Secondary schooling plays an integral role in a student’s growth. We make a lot of decisions in this time that prove to be the stepping stones for our futures, which is what makes this time even more crucial. Some important decisions we make at this time could be: what career do we want to pursue, what university do we go to, what degree do we apply to, what subjects do we need to apply for this degree, etc. We have to be very critical when we pick or drop subjects so that we can spend time learning a bit about the industry and field we think is meant for us. This particular thought can be quite confusing, so we’ve compiled a list for you to assess what subjects are mandatory or optional for the certain careers you want:
Law
If you’ve watched too many episodes of “Law and Order” or “Suits”, or maybe even “How to Get Away With Murder”, then you’ve probably dreamt of yourself in court, arguing about and so on, and now want to become a lawyer. The subjects that you take on in AL will heavily influence your decision. If you do truly want to progress to a career in law, then these are the subjects you should consider:
Useful Subjects
- Law
- English
- Government and Politics
Optional Subjects:
- History
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Global Perspectives & Research
Business/Marketing/Accounting
We all want to be billionaires, and be able to spend money without a second thought, and some people choose to pursue a degree in business, marketing or accounting to fulfill their dreams. Although Business, Marketing and Accounting are differing degrees, they usually have the same requirements for AL subjects.
Useful Subjects
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Mathematics
Optional Subjects:
- English
- Government and Politics
- Psychology
- Design & Technology
- Digital Media & Design
- Media Studies
Economics
Economics is among one of the fields that run a country and the world. There are many aspects to this field and the AL subjects you take are very important.
Useful Subjects
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Further Math
- Statistics
Optional Subjects:
- English
- Government and Politics
Biology
If you decide to pursue a degree in Biology, wanting to be like one of those cool Molecular scientists or Genetic Engineers that you study about, here are some subjects you should take on for AL:
Useful Subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
Optional Subjects:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Global Perspectives & Research
Physics
If you’ve watched “Big Bang Theory” and want to become a theoretical physicist like Sheldon, then a degree in Physics or Physics-related fields would be the way to go. Here are the AL subjects you should take on for this:
Useful Subjects:
- Physics
- Mathematics
Optional Subjects:
- Chemistry
- English
- Further Math
- Philosophy
Computer Sciences/IT
In the 21st century, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. We’ve incorporated some form of technology or some sort of computer (micro or macro) into our daily routine. If you want to be a part of the progress that makes the world in “Black Mirror” seem closer than ever, here are the subjects you should study in AL:
Useful Subjects:
- Computer Sciences
- ICT
- Mathematics
Optional Subjects:
- English
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Further Math
- Design and Technology
Engineering
More than ever before, innovation is valued for the impact it’s had on the world. For someone who thinks they have the capability to make advancements in creativity and practical solutions, engineering is the perfect option for a career. There’s many types of Engineering (you can read our blog about it here), however they all have the same basic requirements for AL.
Useful Subjects:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
Optional Subjects:
- English
- Design and Technology
- ICT
- Computer Sciences
Pharmacology
If you’re someone who’s interested in drugs (studying them!) and the effects they have on the human body, then pharmacology is definitely your calling! However, to study pharmacology, you need to study some of the basics. These are some AL subjects that would help you out:
Useful Subjects:
- Chemistry
- Biology
Optional Subjects:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Sociology
Psychology
Some people are born with the natural ability to read people, and figure out what they’re thinking or what their “story” is. If you’re someone who can do that, or someone who wants to be able to study to do that, then psychology is your best way to go. To start your experience in this field a bit early on, here are some subjects you can take on:
Useful Subjects:
- Psychology
- Biology
Optional Subjects:
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
