off 20% of its staff of about 1,000 people, TechCrunch exclusively learned. The cuts to the software startup come despite record growth in the solar industry last year.

Is laying off 350 people , or one-third of its headcount, after Amazon’s bid to acquire the Roomba-maker shuttered. Longtime CEO Colin Angle has also stepped down.

Is reportedly laying off 700 workers , or around 1% of its staff. This comes after the company had a significant reduction of 10% of its workforce in 2023.

Is reportedly planning to cut around 20% of its staff in the next few weeks. The company announced similar cuts in October, when founder Ryan Petersen returned as CEO and slashed its workforce by 20%.

Is laying off 1,900 employees across its gaming divisions following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Blizzard president Mike Ybarra announced he will also be stepping down.

Is cutting about 400 jobs , 7% of its workforce, as the food delivery startup seeks to bring further improvements to its finances ahead of a planned IPO later this year.

Laid off dozens of workers , according to sources familiar with the decision. The autonomous vehicle technology company has since confirmed that about 3% of its workforce has been laid off.

Will lay off 9% of the company’s workforce , affecting about 1,000 full-time employees. In a blog post , the company also plans to cut contract roles in the coming months.

Announced it intends to offer voluntary buyouts or job changes to 8,000 employees amid restructuring.

Laid off 20% of its staff , affecting 282 workers. In a blog post , Co-CEO Pedro Franceschi said that the company is prioritizing “long-term thinking and ownership over short-term gains in our comp structure.”

Eliminated around 60 jobs across the U.S. in Los Angeles, New York, and Austin in addition to layoffs in international markets. The affected roles, according to NPR’s initial reporting, are largely in sales and advertising.

Is cutting 90% of its employees as it shuts down its online used car marketplace and shifts resources into two business units: one focused on auto financing and the other on AI-powered analytics.

Is laying off 11% of its workforce , affecting about 530 employees, as the company focuses on “fewer, high-impact projects.” The League of Legends maker is also sunsetting its five-year-old publishing group , Riot Forge.

Is eliminating 13% of its global workforce , affecting 1,650 employees, in a restructuring effort aimed at cutting layers of management.

Will eliminate 100 employees , a spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch, as part of a restructuring effort in its creator management and operations teams.

Is laying off “hundreds” of employees in its advertising sales team, according to a leaked memo. The cuts come a week after the company did sweeping layoffs across its hardware teams. And more layoffs will come throughout the year, as CEO Sundar Pichai told the company in a memo obtained by the Verge .

Lost Boys Interactive

Reportedly laid off a “sizable” number of employees January 12. The game developer studio was acquired by Borderlands maker Gearbox in 2022.

Is going to lay off employees in 2024, TechCrunch exclusively learned , with the total impacted employees potentially reaching as high as 20% of the animation studio’s 1,300 person workforce. The cutbacks come as Disney looks to reduce the studio’s output as it struggles to achieve profitability in streaming.

Is laying off 5% of its workforce , citing an “increasingly challenging landscape,” according to a leaked memo obtained by Business Insider.

Is laying off 17% of its staff , impacting 170 people. In an internal memo obtained by the Verge , Discord CEO Jason Citron blamed the cuts on the company growing too quickly.

Laid off hundreds of employees across its Google Assistant division and the team that manages Pixel, Nest and Fitbit hardware. The company confirmed to TechCrunch that Fitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman are also exiting.

Is laying off “several hundreds” of employees at Prime Video and MGM Studios, according to a memo obtained by TechCrunch. The cuts come days after the 500 layoffs at Amazon’s Twitch .

Is reportedly laying off 500 employees , 35% of its current staff, amid a continued struggle to achieve profitability in the face of rising costs and community backlash. The pending layoffs come after hundreds more employees were laid off in 2023.

Treasure Financial

Confirmed to TechCunch that layoffs, conducted in December, had impacted 14 employees, accounting for 60% to 70% of the company, according to multiple sources.

Confirmed it cut 10% of its contractor workforce at the end of 2023 as it turns to AI to streamline content production and translations previously handled by humans.

Rent the Runway

Will cut about 10% of corporate roles as it goes through a restructuring plan following Anushka Salinas’ planned resignation as operating chief and president at the end of January.

Is reducing its workforce by about 25% , or 1,800 people. The video game engine maker went through three rounds of layoffs in 2023.

Laid off two-thirds of its employees as the German startup, which built collaborative presentation software, looks to pursue a “completely different path.” CEO and co-founder Christian Reber also stepped down.

The AI and biomedical startup reportedly cut 17% of its workforce January 8, citing “shifts in the economic environment,” in a LinkedIn post announcing the layoffs. 

Eliminated 38% of its staff January 8 as the online retail logistics company follows up after conducting layoffs in September 2023.

Announced January 8 it is laying off 28% of its staff , or 154 workers, as the small modular nuclear reactor company shifts its focus to “key strategic areas.”

Is reportedly laying off 15% of its workforce focused on computer vision for retailers.

Is shutting down at the end of 2024 after a 12 year run. The design collaboration startup was once valued at nearly $2B.

Is laying off nearly 20% of its workforce as it tries to maintain its battle with Nielsen over media measurement. CEO Ross McCray stepped down from the company.

Orca Security

Is laying off roughly 15% of its staff , totaling 60 employees. The Israel-based unicorn reportedly plans to move some impacted employees into other positions at the company.

Laid off its entire 200-person workforce January 2 after attempts to raise more capital failed, TechCrunch exclusively learned . The mass layoff comes just seven months after the startup acquired rival Zencity . 

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Valuable Resources

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What are the highest paying doctoral degrees ? Despite stories of candidates being “overqualified” for job openings, or potential employers passing over applicants with “useless” degrees, Ph.D. holders have the lowest average unemployment rate of any level of educational attainment.

Generally speaking, gaining more years of higher education is almost always good for your earnings potential!

Short of professional degrees (which include Doctors of Medicine and Juris Doctors, or lawyers), Ph.D.’s also earn the most over their lifetime when compared to other degree types. Take a look at the highest-paying doctoral degrees!

Additional Resources: America’s Most Popular PhD Degrees

The Highest Paying Doctoral Degrees

Now that we’ve covered the important factors that affect Ph.D. earnings (including industry and location of employment), let’s take a look at what specific highest-paying doctoral degrees are available on a national level.

We’ve looked at over 50 of the most common doctoral degree programs in terms of early career earnings, mid-career salaries, and “maximum” earnings. While there are obviously outliers with Ph.D. programs in many of these fields, “maximum” career earnings were taken by noting the earnings of the top 10% of earners with the degree in question, or the average salary for degree holders with the degree in a single city, whichever is greater.

Below we’ve ranked the highest paying doctoral degrees by their “maximum” salaries.

Ph.D. in Statistics

Statisticians utilize statistical analysis to aid in decision-making and product development in a wide range of industries. Commonly employed in business, health care, government roles, think tanks, technology, and non-profits, statisticians are in high demand among organizations that intake enough data to require statistical analysis.

Most statistician jobs require a master’s degree, so obtaining a doctoral degree in statistics helps statisticians to stand out even more in this sought-after profession. It’s noteworthy that doctorate degrees in statistics have one of the highest starting salaries of doctorate degrees surveyed. Their “maximum” salary, however, is slightly lower than the remaining professions in our ranking.

• Average Early Career Salary: $58,310
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $67,230
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $78,760

SEE : DOCTOR OF STATISTICS (PH.D. STAT.) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering

As populations age and health care becomes more reliant on big data and technology, Biomedical Engineering stands to play a more and more central role in healthcare solutions.

In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that Biomedical Engineering roles are expected to increase by more than 5% in the next seven years. Presently a doctoral degree in Biomedical Engineering stands as the primary way to become involved with research in biomedical research.

Often paired with an M.D., some medical device makers who also practice as medical doctors make substantially more than the maximum salary listed below. Just looking at the Ph.D. in the subject, however, the most common job description includes designing, studying, or improving biomedical devices.

Common locations of employment for biomedical engineering include hospitals, consulting firms, research groups, university settings, and manufacturing companies. It’s worth noting that while early-career average earnings are on the lower end of our list, by mid-career, Ph.D.’s in biomedical research are farther into the pack.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $62,647
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $70,619
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $88,164

SEE: DOCTOR OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING (BME PH.D.) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph . d. in im munology.

Immunologists are medical researchers (and for those with M.D.s, practicing physicians) who focus on disease immunity. For those holding Ph.D.s in Immunology, common work settings include teaching in universities, research in universities or hospitals, policy-related roles, or research in public and private labs.

While dual M.D.s and Ph.D.s are often required to pursue research on your own as an immunologist, just one of these two degrees focused on immunology is required to obtain a position in public and private research settings.

Since 2004, there has been a widespread shortage of immunologists across the nation. This has led to 10%+ additional vacancies in job openings each year over the last decade. This has been reflected in the rising income of immunologists.

When looking at early, mid, and maximum salaries for immunologists, it’s of note that those holding both Ph.D.s and M.D.s stand to make substantially more than those with “just” a Ph.D. in the discipline.

• Average Early Career Salary: $248,453
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $276,843
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $368,422

SEE: DOCTOR OF IMMUNOLOGY SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.d. in pharmacology.

Pharmaceuticals are big business, and pharmaceutical researchers are on both the front line with patients in need and scientific endeavors expanding the field. Those who pursue Ph.D. in pharmacology (a distinct degree from a Pharm.D.) are expected to have a master’s degree in related material.

Doctor of Pharmacy degrees, on the other hand, are shorter programs requiring 60-90 credit hours of prerequisites at the undergraduate level.

Pharm.D. programs prepare students for being pharmacists, while Ph.D.’s in pharmacology prepare students for research and instruction roles. While entry-level earnings are lower for Ph.D.s than Pharm.D’s, Ph.D.s can earn significantly more in research roles by their mid and late-career.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $112,065
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $118,979
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $133,394

SEE: BEST ONLINE SCHOOLS FOR DOCTOR OF PHARMACY (PHARM.D.)

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineers are some of the most versatile engineering types, finding employment in aviation, consumer goods, technology, transportation, logistics, and a wide range of other industries. While most forms of electrical engineering already provide a steady and well-compensated gig for life, Ph.D.s in electrical engineering are highly sought after.

While a Ph.D. in electrical engineering may still do some engineering work (some will work exclusively on topics they have specialized in) many hold advanced degrees in engineering instead of supervising teams.

For roles like chief technology officer, head of product, staff research engineer, project expert, and director of research and development, having a doctorate degree in electrical engineering may help candidates to stand out in extremely competitive fields. Additionally, moving up the corporate ladder that far increases pay far beyond that of “run-of-the-mill” engineers.

For the top 10% of earners holding a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, over $78,000 in compensation is the norm, often ranging much higher depending on the role performed.

• Average Early Career Salary: $73,027
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $77,006
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $88,708

SEE: DOCTOR OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING (D.E.E.) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.d. in clinical psychology.

Ph.D.s in clinical psychology have a wide range of career paths to choose from. For those looking to practice clinical psychology, a 1-year externship program is often required, where students obtain experience working with patients. Ph.D.s will also often specialize in one area. Common areas include health psychology, child psychology, and neuropsychology.

Additionally, Ph.D.s in clinical psychology may elect to work in case management roles, as supervisors in treatment centers, in hospital settings, in education, in corporations, or in research settings.

This wide range of occupational settings creates quite a disparity between early-career earnings and the earnings of the upper 10th percentile of clinical psychologists, as one can see below. With this range of roles one can pursue with a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, however, comes great freedom.

This versatile degree can help those in need, advance the study of the human mind, enhance corporate efficiency, or help in the education of the next generation of psychologists.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $46,400
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $79,800
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $138,600

SEE: DOCTOR OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (CLINPSYD) SALARY AND INFORMATION

Ph.d. in aerospace engineering.

Ph.D.s in Aerospace Engineering is one of the few sub-discipline degrees among doctoral engineering choices. While there are many Ph.D.s that may help you advance in aerospace engineering fields (physics, other engineering degrees, natural sciences, and so forth), aerospace engineering Ph.D.s often spend additional time diving into research on one subsystem of aerospace technologies.

For example, sensors, payload analysis, failure analysis, and so forth. With that said, a Ph.D. in any engineering discipline often provides a framework through which recipients can address any engineering problem.

And — even if not initially — many Ph.D.s in aerospace engineering find themselves working in other engineering fields, running their own companies, or moving into management. As one may expect, aerospace can be quite a lucrative field and includes employers such as NASA, defense contractors, branches of the military, airlines, vehicle manufacturers, telecommunications companies, and research opportunities at universities.

• Average Early Career Salary: $67,093
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $74,236
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $84,112

SEE: Doctor of Aerospace Engineering (Ph.D. AE) Career Guide: Salary and Degree Info

Ph.d. in engineering.

Ph.D.s in engineering are research-based degrees that focus on engineering at a theoretical level and prepare the recipient for either a role as a researcher or university instructor or industry work.

A similar doctorate of engineering degree is also a research degree (unique among professional degrees) and is similar in many ways to Ph.D. in engineering save for a higher focus on industry applications.

Ph.D.’s in engineering are some of the most versatile engineering degrees at the doctoral level. However, they may require time for the recipient to gather domain-specific knowledge (say, engineering related to wind tunnels, power plants, or aircraft).

This is evidenced by the growth in salary from entry-level through the highest 10% of earners in which engineering Ph.D.’s can nearly double their salary.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $69,140
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $121,830
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $174,530

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering is a multidisciplinary field utilizing physics, chemistry, economics, engineering, and math to resolve problems related to producing, using, transforming, and transporting chemicals.

Chemical engineers are routinely involved with all manner of consumer and business-facing production environments, from creating new materials for diapers to hazard assessments to large manufacturing plants.

Almost any consumer product produced on a large scale likely had a chemical engineer involved with some portion of manufacturing. So one can imagine the demand for chemical engineers is high. In fact, around 8% more chemical engineering manufacturing jobs are expected to be open in the next seven years.

For those with Ph.D.s in the discipline, employment opportunities also exist in research, academia, consulting roles, and entrepreneurship.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $75,633
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $83,381
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $99,727

SEE: Doctor of Chemical Engineering (PhD CE) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in physics.

Physics is the study of matter and the behavior of matter through space and time. When many think of physicists, they think of the cosmos. But many of the hardest engineering problems are also related to physics.

Those with Ph.D.s in physics will likely have specialized in one or more subject matter areas including optics, the physics of sound, atomic physics, nuclear physics, and gravitational physics, among many others. This often leads to important research roles in private industry or university settings.

From cars to spacecraft to telescopes, physicists have played integral roles in advancing products. With that said, even if Ph.D.s in physics have previously specialized in one area of science, physics helps to prepare scientists with the ability to think about a wide range of problems.

For this reason, many Ph.D.s in physics may find themselves in demand in a wide variety of industries throughout their career. And many talented physicists will find themselves well compensated.

• Average Early Career Salary: $65,995
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $71,659
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $114,248

SEE: Doctor of Physics (Ph.D. Physics) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in organic chemistry.

Chemistry is the study of the structure, properties, and reactions between compounds and materials. Organic chemistry utilizes the same research methods to focus on organic matter.

The good news is that this collection of compounds and materials (those that contain carbon) comprise a majority of known chemicals. Furthermore, all living matter is the study of organic chemistry. This means that applications for analysis through organic chemistry are veritable and limitless.

From pharmaceuticals to natural resources and geology to chemical engineering, the results of organic chemistry are all around us. Unfortunately (or fortunately if this is not the case for you), organic chemistry is known by many as one of the “hardest” subjects taught in higher education. For those who can excel in the subject matter, a wide range of career opportunities and compensations are available.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $59,968
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $67,470
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $84,061

Ph.D. in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Biochemistry is the scientific study of chemical processes related to or within living organisms. Molecular biology is an approach to studying biological mechanisms from a molecular level.

Together these fields of study offer a uniquely fine-grained way of studying living systems. While Ph.D.s in biochemistry and molecular biology are highly specialized, they find employment in a surprisingly wide range of settings.

From state crime labs to pharmaceutical development projects, biochemists and molecular biologists are often some of the most crucial specialists for ascertaining what goes on in our body at a molecular and chemical level.

Additionally, Ph.D. programs in these disciplines may, of course, find employment in research and instruction in university settings.

With this wide range of employment settings, there is also a wide range of compensation for biochemists. For the top 10% of earners, however, the field can be quite lucrative, making it our 4th highest-paying doctoral degree for 2022 and 2023.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $67,506
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $73,701
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $82,048

SEE:  Doctor of Molecular Biology (PhD Mol Biol) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in computer science.

Computer science is the study of the theory of computation as well as the design of computational systems. Computer science as a field of study has nearly as many sub-disciplines are there are forms of computing technology.

Though many Ph.D. recipients in the field will have specialized in a handful of technologies or theoretical components related to computing, computer science is also an approach to problem-solving that lends itself to the solving of many engineering situations.

While many with computer science degrees will find themselves in roles such as software developers early in their career, gaining a doctoral degree in the discipline can help workers quickly advance to positions such as systems architect, researcher, or development positions in subdisciplines of computer science.

Particularly highly compensated subdisciplines within computer science include information assurance, machine learning, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, virtualization, and many others.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $117,667
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $130,949
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $149,109

SEE: Best Online Doctor of Computer Science Degree Programs

Ph.d. in economics.

Economics is the social science that is intent on studying the production, consumption, and distribution of services and goods. Economic analysis often falls into a variety of categories that a Ph.D. candidate in economics could choose to focus on.

Broadly, these segments of economic analysis include micro and macroeconomics, theoretical analysis and applied analysis, normative and positive economics, and rational and behavioral economics.

As with all social sciences, each competing school of thought offers its own insights, and many are highly sought after in many domains of industry and public life. Economic analysis is particularly sought after in fields such as education, health care, criminology, and finance, among others.

A Ph.D. in economics can, of course, also elect to work in research or academic settings depending on their skill set. While early-career earnings are quite solid for those with Ph.D.s in economics, those moving into consulting roles or finance can command much higher salaries.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $78,124
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $93,369
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $106,848

SEE:  Doctor of Economics (DEc) Career Guide: Salary and Info

Ph.d. in information assurance.

Information Assurance is a discipline just recently brought to prominence by the massive amount of data and information held in computing devices and networks. With the rise in prominence of the internet and connected devices, many corporations and public entities have been unable to keep up with cybersecurity demands.

As of 2019, over 1 million cybersecurity openings will be unfilled nationwide. Additionally, the average age of those currently working in cybersecurity is approaching 50, meaning a lack of younger talent.

Though they will still need hands-on experience at lower levels, Ph.D.s in information assurance are great candidates for being the go-to resource on cybersecurity for organizations. As such, being a Ph.D. in information assurance in many organizations could put you on a shortlist for advanced positions such as chief information security officer.

While the average early and mid-career salaries of information assurance Ph.D.s are quite strong, many C-Level information assurance roles can bring in $300,000+.

The top 10% of jobs for the highest-paying Ph.D. in Information Assurance bring in over $100,000 a year or more, making information assurance the highest-paying Ph.D. surveyed in this year’s ranking.

• Average Early Career Earnings: $86,682
• Average Mid-Career Earnings: $96,249
• ‘Maximum’ Earnings: $106,915

SEE:  Doctor of Information Assurance (Ph.D. IA) Career Guide: Salary and Info

What is a ph.d..

First, we should clarify exactly what degrees we’re talking about. A Ph.D. is an abbreviation for Doctorate of Philosophy. Ph.D. holders obtain Doctorate of Philosophy degrees in some subjects. Though “Philosophy” is in the title, this is largely a historical artifact from when the study of philosophy encompassed most of the traditional arts and sciences.

Today, someone holding a Doctorate of Philosophy in Statistics will have mainly studied statistics and supporting disciplines within their course of study. The underlying spirit of the degree still applies, however.

“Philosophy” means “lover of wisdom,” while a doctorate is the highest degree in a university. Therefore, a doctorate of philosophy is the highest degree awarded to a “lover of wisdom” within the university system.

Typically this means that Ph.D. graduates have endeavored upon unique and substantial research in their field of choice and have attempted to advance their field of study.

While there is a range of common doctorate degrees, many are not Ph.D.s.

This usage of the term Ph.D.– though technically correct — is contrary to the common usage of the term. In ordinary conversation, Ph.D. and “Doctorate” are often used interchangeably. The main exception to this rule is that many people do distinguish between common professional degrees (including medicine and law) and more research-centered Ph.D.s.

In our investigation, we’re looking specifically at Ph.D.s, and not professional doctoral degrees. Though in many of the most lucrative Ph.D.s listed below, we do discuss the differences and similarities between Ph.D.s and professional degrees in the same subject.

Does job location matter when considering the highest-paying doctorate degrees?

In employment, location matters. In fact, along with your line of work, the location may be the single most significant determinant of compensation.

After all, the minimum wage in some cities approaches the average wage of earners in some states. The average hourly wage in America as a whole more than triples in a handful of the most populous cities.

In short, no conversation about payment of Ph.D. is complete without reference to where the said Ph.D. is working. While looking at the earnings of the entire population in locations is a good indicator of whether or not Ph.D.s may make more in an area, Ph.D.s tend to occupy a disproportionately high degree of jobs in the most lucrative fields in a region.

In a region rich with natural resource extraction, many Ph.D.’s are likely employed in geology or natural resources. In an area rich with information technology organizations, more Ph.D.s in computer science are probably employed.

This is partially accounted for by the trend of universities with large research presences in a field helping to foster entrepreneurship in a given field throughout the region. High concentrations of researchers and university funding help to create more business opportunities. In turn, this draws more talent to the universities in the region.

This is to say that average earnings within a region are at times not directly tied to Ph.D. earnings. Rather, an average salary in a region may be quite low, while opportunities for Ph.D. holders may be centered around the most well-supported industries specific to the region. With that said, many of the highest-earning cities and states in the nation are also the centers of highest compensation for Ph.D. graduates with doctoral degrees.

Does the industry matter when considering the highest-paying doctorate degrees?

The industry employing a Ph.D. holder is equally important (and often tied) to the location in which doctoral workers work when talking of compensation. While many top universities have highly regarded programs in many disciplines, many universities are known for just a handful of programs are the graduate level. This leads to geographic clusters of Ph.D.s in very different industries.

An example of the above may be seen in the following. The University of Iowa and the University of Mississippi are both well-known for their graduate programs in creative writing. A disproportionately high number of graduate degree holders in the vicinity of both universities are writers or writing instructors.

Even Ph.D.-level graduates in English literature don’t lead to as high of an income as say, chemical engineering. This industry discrepancy (among others) leads to great clusters of highest-paying doctoral degrees in California’s Bay Area, or Minnesota’s Twin Cities region (both of which are home to top-ranked chemical engineering schools).

Along with location, the industry in which a Ph.D. works is integrally tied to earning power. Below is a sampling of average earnings for the highest-paying doctoral degree by industry.

See also: Top Free (or Cheap!) Online Ph.D. Level Courses

Check this out for more information: Jobs That Require a Ph.D. or Doctorate Degree

Top 10 Hardest PhD Degrees to Earn

Emmanuel Onalo

March 24, 2023

Gaining any category of degree is never an easy milestone to achieve without dedication. It might seem easy from the outset, but as you progress, you realize that there is no shortcut to any worthwhile endeavor.

All the same, when it comes to the easiest and hardest PhD degrees, there are some courses that do not cost an arm and you do not need to sweat it out for long to get your certificate. However, there are some that require both. In terms of cost and rigorous process, they are king. But then, when you acquire them, you earn yourself a respectable position in society and these PhD degrees are high paying .

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In this post, I’ll share some of the hardest PhD degrees to earn.

What’s the Most Difficult Part About Earning a Doctorate?

Earning a PhD or a professional doctorate requires you to overcome a number of challenges. Only 2% of adults in the U.S. hold a PhD or professional doctorate. Joining this exclusive club can put you in a position to become a leader in your field, and achieve a personal goal few others attain. However, you must first have to get through a doctoral program. And that’s not always easy.

Among those who start a doctoral program, who are the best and brightest that higher education has to offer, nearly 57% earn their PhD or professional doctorate within 10 years.† If you don’t want to face similar struggles, you need to understand the challenges ahead—and have a plan for overcoming them.

The Biggest Challenges

Once the coursework for a doctoral degree is complete, the dissertation or doctoral study becomes the primary focus. Prior to beginning, it can be helpful to know some of the challenges faced by others. Here are a few:

• Getting Started Takes Time

After you have settled on a topic, the first step in the dissertation or doctoral study process is to produce a proposal. Your proposal summarizes the plan you’ll use to conduct your project. And not just any topic will do. Your goal is to explore an aspect of your field that no one else has explored in-depth, or no one has explored with the method(s) you wish to use. Plus, your proposal must be presented to a committee, which will either allow you to proceed or require you to make changes. For those who are eager to actually start writing their dissertation or doctoral study, keep in mind that the process of creating a proposal and winning approval takes time and requires a steady focus.

• There’s A Lot of Back-and-Forth

In most bachelor’s programs, when you write a major paper, you don’t receive any feedback until the professor gives you a grade, and often you may have been frustrated because you did not get a chance to correct it! That’s not the case when writing a dissertation or doctoral study. Instead, your faculty advisor will provide regular feedback, which may take some time but it will certainly strengthen your work. To keep moving forward, manage your time to account for this editorial process.

• You Have to Manage Your Own Time

Most students are used to attending classes at set times and turning in assignments on set days. But once you enter the dissertation or doctoral study phase of your doctoral program, you’ll be expected to set your own deadlines and manage your own time. While this structure is meant to provide flexibility, some find it difficult to work without a set schedule. Develop strategies to be independent and stay motivated! It’s also important to let your friends and family know about your educational plans so that they understand that any shift in your social or family schedule is for a good cause. Be sure to set an expectation with them in terms of your time and availability.

How to Overcome the Challenges

Two critical components of a strong PhD degree or professional doctoral program include working with a strong faculty and strong resources. But what if you don’t live near such a university? Or what if you have a full-time job that limits your ability to get to class on time? In these cases, online education can be a great solution.

No matter where you live or what your daily responsibilities entail, an online university can make it possible for you to complete a PhD program or professional doctoral program. That’s because online PhD programs and professional doctoral programs allow you to handle most of your degree from home and on a flexible schedule designed specifically for you—the working professional.

But convenience and flexibility are hardly the only advantages of online learning. When you enroll in a top online university, you’ll have access to high-quality resources that are available 24/7. Plus, you’ll have direct contact with a faculty advisor who understands the challenges you face and who can provide the guidance you need. Some top online universities even offer all-but-dissertation programs for those who’ve completed all the doctoral program requirements except for the dissertation or doctoral study.

If you’re enrolled in an all-but-dissertation program, you already know that staying motivated is key. If you’re new to earning a doctorate, then you’ll appreciate how studying from home during the coursework phase of your online PhD or online professional doctorate can help you learn how to manage your time, which will be an invaluable skill once you enter the dissertation or doctoral study phase.

Earning a PhD degree or doctoral degree can be difficult. But the right online university can make it very possible.

Top 10 hardest PhD Degrees to Earn

These degrees are arranged in no particular order.

1. Boarded Medical Doctor: After spending about eight years to earn your first degree, you are faced with between three and six years of residency. This is the most competitive field in education which means you must have passed through a very rigorous process to earn this certificate.

2. PhD in Mathematics: You can’t imagine the equations that were solved to gain a higher education degree in mathematics, not to talk of a PhD. Solving equations and finding the missing x and y is not what everyone is proud to do. Mathematicians deserve the greatest respect.

3. Doctor of Optometry: If you ever studied physics, you will understand how difficult it is to master light, lenses, rays, and others. But optometrists did more than just that! They are an incredible set. Optometry is not just to look at someone’s eyes and discover the kind of glasses fit for them. You’ve got to be an optometrist to feel what they feel.

4. Doctor of Pharmacy: These guys are not some guys you see behind the counter counting drugs for sale. You find them in the hospitals; they are legit medical practitioners who can prescribe the right drugs for you by merely looking at your medical history.

5. Doctor of Veterinary Medicine: Someone once said, “Is it not to treat animals!” No, it isn’t. Whatever it takes to treat various animals that are not going to tell you what their problem is has got some magic in it.

6. PhD in Sociology: It might sound so easy to obtain a PhD in Sociology, but wait until you gain admission to study the course. You will have to deal with elusive subjectivity, difficult phenomena, abductive reasoning, and so many of them.

7. PhD in Theoretical Physics: For you to emerge a doctor of Theoretical Physics, you must have background knowledge of Mathematics and Physics. A qualitative amount of focus is also required of you so as to be able to imagine the warping of gravitational waves and space-time due to the gravitational field.

8. PhD in Foreign Languages: It takes a lot to become a master in a foreign language, especially if you were not bred and brought up in that country. But foreign language professors do just that. Some of them have up to five different foreign languages they have mastered. I would not even try an undergraduate degree in a foreign language, not to talk of an advanced degree.

9. PhD in Computer Science: Here comes another course that could be seen as a branch of Mathematics. It still baffles me as to how an individual could find his way through the operating system, programming language, databases, and software engineering. The person must be a genius.

10. Doctor of Education: Some people think it is very easy to study education, probably based on the fact that the employability rates of educational doctoral students are high. However, what they did not know is that it could also take up to ten years for one to become a Doctor of Education.

Also read Top 10 Easiest PhD Degrees to Earn

Struggles of a PhD student

• Funding issues

Most PhD students rely on external funding to support themselves while studying. Unfortunately, this too can be a source of concern. Funding can, at times, be insecure. It has been known, for example, for funding to be reduced while still in the middle of the PhD. This is a precarious position to be left in and it can be extremely stressful to secure new funding. Ideally, supervisors should be on hand to help with this. One should never think twice about approaching them for advice, it’s what they are there for. Still, it’s also recommended that students ensure that they are financially secure themselves, or at least have some money tied over in case of emergency.

• Time management

So much to do, so little time to do it! This is probably the mantra of our age… Learning when to jump at new opportunities and when to say no to extra tasks is a skill that every academic should develop if they are to avoid going mad. This can be honed by knowing how to prioritize. What is absolutely essential that I finish today? What, at a push, could I postpone till tomorrow?  Setting out enough time in your day to fulfill these tasks will help this process and enable you to, when necessary, say ‘nope, I literally do not have the time for that. Rather obviously, it helps to be organized and to calendar your appointments carefully. And remember, it is better to do a few things well, than a number of things badly.

The truth of the matter is that nothing worthwhile in life comes easy. It takes a high level of commitment and dedication on your part to achieve an enviable height. One of the main reasons why people find certain courses difficult is because they enroll in a course there are not passionate about. If you enroll for a course, you’re passionate about, you might not find it as difficult as others find it to be.  

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Aerobics TV star and radio broadcaster Sue Becker's 'fascinating' life becomes PhD subject

In 1992 Rae Earl was a student at home in England watching a BBC program called TV Hell.

The show was a compilation of "diabolical moments" from British television history — programs that quickly disappeared into entertainment purgatory.

Featured was a show from 1972 called Boomph with Becker, an aerobics program for seniors presented by an eccentric fitness guru called Sue Becker.

"I was fairly entranced as much as the nation was," Ms Earl told Leon Compton on ABC Radio Hobart .

"It was pre-internet so you can't say it was viral but once you saw it a lot of people were talking about it."

Described by the BBC as idiosyncratic, Becker starts off in a green dress but is soon prancing around elderly people in a black leotard encouraging them to "boomph" with her.

"It's wonderful, it's so eccentric," Ms Earl said.

Thirty years later, and now an author, Ms Earl would begin dedicating her time to finding out more about Becker's life and writing a PhD about her.

She discovered there was much more to Becker than her moment in TV Hell.

A 'fascinating' life

About seven years ago BBC Archives shared the clip of Boomph with Becker again, and Sue Becker was back on Ms Earl's mind.

Ms Earl was now living in Tasmania, and discovered that Becker had spent a decade on the island as well.

"I couldn't find much about her, but the more I did find, the more interesting she became," Ms Earl said.

"I started to look into her life, she was fascinating."

Born in England, Becker attended the revolutionary I.M Marsh College of Physical Training in Liverpool.

"It was one of the first places in the world that thought women should be involved in sport and education," Ms Earl said.

Becker then travelled widely, and in the 1950s she moved to Papua New Guinea by herself to reportedly learn native dance.

She married the doctor who treated her for malaria and hepatitis and lived there for about six years, before getting divorced.

TV aerobics fame

In 1966 Becker ended up in Australia, and shot to TV fame through her own aerobics show on the ABC called Swing In Time.

"She wore diamanté fishnet stockings with a black leotard, her figure was to die for," Ms Earl said.

In the 1970s she took her manager to court over what she believed was an unfair deal.

It settled out of court but hampered her ability to work in the industry in Australia.

This led to the infamous one-off season of Boomph with Becker in the UK, which would be repeated for decades to come.

Just last month BBC Archives re-shared a clip from it and it received 380,000 views.

"She disappeared from view except for when she's been used as a joke, which I think is criminal," Ms Earl said.

Beckers Broadside

As well as her aerobics programs, Becker was on air for the ABC, initially in Sydney and then all throughout the 1980s on radio in Tasmania.

Her program Beckers Broadside was one of the earliest talkback radio programs, and one of the first with a woman hosting.

The hour-long program saw her interview all types in a very matter-of-fact way, including prime ministers and premiers.

Her signature deep, gravelly voice became an iconic sound across Tasmania.

A transcript shows Becker hotly debating Malcolm Fraser over the cost of living and interest rates.

"She is way ahead of her time," Ms Earl said.

"She's a talkback presenter in the 80s, and female.

"There were not many of those."

Ms Earl said her PhD would explore the relationship radio presenters had with their audience, and what happened when they were no longer on air.

"She allows me to examine women in the entertainment industry, it's also a story of empire, it's a story of post-war Britain and Australia."

Ms Earl also plans to write a book about Becker, and wants her to be remembered for more than Boomph With Becker.

"She's kind of been forgotten, and I think this is an act of criminality," she said.

"She was on air for the entirety of the 1980s so I would really like to get her back into the public consciousness.

"She's a protean talent."

Becker parted ways with the ABC in 1990 and moved to Queensland to be closer to her son.

She died in 2007.

ABC listeners remember Sue Becker

ABC Radio Hobart listeners shared memories of Sue Becker on the Mornings program.

Cathy: "Sue Becker, wow, a blast from the past! I was one of thousands who tuned in wearing my sports gear and joining in with exercising."

Melegueta said: "The way she was, she put a lot of people's backs up but in herself I thought she was just wonderful."

Mary: "She was dynamic, exciting. I had four children under five in the 70s so I was frantically busy but I wanted to be fit too. She was a real drawcard when I had time to hear her. I do remember her very fondly, she was an exciting personality."

Keith: "She was quite outrageous in some ways."

Kay: "I remember the husky voice, black leotard and colourful scarf around her neck."

Sue: "We were living in Port Moresby in the 1960s and 70s and Sue had a show on air on aerobics."

Ms Earl would like to hear from people with memories of Sue Becker via [email protected]

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the 13 hardest college majors to challenge yourself.

College Info , General Education

What are the hardest college majors? You might assume it's all those complicated STEM majors—and you wouldn't necessarily be wrong.

In this article, we look at the various factors normally used to determine whether a major is hard before going over the 13 most difficult majors based on how many hours students typically spend each week preparing for classes . We also give you a few tips for finding the right college major for you.

What Makes a College Major Hard?

Before we introduce the hardest college majors, let's clarify exactly what can make a major hard.

The problem with this concept is that there's no single, objective criterion we can use . What's difficult for one student might come totally naturally to the next person.

As a result, what are considered the hardest college majors can vary a lot depending on the student —specifically, on where your natural strengths and passions lie. If you're not particularly good at a subject and/or don't have any deep passion for or interest in it, that major will likely be harder for you.

By contrast, if you're extremely skilled at a subject and are committed to studying it, then you will probably find that major easier than you would other fields you have less experience with and/or are less interested in pursuing.

What I'm essentially trying to say here is that any college major can be hard based on how you define the concept of "hard."

Now, are there any objective factors that can make a college major difficult for students?

Most studies look at one critical factor: the total amount of time students spend preparing for classes in their major(s). The longer students spend doing homework for their major classes and studying for exams, the harder that major is considered to be, objectively speaking.

This is the primary criterion used by most websites and surveys, including the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) , which released data in 2016 that detailed the number of hours each week college students typically spent preparing for class.

According to the survey, "preparing for class" encompasses anything from doing homework and studying for exams to reading and writing .

Some websites and organizations consider majors hard based on additional factors, such as how many all-nighters students pulled or how high or low the average GPA for a particular major is (in other words, the lower the GPA, the harder that major is thought to be). Another potential factor to consider on a school level is how many students graduate with a particular major in four years; while there may be other factors at play, majors that tend to take students longer than the average bachelor's degree timespan to finish might be harder (or at the very least, more time-consuming).

Introducing the 13 Hardest College Majors

Even though what majors are hard for you will depend on what you personally find interesting and easier to do, there are some college majors out there that often require more study time and have more homework, making them objectively harder than other majors .

Below are the 13 hardest majors based on 2016 NSSE data shared with The Tab .

#13: Chemistry

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.06

Chemistry majors spend about two and a half hours per day preparing for class each week.

These students study the function, composition, and behavior of matter, and reactions between different forms of matter. They also look at energy. Usual classes required for the major include general chemistry, physics, biology, organic chemistry, calculus, and statistics.

#12: Neuroscience

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.08

Neuroscience majors spend 18 hours a week preparing for class, or just slightly more than what chemistry majors spend.

This academic field is all about the human nervous system, including its development, structure, and role, with focus given to the brain and its cognitive properties. As a neuroscience major, you can expect to take classes in psychology, biology, calculus, chemistry, and physics.

#11: Mechanical Engineering

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.11

Coming in at #11 is mechanical engineering, whose students spend 18.11 hours preparing for class every week.

As an academic discipline, mechanical engineering entails the design, creation, manufacturing, and analysis of mechanical systems — or, more broadly, anything in motion. Course topics for this major generally include physics, calculus, chemistry, dynamics and controls, thermal sciences, and design and manufacturing.

#10: Petroleum Engineering

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.41

Petroleum engineering majors spend around 18 hours and 24 minutes a week studying and doing homework.

In this engineering major, students learn all about the extraction and production of oil and natural gas. Classes required for a program in petroleum engineering can include properties of petroleum fluids, energy and the environment, reservoir geomechanics, calculus, geology, chemistry, physics, and petrophysics.

#9: Bioengineering

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.43

At #9 on our list is bioengineering. Students majoring in this spend just under 18 and a half hours per week preparing for courses.

Also called biological engineering, bioengineering integrates biological and engineering principles to create usable products, such as medical devices and diagnostic equipment. Classes needed for bioengineering majors can vary depending on the track you choose but typically include statistics, chemistry, biology, computer programming, biochemistry, and science of materials.

#8: Biochemistry or Biophysics

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.49

Biochemistry or biophysics majors come in 8th place for hardest major, with an average of 18 and a half hours spent getting ready for class every week.

Students majoring in biochemistry, or biological chemistry, look closely at the chemical processes and substances in living organisms. Biophysics is similar : it involves using the main principles of physics to study organisms and biological phenomena. Basically, the two fields are a lot alike and really only differ in their approaches.

As a biochemistry/biophysics major, you'll likely have to take classes in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, as well as specialized classes that cover topics such as genetics, cell biology, physiology, neurobiology, evolutionary biology, and computing.

#7: Astronomy

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.59

Spending slightly more than 18 and a half hours a week preparing for class are astronomy majors, who currently rank #7 for hardest college majors.

Astronomy entails the study of celestial objects (such as planets, asteroids, and stars) and related phenomena like supernovae and black holes. Students in this major typically must take classes in physics, calculus, computer science, astrophysics, cosmology, and planetary geology.

#6: Physics

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.62

Like astronomy majors, physics majors spend a little more than 18 hours and 30 minutes per week preparing for courses.

In a physics major, students learn about the movement and properties of matter through time and space, as well as the concepts of force and energy. Common topics covered in classes are quantum physics, electricity, magnetism, vibrations and waves, thermodynamics, and gravity.

#5: Cell and Molecular Biology

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.67

We are now entering the top five hardest majors! Cell and molecular biology majors devote about 18 hours and 40 minutes a week to class preparation.

An interdisciplinary field, cell and molecular biology combines chemistry and biology, which allows us to analyze cellular processes and understand the function and structure of life forms. Required courses usually include chemistry, biology, math, biochemistry, ecology, marine molecular ecology, and immunology.

#4: Biomedical Engineering

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 18.82

Undergraduates majoring in biomedical engineering typically spend a little less than 19 hours per week preparing for classes.

A subfield of bioengineering (see #9 above), biomedical engineering entails using the principles of engineering and biology to create quality products specifically for use in medicine and health care. Biomedical engineering majors take courses in chemistry, calculus, physics, engineering design, electric circuits, thermodynamics, and statistics.

#3: Aero and Astronautical Engineering

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 19.24

At #3 on the list of the hardest college majors is aero and astronautical engineering. Students in this major normally spend around 19 hours and 15 minutes a week preparing for class.

Aero and astronautical engineering comprise the two types of aerospace engineering : while aeronautical engineering involves the development of aircraft to use within Earth's atmosphere, astronautical engineering entails the development of spacecraft to use outside the atmosphere.

Students in these majors usually take classes in aerodynamics, gas dynamics, aircraft/spacecraft structures, aircraft/spacecraft propulsion, and space system design.

#2: Chemical Engineering

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 19.66

On to the top two! The second-hardest college major and hardest engineering major is chemical engineering; students in this field spend an average of 19 hours and 40 minutes a week preparing for class.

Chemical engineering is a broad subset of engineering that involves the design, production, use, and transportation of chemicals. It also entails the operation of chemical plants. Students majoring in chemical engineering take courses in calculus, chemistry, physics, biology, engineering, materials science, kinetics, and transport processes.

#1: Architecture

Average Hours Spent Preparing for Class Each Week: 22.20

Topping this list of the hardest college majors are architect majors, who spend a whopping 22.2 hours a week on average preparing for classes—that's more than two hours more each week than what chemical engineering students spend !

Architecture majors learn how to design and build structures in addition to studying the history and theory behind architecture. Courses needed for this major include calculus, physics, design processes, design theory, history of architecture, urban design, and art history.

How to Find the Right Major for You: 3 Key Factors

These are the hardest college majors based on the amount of preparation they typically require. The real question now is this: which major should you choose ?

This is an important question to think about, both before and while you're in college. So how can you make sure you're choosing the right major for you?

First off, don't be tempted to choose a major simply because of its perceived difficulty . Though it might sound impressive to choose one of the hardest college majors, if you're not passionate about the field or don't want a career in it, it likely won't be worth majoring in.

At the same time, don't avoid one of the most difficult majors purely because it's known as being one of the harder ones . If you're committed to pursuing a career in architecture, for example, then go ahead and major in architecture—don't pick something else just because you're scared of how hard it might be! Most likely, another major simply won't make you happy and you won't feel nearly as fulfilled had you just opted for the major you initially wanted.

Ultimately, there are three key factors you'll want to think about before choosing a major:

• Your interests and passions: If you are not genuinely interested in the major you've chosen, you'll likely lack motivation to keep up with your studies. Pick something that excites you on a deeper level.
• Your abilities: Ability matters because if you can't do something at all or do it well enough to be successful in it, then the major is likely not the one for you. For example, it might not be in your best interest to pursue a major in drawing if you have no experience drawing and aren't particularly skilled at it.
• Your career goals and interests: Although your major doesn't need to directly mirror your career goals, it should be at least somewhat related to your future aspirations. Don't major in biology if you're way more interested in becoming a professional violinist, for instance.

These are the main factors to consider before you commit to a major in college.

Note that it's OK if you're undecided on your major when you start college — not all schools require you to declare a major in your application anyway. Still,  you should definitely take some time to explore your options to help you figure out what your ideal course of study might be.

Recap: What Is the Hardest Major in College?

When it comes to the most difficult majors, what one student might consider difficult can vary a lot from what another student might consider difficult. This is because the difficulty of a college major ultimately depends on each person's individual interests and abilities .

Still, this hasn't stopped people from trying to come up with lists of the hardest college majors.

A 2016 study called the NSSE surveyed US college students, asking how many hours they normally spend preparing for classes each week. The study then divided these answers up by major to give a rough idea as to which majors generally required more preparation time than others.

We've used the results of this study to put together a list of the 13 hardest college majors based on the average number of hours students spent preparing for class:

When it comes to finding the right major for you, don't choose (or avoid!) majors simply based on their perceived difficulty . Instead, try to take into account your passions and interests, your abilities, and your career goals. These are what will help you figure out your ideal major!

What's Next?

You know what the hardest majors are, but what about the easiest majors? We looked at average GPAs to come up with a list of the 14 easiest majors .

Which majors are most likely to earn you lots of money? Get the answer to which majors are highest paying and which fields are the best for finding a job .

What are the worst majors in terms of salaries and employment? Check out what we've found in our in-depth post .

What are the most unusual majors? Learn more about which colleges have more out-there majors and which let you design your own path.

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

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Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

Robot farmers? Machines are crawling through America's fields. And some have lasers.

CHUALAR, Calif. – Looking like the ungainly combination of a Transformer and Edward Scissorhands, the robot slowly trundles across the field of tiny plants. It uses three high-resolution cameras to peer down at the ground below. 

Lit by synchronized strobe lights, an onboard computer creates a digital image of each seedling as it glides by, comparing them with all the greenery it might reasonably find in a field of rich Salinas Valley farmland two hours south of San Francisco.  

In a fraction of a second, there’s a match – broccoli – and the computer hones in on the exact center of the plant, creating an on-the-fly chart of its placement.  

“It puts a dot on the stem and maps around it,” says Todd Rinkenberger of FarmWise, the robot’s maker. “Now it knows what’s plant. Everything else is a weed.” 

The robot’s circular set of metal blades smoothly move so they’re right in front of the plant, then snick open and shut, precisely digging into the soil one on each side of the broccoli seedling, destroying the weeds while leaving the sprout untouched, ready to grow to harvest size in another month or so. 

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This all happens in a fraction of a second as the FarmWise Titan robot rolls down the field at less than 1 mile an hour. 

“It’s been quite a change,” said Luis Vargas, who started out on 20-person weeding crews in high school and now runs a fleet of four robot weeders for Tanimura & Antle, a grower and seller of fresh vegetables in California and Arizona.

“I remember being in the hand crews, it would be 10 hours days walking the fields. When you get into a super weedy field it’s slow, it’s hard. And it’s hot,” he said. “These machines, they don’t care if it’s hot or cold.” 

Farm robots could be good for human workers, farmers and the planet  

The scene in Chualar is being played out in a small but growing number of fields nationwide as robots using machine learning are deployed. Today, automated machines are mostly driving tractors up and down fields, carrying loads and doing thinning and weeding. Other systems deploy precise doses of fertilizer or herbicides. But harvesting, especially delicate fruits and veggies, is further off in the future. 

Together, machines are set to help solve a host of problems. The biggest is reducing the need for backbreaking agricultural jobs. Workers will still be needed, but more will be running the robots, fewer doing tedious, physical labor. It’s already resulting in a host of new jobs for people who can build, run and repair the systems. Community colleges and universities are busy creating programs to teach these skills to a new generation of agricultural workers. 

Experts say agriculture is a rare application of cutting-edge technology that workers, tech companies, the government, and big business are all to varying degrees optimistic about. 

READ MORE: Latest climate change news from USA TODAY

How does climate change affect you?: Subscribe to the weekly Climate Point newsletter

Another perk of robots, nonintuitive for people outside agriculture, is that they’re smaller and lighter than traditional large tractors. This means farmers can get working in fields early, when the ground is still too wet to bear the weight of large tractors and cultivators, giving farmers a longer growing season without worries about compacting and harming the soil. 

“This is important especially with climate change because we’re expecting wetter springs and drier summers,” said Steven Mirsky, a research ecologist with the United States Department of Agriculture. 

‘It’s a hard job’ 

Labor is a huge driver of the change, said John D’Arrigo, president of D’Arrigo California. His family has been growing lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower and broccoli rabe in California for three generations, and he sees his workforce aging out. 

“We’re cutting 1 million heads of lettuce a day and it’s a hard job,” he said. “The people walking in the fields, bending over cutting lettuce? Those people are disappearing, they’re retiring,” he said.  

Where there's caution, it's from unions that want to make sure their workers enjoy the benefits of automation and help decide how it's rolled out. T he United Farm Workers of America isn’t seeing robots displacing humans in the fields, said communications director Antonio De Loera-Brust. 

Its biggest concern is that the technology be deployed to make agricultural jobs better, not make them go away. 

“Is this going to be deployed to make farm work safer and take less of a toll on people’s bodies?” he said. “Or is this just going to be another tool to maximize profits on the back of farmworkers? We want workers to have a say in how robots get implemented.” 

D’Arrigo says agriculture has to make its jobs better.  

“I’m losing people to construction,” he said. “If we’re going to survive as an industry, we’re going to have to make jobs that are more lucrative and interesting.” 

More: In San Francisco, the cars are driverless, the humans are baffled and future is uncertain

That’s certainly been the case for Vargas, 27. His mother has worked for more than 14 years in the packing sheds at Tanimura and Antle.

Vargas went to college with the goal of working in criminal justice, but the new tech possibilities intrigued him. He started working on the first demonstration Smart Cultivator robot systems from Stout Industrial Technology in Salinas about four years ago.  

Today, the robot crews he manages can weed about an acre an hour. 

“For a hand crew it would take about 20 people,” he said.  

Farms are already more high-tech than you think 

Agricultural robots and automated systems are mostly invisible to people driving by a field, said Emily Duncan, an agricultural technology and innovation researcher at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. 

That can be as simple as a tractor or combine that drives itself along a field of corn or wheat or soybeans. Called auto steer, these systems use GPS and only require that the driver turns at the end of the row. 

“When you’re out harvesting 12, 13, 14 hours a day, driving for so long is really tiring. Using this, you’re mostly monitoring,” said Duncan. 

As of this year, such systems are being used in more than 50% of row crops such as corn, soybeans, cotton and winter wheat , according to USDA.

The next level up will be machines that use high-resolution cameras to see each plant and give it a precisely measured squirt of fertilizer, depending on how well the plant is doing. If it’s puny, it might get more, if it’s nice and robust, then less. 

In some cases, ag robots can do things that simply couldn’t be done before. One example is small robots that can navigate and weed under the canopy of a cornfield after the plants have grown high. Any weeds, even hidden ones, take nutrients and moisture from the soil that could go to crops.

“Now we just accept those weeds because we can’t get to them,” said Shadi Atallah a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where the robots are being developed.  

Robots could also make organic foods cheaper. Today organic crops rely on more cultivation and hand work than conventional crops because herbicides can’t be used, which makes them more expensive to grow. Robots offer an alternative. 

“Organic can mean having workers bending over the whole day just so somebody who can afford it can buy an organic vegetable,” said Atallah. 

In addition to mechanical robot weeders, there's the laser weeder from Carbon Robots, which uses 30 lasers to zap weeds or thin seedlings, with no hand labor or chemicals required.

One other place robots can make a big difference is in cover crops , the growing practice of planting things like winter rye, hairy vetch and crimson clover in newly-harvested fields to lock in moisture and strengthen the soil, then cutting them down to enrich the soil before planting again in the spring.  

Today such crops have to be sown after a field is harvested, or by airplane, dropping seeds from the sky. But robots can scoot under the canopy of corn, soybeans and cotton and plant cover crop seed before the main crop is harvested. 

“This will expand the ability to do cover cropping and take less time. It’s not reducing labor intensiveness, it’s using artificial intelligence technology to help with the sustainable transition of agriculture,” said Atallah. 

'Robot hands are getting better but they’re not there yet'

A stumbling block is finding tech people to apply their knowledge to agriculture. That’s one reason the Western Growers Association created its Center for Innovation and Technology in Salinas. 

But while it’s only an hour south of Silicon Valley, “there’s a real disconnect between people who work in tech and people who work in ag,” said Duncan.

The problems farmers face are difficult to solve and don’t offer the kind of global scale tech firms like. Each crop type can require a new solution. 

“I spoke to an audience of venture capitalists a few years ago,” said Neill Callis with Turlock Fruit Co., a fourth-generation melon farm in California’s Central Valley.

“I was describing the melon-picking problem and they were all ears. Then I said it’s really a $30 to $60 million problem space and you could just see the lights go out. There just wasn’t enough upside for them to raise the money and innovate to solve our specific problem.”

Today, interest is ramping up, as shown by the host of smaller robot startups launching. "Ten years ago, none of these people were here," said D'Arrigo. "Now there's lots of them around but we need lots more to get into it."

Harvesting will be the last problem solved, especially when it comes to fruits and vegetables, said Dennis Donohue, director of the Center for Innovation and Technology.  

“It turns out killing weeds is easier than delicately plucking strawberries," he said. "Robot hands are getting better but they’re not there yet."

It’s also got to become a whole lot cheaper. “Picking an apple for $20 is a non-starter. It’s got to cost 2 cents,” said Callis.  

A revolution in small farms?

In the end, robots could revolutionize farming, making smaller farms more economical and the entire industry more sustainable, changing an agricultural world in which the model has long been “get big or get out.” 

“Once you work with a scale-neutral technology like robots, you’re no longer saying you can only survive if you have the biggest combine. The question becomes, ‘Are you a one-robot farm or a 30-robot farm?’” said Steven Mirsky, a research ecologist at the Department of Agriculture who's building the public databases of images ag companies can use to jumpstart their systems.  

Startups like Farm-ng in Watsonville, California, are now building small, easy-to-configure robot platforms that farmers can add onto for whatever they need, which USDA is experimenting with, he said. Moving away from huge, massive, and massively expensive, equipment to light robots that will be modular and easier to fix can also enhance the kind of technical ingenuity that has long been the hallmark of the American farmer.

One thing Mirsky is sure of – machines will never entirely supplant farmers.  

“The farmer is the ultimate multifactor analyses machine,” he said. “You can’t replace them, you can only add capacity for them to do what they need to do,” he said.