Basic Education
Key factors to consider when choosing subjects
Align with your interests and strengths
Keep your options open
Explore career and study requirements
Consider emerging trends
Choose subjects you enjoy and perform well in. Selecting subjects that spark your curiosity can help keep you motivated even when the workload becomes challenging. Reflect on your academic strengths – do you excel in logical subjects like Mathematics, or in creative ones such as Dramatic Arts? For example, if you’ re good at problem-solving, subjects like Accounting or Information Technology might be a good fit.
If you’ re unsure about your future career path, prioritise subjects that offer versatility. Subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, or Geography equip you with critical thinking and numeracy skills that are highly valued across a range of university programmes and industries. Avoid choosing subjects solely because they seem easier, as this may limit your opportunities later on. For example, many science and engineering degrees require Mathematics and Physical Science, rather than Mathematical Literacy.
Even without a clear career goal, it’ s helpful to research the subject requirements for potential fields of interest. For example, a career in medicine requires Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences, while law benefits from subjects like History and English, which emphasise analysis and communication. Check university admission requirements for programmes that appeal to you. Speaking with a career adviser or attending university open days can also help you understand which subjects align with in-demand fields.
The job market is evolving rapidly, with increasing opportunities in areas such as technology, healthcare, and sustainability. Subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, or Information Technology can prepare you for these high-demand sectors. Considering future industries can help you choose subjects that position you for long-term success.
It’ s also important to explore career paths beyond the traditional three- to four-year degrees. There ' s a wide range of options that align with industry demand and specialised skill sets. Broaden your research into higher education – you may discover the perfect path for you, one that might not even have existed a few years ago.
Aim for balance
Decide between Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy
Select a subject combination that challenges you while still allowing you to perform well. Including one or two subjects in which you can achieve high marks can boost your overall Matric results, which is crucial for university entry. For example, pairing a demanding subject like Physical Science with a more manageable one such as Life Sciences can provide a balanced workload, keeping your options open while supporting a strong Matric performance.
Choosing between Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy is a key decision. Mathematics is essential for careers in engineering, science, or commerce, while Mathematical Literacy is more suited to the humanities or vocational pathways. If you’ re uncertain, Mathematics is the safer option, as it opens more doors to university programmes. If you find Mathematics difficult, speak to your teacher to determine whether additional effort or support over the next three years could help you succeed.
“ When making subject choices in Grade Nine, it is helpful to start from where you want to be in four years’ time, and then reverse engineer how you might get there,” says Ntshinga.
“ Consult teachers, career counsellors, or student advisors at both public and private universities and colleges for tailored guidance. Teachers can assess your academic strengths, while counsellors and student advisors can explain how subjects connect to career paths.
“ Also consider going to university Open Days," Ntshinga adds. " Although you don’ t yet have to decide what to study, you are almost certain to gain highly valuable insights into your options after school, as well as helpful advice and insights from professionals on campus,” www. futuresa. co. za 29