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Future Students - Information For

Year 10 Students:
How do I choose a course?

Deciding what you want to do after Year 12 can be a difficult decision to make. A good place to start is to think about your interests and skills and what sort of occupations might be compatible; then you can find out what qualifications you need. The possibilities are endless!

Identify your interests, skills and personality traits

You should start by identifying your interests, skills and personality traits. Be honest with yourself and make a list of your:

  • Skills – things you are good at, like working with numbers, drawing, fixing things, being a good organiser etc.
  • Knowledge – what you already know, such as speaking a second language, or experience you may have gained in your part-time job.
  • Interests – things you enjoy doing in and outside school, such as hobbies, sports or studying particular subjects.
  • Personality traits – ask yourself, friends, teachers or parents to describe how they perceive your personal qualities.

Match up your assessment with possible occupations

Now match up your assessment with a list of possible occupations. For example, if you like being outdoors and working with plants you may wish to be a horticulturalist. If you like working with computers and technology, you may consider becoming a web designer.

Find out what qualifications will you need

So what will you need to study to work in these fields? Will you need to do an apprenticeship? Will you need a degree, diploma or certificate qualification? Will you need work experience?

Swinburne offers courses in both the higher education and vocational (TAFE) sectors. Qualifications, ranging from certificates, diplomas, bachelors, masters and professional doctorates to PhDs, allow you to choose pathways to suit your individual interests and career aspirations.

You can search for a course on our online course database or find out about our various pathways options.

You may also find these sites useful: