High credit subjects are 20-credit subjects in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) curriculum. These are the subjects that universities and universities of technology look at when deciding if you meet their entry requirements. Basically, they’re your passport to further education, so you’ve got to take them seriously!
What Do Universities Require?
To go to university, you need to:
- Earn your NSC.
- Get an achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or better in at least four designated high credit subjects.
Here’s the list of designated high credit subjects for university entry:
- Accounting
- Agricultural Sciences
- Business Studies
- Dramatic Arts
- Economics
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Geography
- History
- Consumer Studies
- Information Technology
- Languages (check specific university language requirements)
- Life Sciences
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
- Music
- Physical Sciences
- Religion Studies
- Visual Arts
What Do Universities of Technology Require?
For a university of technology, the requirements are slightly lower:
- Earn your NSC.
- Get an achievement rating of 3 (40–49%) or better in at least four designated high credit subjects.
Here’s the list of high credit subjects for a university of technology:
- Everything listed above for university, plus:
- Agricultural Management Practices
- Agricultural Technology
- Civil Technology
- Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
- Dance Studies
- Electrical Technology
- Hospitality Studies
- Mechanical Technology
- Tourism
How Do These Subjects Help You?
High credit subjects determine whether you qualify for a Bachelor’s Pass or a Diploma Pass, depending on your performance. This affects where you can study and the programmes you qualify for. For example:
- Maths and Physical Sciences are a must for engineering fields.
- Life Sciences is critical if you want to study health sciences.
- Business Studies and Economics are key for commerce degrees.
So, the subjects you choose now can open (or close) doors later!
Final Advice
If you’re aiming for university, pick your four high credit subjects wisely. If your goal is a university of technology, you’ve got more options to choose from, but they still matter! Talk to your teachers, career advisors, or even check with the institutions you’re interested in to make sure you’re on the right track.
Choose smart, study hard, and give yourself the best shot at your future!
