The choice of subjects by a student is a serious decision and must match the abilities and goals of each individual. The information in this site is designed to enable all students to make an informed selection.
To find out about recommended subject requirements for different careers, students should go to careercentral.co.nz and go to the ‘jobs’ title. Type in the job you are considering and then scroll down to secondary education
To find out about entry requirements for tertiary courses (university, polytechnic and private tertiary providers) go to studyspy.ac.nz. Study Spy is a digital database of all courses, providers and scholarships in New Zealand
Choose subjects that keep as many career options open as possible
It is important that students plan their course pathway carefully, gaining prerequisites for future courses and also keeping various options open for future careers and tertiary studies, which also can have subject requirements. If uncertain, students can gain advice from their tūhono and subject teachers and from the Careers Advisor.
Watch the Science subjects. These are the hardest ones to retrieve if you drop them or don’t choose them at school. A few key points are: - You must have studied NCEA L1 Science if you wish to take NCEA Level 2 or Level 3 Science subjects. - Achieving particular standards is recommended for some Science subjects. - Many Biology related career options also require Chemistry. - Mathematics and/or Physics are essential for many technical careers.
Check out the subject requirements or recommended subjects for tertiary courses, eg. a good Art portfolio on its own may not be enough. Perhaps it should be supported by studies in Design Visual Communications and Digital Technology. Alongside these subject selection issues, consider what employers prioritise now and also what they feel will be their needs in the future when selecting employees. Think about opportunities and courses which may assist you to further develop your confidence, ability and growth in these areas as a young adult.
Auckland Universities. There is an English language requirement to attend Auckland University. You must have 17 credits in English at Level 2 and/or Level 3.
Keep a count of your UE literacy credits. You will need 5 reading and 5 writing credits in order to meet the University Entrance literacy requirements. These can be achieved in many Level 2 and Level 3 standards from across the curriculum.
Suggested course selection reflective questions:
Do the subjects you have chosen reflect your interests, aspirations and strengths?
Do the subjects you have chosen allow you to continue with possible subject choices in subsequent years?
Do the subjects you have chosen keep career pathways open to you?
Do the subjects you have chosen enable you to gain entry to further study or the pathways you want to explore?