Hardest Courses in Nigerian Universities: Top 15 Most Demanding Degrees Ranked
Discover the hardest courses in Nigerian universities based on workload, calculations, practicals, exams, and mental pressure. See the top 15 toughest degrees ranked and find out why they are so demanding.
Not all university courses in Nigeria are created equal. Some degrees demand extreme discipline, long study hours, complex calculations, intense practicals, and high mental endurance. These courses are often labeled as the hardest because students must combine theory, practical skills, and pressure packed assessments to succeed.
This guide ranks the hardest courses in Nigerian universities based on:
- academic workload
- difficulty of concepts
- level of calculations and science
- practical and clinical demands
- exam pressure and failure rate
- intensity of lecturers and professional requirements
Difficulty still depends on individual strength, passion, and school environment, but these courses consistently rank among the toughest nationwide.
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Top 15 Hardest Courses in Nigerian Universities (Ranked)
This list is arranged from hard to hardest, with number 1 being the toughest overall.
15. Economics
Economics is far more mathematical than many people expect.
Why it is hard:
- heavy use of mathematics and statistics
- econometrics and mathematical economics
- abstract theories and data interpretation
Students who dislike numbers often struggle badly.
14. Computer Science and Information Technology
Despite its popularity, this course is mentally demanding.
Why it is hard:
- programming logic and algorithms
- mathematics and discrete structures
- constant practice required
- fast changing technology
Missing one concept can affect multiple courses.
13. Mathematics
Pure mathematics is one of the most abstract courses in Nigerian universities.
Why it is hard:
- complex proofs and theories
- abstract thinking required
- little room for memorization
- poor teaching resources in some schools
Only students who truly enjoy numbers survive comfortably.
12. Physics
Physics combines deep mathematics with real world science.
Why it is hard:
- advanced calculations
- difficult theories like quantum and electromagnetism
- poor lab facilities in many universities
Many students fail physics courses repeatedly.
11. Chemistry
Chemistry demands both theory and practical mastery.
Why it is hard:
- chemical equations and reactions
- laboratory experiments
- memorization and calculations combined
Mistakes in labs can cost marks heavily.
10. Accounting
Accounting looks simple until the exams arrive.
Why it is hard:
- strict calculations
- financial rules and standards
- professional exams like ICAN and ACCA
Students must be very accurate at all times.
9. Actuarial Science
This is one of the most mathematically demanding courses in Nigeria.
Why it is hard:
- advanced statistics
- probability and risk analysis
- difficult professional certification exams
Only top math students usually succeed.
8. Architecture
Architecture is physically and mentally exhausting.
Why it is hard:
- long studio hours
- technical drawing and design
- structural calculations
- frequent all night project work
Many students barely sleep during project periods.
7. Law
Law requires extreme mental endurance.
Why it is hard:
- massive reading and memorization
- complex legal terms
- Nigerian and foreign case laws
- demanding law school training
One missed case can ruin an answer.
6. Nursing
Nursing combines academics with real human responsibility.
Why it is hard:
- heavy medical theory
- clinical postings
- emotional and physical stress
- long hospital hours
Mistakes can have serious consequences.
5. Pharmacy
Pharmacy is one of the toughest health science courses.
Why it is hard:
- heavy chemistry
- laboratory work
- precision based calculations
- strict ethical standards
The workload is intense from first year.
4. Dentistry
Dentistry requires extreme attention to detail.
Why it is hard:
- oral anatomy
- dental surgery
- clinical practicals
- early patient exposure
Students work with real patients early.
3. Veterinary Medicine
Often overlooked, but very demanding.
Why it is hard:
- long study duration
- animal anatomy and surgery
- fieldwork and labs
- wide range of species
It combines medicine and agriculture.
2. Medicine and Surgery
Medicine is famously tough across Nigeria.
Why it is hard:
- massive reading load
- long clinical hours
- high pressure exams
- strict lecturers
- emotional stress
Students study for six years or more.
1. Engineering (All Fields)
Engineering consistently ranks as the hardest course in Nigerian universities.
Why it is the hardest:
- heavy mathematics and physics
- complex calculations
- technical drawing
- strict practicals
- inadequate lab facilities in many schools
Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, Petroleum, Telecommunications, and Aeronautical Engineering etc. are all extremely demanding.
Why These Courses Are Considered the Hardest
These degrees share common challenges:
- massive volume of coursework
- complex calculations and formulas
- intense practical and laboratory work
- long reading hours
- high failure and carryover rates
- mental and physical exhaustion
Does Hard Mean Impossible?
No. Difficulty depends on:
- your interest
- natural ability
- discipline
- teaching quality in your school
- access to learning resources
Many students succeed in these courses because of passion and consistency.
Conclusion
Hard courses are not bad courses. They simply require more effort, discipline, and commitment. Many of Nigeria’s most respected professionals came from these demanding fields.
Before choosing any course, consider:
- your passion
- your academic strength
- your long term goals
With the right mindset, even the hardest course can be conquered.
FAQs
What is the hardest course to study in Nigerian universities?
Engineering is generally considered the hardest, followed closely by Medicine and Surgery.
Which course is the toughest in university?
Engineering, Medicine, Law, Pharmacy, and Architecture consistently rank as the toughest.
Are hard courses worth studying?
Yes. Many of the hardest courses also offer strong career opportunities and high earning potential.
What is the easiest course to study in Nigeria?
Courses in Arts, Education, and some Social Sciences are generally considered less demanding.
