This article was written by Yzabelle Bostyn, a student writer based in Sheffield.

Key takeaways

  • Male-dominated degrees include engineering, computer science, and physics
  • Some industries aim to balance gender ratios
  • Scholarships may be available for underrepresented groups
Everyone says that the sciences are full of men whilst languages and the arts are full of women, but which subjects really are the sausage fests? We’re looking at the list of degrees with the highest percentage of male students released by Higher Education Statistics Agency, and how this might actually change in the future.

1. Engineering: 79.5%

Engineering: 79.5%
Source: Canva
It probably isn’t a surprise to anyone that engineering degrees are greatly male-orientated. However, as girls begin to overtake boys studying sciences at A-Level (49.7% vs. 50.3%), we would like to think that  the gender imbalance within engineering will change. Hope comes from Elizabeth Donnelly, CEO of the Women’s Engineering Society, who has said that the intake of women increased by a fifth between 2020-2021, which is definitely a plus.

2. Computing: 77.2%

Computing: 77.2%
Source: Canva
With an increase of a thousand new A-Level students studying computing, you might have thought that more women would be studying computing at a university level. At A-Level, the amount of women remains low, at around 2000 female students vs. 11 thousand male. The pattern repeats at university with Computing degrees being made up of almost 80% of male students. However, universities such as Durham are making efforts to increase their female cohorts by doubling their intake of women last year. Hopefully this is a trend we will see in many places.

3. Maths: 62.9%

Maths: 62.9%
Source: Canva
Recent studies have revealed disparities in not only the intake of women and men on Maths courses, but also people’s confidence level in the subject. Initiatives are being put in place to help women, as math degrees still have one of the highest percentages of male students; hopefully changing things in the near future.

4. Architecture: 61.5%

Architecture: 61.5%
Source: Canva
According to the Architects Registration board, as of 2019, the gender split between architects under 30 was exactly 50/50. This is a steep change from the 71% vs. 29% when all ages are considered. Hopefully, the rates of male and female students will also begin to even out and further contribute to the positive change already seen in the sector.

5. Physical Sciences: 56.25%

Physical Sciences: 56.25%
Source: Canva
Physical sciences include chemistry, geology, psychics, astronomy and more. This field is heavily male dominated with a 59.41% male student population. However, more females are taking subjects allied to medicine and related sciences.

6. Business and Management: 52.9%

Business and Management: 52.9%
Source: Canva
Although the gap is closing, more needs to be done to promote the role of women in business. The Women in Business Network is just one example of this. They encourage women to connect and provide positive role models for women considering this career path. We can’t wait to see a female Elon Musk on the horizon.

7. Biological Sciences: 50.3% per cent

Biological Sciences: 50.3% per cent
Source: Canva
Biological sciences such as medicine, biology and biomed, are steadily climbing with the number of women on their courses. Despite evidence that women regularly outperform men in STEM subjects, shoutout to all our brainy ladies out there, there is still a gender inequality to address. However, this could change soon as more females are gaining science A-Levels. Although this list represented the degrees with the highest percentage of male students, lots of other degrees are dominated by females.
Aminah Barnes
Aminah Barnes – Manchester Metropolitan University
Topic expertise: University & Degree choice, Applications, Travel and Student life

FAQs on Male-Dominated University Degrees

The most male-dominated degrees include Engineering (79.5%), Computing (77.2%), Maths (62.9%), Architecture (61.5%), and Physical Sciences (59.4%). These fields remain heavily skewed toward male enrolment, despite national campaigns to increase diversity.

These fields have historically been shaped by male-centric stereotypes and low female visibility in STEM. Educational experiences, lack of female role models, and industry culture all play a role. However, schools and universities are actively promoting gender balance through targeted initiatives.

Yes, many UK universities and professional organisations offer scholarships, outreach events, and mentorship schemes for women in STEM. Initiatives like WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) aim to encourage gender diversity and support women entering male-dominated fields.

Progress is being made, particularly in subjects like computing and engineering, where more women are enrolling each year. That said, the gap remains wide, and ongoing efforts are needed to create inclusive environments and challenge stereotypes from early education onward.

Yes, degrees like Engineering and Computer Science typically offer strong graduate salaries and high employability. These sectors are in high demand across the UK and globally, making them attractive options for students seeking secure, well-paid roles.

Authors

  • Aminah is a dedicated content expert and writer at Unifresher, bringing a unique blend of creativity and precision to her work. Her passion for crafting engaging content is complemented by a love for travelling, cooking, and exploring languages. With years spent living in cultural hubs like Barcelona, Sicily, and Rome, Aminah has gained a wealth of experiences that enrich her perspective. Now based back in her hometown of Manchester, she continues to immerse herself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. An enthusiastic Manchester United supporter, Aminah also enjoys delving into psychology and true crime in her spare time.

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