It's time to start thinking about your future career and planning what elective subjects to study in Years 11 and 12. We've collated a helpful guide on the dos and don'ts of HSC subject selection.
It is important to think about what subjects you enjoy and do well in when choosing your HSC subjects. You will spend a lot of time studying these subjects over the next few years so having an interest in what you are learning will increase your enjoyment, and you will be more likely to achieve strong marks. Your interests will also help guide you to possible career paths and courses to study at uni.
It's normal to want to give yourself the best chance of getting a high ATAR, but it is a myth that certain subjects will guarantee it.
Firstly, it's important to understand how HSC subject scaling works. UAC scales subjects according to the performance of all students that year, not whether they think a course is hard or easy. Try not to think about the ATAR when choosing your subjects and instead focus on what subjects will allow you to achieve a mark that best reflects your ability.
Assumed knowledge is the expected level of understanding you should have when you start a degree. While you can still get into a course without the assumed knowledge, it is best to have some experience in that subject, and you will know that you enjoy it.
If you are stuck on subjects, work backwards and look at which study areas interest you.
A prerequisite is different from assumed knowledge, you must complete any prerequisites to be eligible for an offer into a course.
We have mathematics prerequisites for some of our degrees, including advanced computing, engineering and pharmacy. To be eligible for a course that has a mathematics course prerequisite, you must achieve a required result in your Year 12 exams. For instance, in NSW students must achieve a Band 4 in Mathematics Advanced or Band E3 in Mathematics Extention 1 or 2.
If you are considering a course that has a maths prerequisite, we recommend you select maths for your HSC or equivalent. Choose a level of maths that aligns with your ability and future plans.
What you pursue in your HSC is entirely up to you, but your parents, career advisers and teachers may be able to give you some advice.
Talk to your teachers about the HSC syllabus for the subjects you're considering, and for advice on which level best suits your abilities, particularly with regards to maths and English.
Speaking with those who know you and your interests well can help you navigate the options available.
Your HSC subjects can help you achieve your goals, but they do not limit you to a particular career path or stop you from pursuing others.
There is always a way to get to where you want to go – selecting your HSC subjects is just the first step.