How to choose a uni or TAFE course that’s right for you
Hey, you – future grad! We know it's a big and exciting year for you. As you navigate the mid-point of Year 12, it's a great moment to begin pondering what's next. Deciding on a career can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to plan your entire future just yet.
It's all about taking the next step and finding a course that excites you. Whether you're leaning towards uni or TAFE, here's how to choose a course that's right for you.
And while you're deciding, did you know that we're running three big Open Day events, across three separate campuses? Register now for your chance to see what life is like at VU up close and personal.
1. Figure our your strengths & passions
First things first: What do you love doing, and what are you good at? Make a list of your favorite school subjects, hobbies, and activities that make you happy.
If you're stuck, ask your friends or family for their input—they might see strengths and patterns that you haven't noticed.
2. Picture your future career
From your list of interests and skills, start brainstorming potential career paths. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Good with numbers? Consider accounting, business, IT, education, science, or engineering.
- Creative thinker or doer? Think about courses in writing, communications, media, marketing, graphic design, web design, music, film and TV, or beauty and make-up.
- Hands-on worker? Explore engineering, science, biomedicine, or trades like building, plumbing, electrical work, or hair and beauty.
- Tech-savvy? Dive into computer science, IT, engineering, cyber security, or screen media.
- Great with kids? Early childhood education, teaching, youth work, or social work might be your thing.
- Want to help people? Look into health, law, psychology, community services, education, nursing, or paramedicine.
- Love designing or building? Consider engineering, architecture, construction, building surveying, or IT.
- Sports and fitness enthusiast? Explore exercise science, nutrition, health, sport management, or outdoor education.
- Health-focused? Look into paramedicine, nursing, midwifery, nutrition, osteopathy, biomedicine, or speech and language sciences.
- Love traveling and meeting people? Careers in tourism, hospitality, event management, or cookery could be a perfect fit.
Need more options? Check out our huge range of uni and TAFE courses – including options for exploring all of the above.
3. Don’t stress about your ATAR
At VU, we believe your ATAR doesn't define your potential. Many courses don't even consider ATAR scores for eligibility.
Plus, there are alternative pathways if you don't meet the entry requirements for your dream course. For instance, if nursing is your goal but you miss the cut-off for a bachelor's degree, you can start with a TAFE qualification and transition later.
On the flip side, a high ATAR shouldn't push you into a course you're not passionate about. Just because you can get into law doesn't mean you have to. Choose something you genuinely enjoy.
4. Don't forget – it's not a permanent decision
Choosing a course is a big step, but remember – it's not set in stone.
If you start a course and realise it's not for you, or if you discover a new interest, there are plenty of options to switch paths. Many students change courses, and depending on the switch, you might even get credit for units you've already completed.
5. Go to open days
One of the best ways to decide on a course is to visit uni and TAFE open days. This gives you a chance to explore the campus, check out the facilities, and talk to current students and staff. You'll get a feel for the vibe of student life and see which place feels right for you.
Choosing the right course is all about finding what excites you and aligns with your strengths. So, take your time, explore your options, and remember—this is just the start of your journey. Good luck!
