Not sure what to study next year? 6 things to consider when making your decision

As final year students head into term three, they are increasingly thinking about what they will do next year. Throughout August, many universities hold open days to give students the chance to explore different courses and study options.

This is an important time for young people as they deal with the pressures of their studies and make decisions about what they will do after school.

If you’re still on the fence (and there’s still plenty of time left!), here are six things to consider.

1. There are many options

Your personal interests and abilities are among the most important factors to consider when choosing a college degree.

So the subjects you choose in your final year of secondary school can help guide your studies after school. Many high school students are familiar with the careers “bullseye” posters that help you see the connections between school studies, possible careers and the type of studies you need to get there. These posters cover a wide range of subjects, from biology to food studies, languages ​​and physical education.

For example, if you like math, you might consider studying data analytics, engineering, economics, or architecture.

At the same time, most careers can be pursued in a variety of ways. For example, many archaeologists do not necessarily excavate tombs in Egypt, but conduct surveys of heritage sites for construction projects.

If you have a specific idea in mind, or even a general area of ​​interest, talk to your university guidance counsellor. At university open days, talk to subject specialists about what they do in their courses.

2. High school subjects are not quite the same as university subjects.

Keep in mind that the subject you enjoyed in school will probably be a little different at the college level, or maybe have a different name.

For example, high school English is much broader than college English Literature. So if you enjoyed creative writing or essay writing in school, you might consider taking a creative writing or journalism class instead of college English Literature.

To better understand what you might study, look at the specific subjects involved in possible degrees and talk to academics (the people who research and teach at the university) and current students at the university at open days.

3. Think about your university and your course of study

In addition to your studies, be sure to consider any additional opportunities that a university might offer.

Do they have opportunities for study trips or a semester abroad? Do their degrees include work experience? Do they have social or sports clubs you’d like to join?

4. Remember that there are options for how you study

In addition to the subject, you will also think about where you study and how you will achieve it.

Not all students live close to their chosen university, where it is easy to get to campus. Moving can be expensive and we know that this is made even more difficult by the housing and cost of living crisis.

Full-time studies can be funded by the Youth Allowance or by ABSTUDY for First Nations students.

A full-time study load is usually eight courses per year. But many universities now offer flexible enrolment arrangements that allow you to spread your studies over the year by studying fewer courses over more study periods.

Another option is to study part-time. It will take you longer to complete your degree, but it will allow you to better manage your work commitments and your studies.

Remember that you can also look into online study opportunities and be sure to check out any scholarship opportunities you may be eligible for. Each university will advertise its own scholarships on its website and some organizations also offer scholarships for studies in specific fields.

5. ATAR is not everything

Students may be under a lot of pressure to achieve a certain ATAR. But missing out on the ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank) for a certain course doesn’t mean university is out of reach.

Many courses use other entry criteria such as auditions or portfolios.

Many students also use non-ATAR routes to university, including vocational, degree or bridging studies to university.

6. It’s okay to change your mind.

It’s common to start a course of study and then realize that it’s not right for you. In most cases, you’ll be able to change courses or majors within your current course, and sometimes get credit for studies you’ve already completed.