Choosing a course
Deciding what you want to do after Year 12 can be difficult.
A good place to start is to think about your interests, skills and what sort of occupations might be compatible; then you can find out what qualifications you need.
- Identify your interests, skills and traits
- Find possible occupations
- Research qualifications
- Useful links
Identify your interests, skills and personality traits
Start by making a list:- Skills
Things you are good at, like working with numbers, drawing, fixing things, organising things, etc.
- Knowledge
What you already know, such as speaking a second language, or experience you may have gained in a part-time job.
- Interests
Things you enjoy doing in and outside school, such as hobbies, sport or studying particular subjects.
- Personality traits
Ask yourself, friends, teachers or parents to describe how they perceive your personal qualities.
Find possible occupations
Match your list of interests, skills and personality traits 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.
You can also use our online course database to search for occupations.
Use the 'Career outcomes' drop down menu and see what course you need to study to pursue a career in your chosen area.
Research qualifications
Now to find out what qualification you need to work in your desired occupation.Will you need to do an apprenticeship? Study a degree, diploma or certificate qualification? Work experience?
Swinburne offers both TAFE and university courses, opening up a range of pathway opportunities to suit your interests and career goals.
You can search for a course on our online course database or find out about the Pathways Program.
