Welcome to the North-West University, where your educational journey begins! As a Grade 9 learner, you’re about to embark on an exciting chapter of your school life, and we’re here to help you make the best choices for your future.
In Grade 10, you need to take the following four (4) compulsory subjects:
- One Official Language: This could be your home language, such as isiZulu, Sepedi, or Afrikaans, depending on your preference and background.
- First Additional Language: This subject allows you to learn an additional language, like English or another language of your choice.
- Mathematics, Technical Mathematics, or Mathematical Literacy: You have the option to choose between Mathematics, which focuses on problem-solving and logical thinking, or Mathematical Literacy, which emphasizes practical applications of mathematics in real-life situations. Technical Mathematics is a practical branch of math that helps solve real-world problems in fields like physics.
- Life Orientation covers various important life skills, such as personal development, health and well-being, career guidance, and social responsibility.
Now, for the fun part! You get to choose three (3) more subjects from the NSC 20-credit approved subjects list below. Take your time, explore your interests, and capabilities, and select the subjects that resonate with you and align with the requirements for your future career.
Why is subject selection so important?
Subject selection plays a crucial role in shaping your academic and career path. From Grade R to Grade 9, you’ve been building a foundation that will guide your choices in Grade 10. The subjects you choose now will lay the foundation for your university studies and future career opportunities.
When deciding on your subjects, consider the knowledge you’ve gained thus far, your enjoyment of the subjects, and the skills you’ve acquired and wish to develop further. It’s important to assess the level of difficulty for each subject and ask yourself: Will I be able to excel in my chosen subjects?
By carefully selecting your subjects, you’re setting yourself up for success. They will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge in your desired field of study. So, take the time to make informed decisions and choose wisely.
How does subject choice guidance fit into the career decision-making process?
Subject choice guidance plays a crucial role in the process of making career decisions. It is essential to seek professional guidance to make informed choices. By consulting trained experts, such as career counsellors, who consider your interests, values, aptitude, and academic achievements, you can receive valuable insights and options tailored to your strengths and aspirations.
At the North-West University, we understand the importance of career guidance in conjunction with subject choices. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary support and resources to help you make well-informed decisions that align with your career aspirations. Through our guidance, we can help you explore various paths and discover the best possible options for your future
Interest-Index
The NWU Interest-Index is a great starting point to assist you in making informed decisions about your future.
Assessing your interests, the Interest-Index provides you with possible career options that can guide your study choices and subject selection.
You can also reach out to the NWU Career Centre for psychometric testing. This valuable service can help you gain insights into your aptitudes and strengths, enabling you to make more informed decisions about your career path.
Book a consultation session with Student Counselling and Development (SCD)!
NSC 20-Credit Approved Subjects (25)
Now for the selection part! Choose a minimum of three (3) subjects from the NSC 20-credit approved subjects that interest you and align with your goals.
- Agricultural Science
- Drama
- Music
- Visual Art
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Economy
- Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD)
- Geography
- History
- Religious Studies
- Information Technology (IT)
- Life Science
- Physical Science
- Consumer Studies
- Agricultural Management Practices
- Agricultural Technology
- Dance Studies
- Design
- Civil Technology
- Electrical Technology
- Mechanical Technology
- Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
- Hospitality Studies
- Tourism
Requirements for a bachelor’s degree:
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with an endorsement for a bachelor’s degree, issued by Umalusi.
- An NSC with at least 50% in any four NSC 20 credit subjects.
- The admission requirements of the particular university with regards to the language of learning and teaching (at least 50% to 70% in the language of instruction).
- The required Academic Point Scale (APS) or Cambridge level is determined by universities for specific study programmes.
- Subject-specific requirements for specific study programs (e.g. Mathematics 70% and Physical Science 60% for Engineering).
Compulsory school subjects required to study at NWU:
Language 1: English or Afrikaans
- Medium of teaching and learning.
- Compulsory for all programmes.
- 50% − 70% minimum accepted.
Language 2
Mathematics
- Compulsory for all BCom, BSc, and Engineering.
Mathematical Literacy
- Acceptable for all BA, BCom, and BCom Extended Degrees.
- BA Law: Math / Maths Literacy
- BCom Econ and Marketing: Math 50%
- BCom CA: Math 60%, Accounting 50%
- BA Communication Official Language 70%, 2nd Language 60%
Admission requirements
Please note the above admission requirements can change pending selection and possible faculty-specific requirements.
Study information is also subject to change, and this is a summary of the general fields of study. This information was compiled for introduction and orientation purposes and the North-West University accepts no liability for inaccuracies that may occur in this guide. The official yearbook of the University must be consulted in all cases during the process of compiling a programme for a specific field of study. Download the yearbook here: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/yearbooks
Please note that owing to specific capacity constraints, the University reserves the right to select candidates for admission to certain study fields. This means that prospective students who comply with the minimum requirements will not automatically be admitted to the courses in question. Because of the capacity limitations and the high demand for admission to particular fields of study, students will be selected based on their final Grade 11 results and fully accepted for admission based on their final Grade 12 results.