Choosing elective subjects in school is more than just a routine task—it’s a decision that can shape your academic journey, influence your future career path, and impact how much you enjoy your time in Senior High School (SHS). But with several options available—Science, Business, Arts, Technical, and Visual Arts—how do you know which one is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the right choice based on your interests, strengths, career goals, and more. Whether you're about to enter SHS or considering switching electives, this article will help you choose wisely and confidently.
🎯 Why Your Elective Subjects Matter
Your elective subjects can determine:
- What university programs do you qualify for
- What careers become open to you
- Your academic performance in SHS
- How much do you enjoy your studies
They are not just “extra subjects”—they are key stepping stones to your dreams.
🧠 What to Consider When Choosing Your Electives
1. Your Career Goals
Think long-term: what do you want to become in the future? Knowing your career interest helps you choose subjects that lead there.
👉 Example Subject Guide:
| Career Aspiration | Recommended Electives |
|---|---|
| Medical Doctor | Biology, Chemistry, Physics |
| Civil Engineer | Elective Maths, Physics, Technical Drawing |
| Accountant | Business Mgmt, Cost Accounting, E-Maths |
| Teacher / Lecturer | Literature, History, Geography |
| Graphic Designer | General Knowledge in Art, Graphic Design |
2. Your Interests and Passions
What subjects do you genuinely enjoy? Choosing subjects you’re passionate about can make learning fun and motivate you to excel.
Ask yourself:
- What do I love reading or learning about?
- What comes naturally to me?
- Which subjects excite me?
3. Your Academic Strengths
Check your past performance. If you did well in Maths and Science in JHS, you may handle Science or Technical electives well. If you loved Social Studies and RME, General Arts may be your zone.
Don’t choose a subject because your friends are doing it. Choose what fits your strength.
4. What Your School Offers
Not every school offers all elective combinations. Here are some common ones:
📚 General Arts
- Government
- Literature
- Geography
- History
💼 Business
- Business Management
- Cost Accounting
- Elective Maths
- Economics
🧪 General Science
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Elective Maths
🧰 Technical
- Technical Drawing
- Building Construction
- Metalwork / Woodwork
- Physics
🎨 Visual Arts
- Graphic Design
- Picture Making
- General Knowledge in Art
- Sculpture
Check your school’s prospectus or speak to the academic office.
5. University Requirements
Certain courses at the tertiary level demand specific electives. For example:
- Engineering: E-Maths, Physics, Chemistry
- Nursing: Biology, Chemistry
- Law: Literature, Government
👉 Visit websites like KNUST Admissions or UG Legon Admissions to find out requirements.
🔍 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing
- What subjects do I enjoy most?
- What do I want to study in the future?
- What careers am I considering?
- Do I have the skills and grades to handle the subjects?
- What are my school’s elective combinations?
❌ Mistakes to Avoid
- Following your friends’ choices
- Picking subjects just to look smart
- Ignoring your school’s rules on combinations
- Choosing based on pressure from family or peers
- Avoiding challenging subjects when you are capable
✅ Tips to Help You Decide
- Talk to teachers, academic advisors, or school counsellors
- Get advice from university students or professionals in your dream field
- Look at your BECE results and reflect on what you're good at
- Read the course requirements online from your dream university
📚 Example Elective Combination Paths
| SHS Programme | Common Career Pathways |
|---|---|
| General Arts | Law, Journalism, Teaching, Sociology |
| Business | Accounting, Banking, Entrepreneurship |
| Science | Medicine, Engineering, Pharmacy |
| Visual Arts | Architecture, Graphic Design, Fashion |
| Technical | Building Tech, Auto Engineering, Welding |
🔗 Helpful Resources
- WAEC Ghana – Official Site
- GES – Ghana Education Service
- College Desk Ghana – For past questions, materials, and GTLE prep
📢 Call to Action
Still confused? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Choosing the right electives takes time and reflection. If you’d like help or want to hear from seniors and mentors, join our student community today!
👉 Click to Join Our WhatsApp Channel
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✅ Conclusion
The elective subjects you choose today can influence the opportunities you'll have tomorrow. Don't rush your decision or follow others blindly. Take your time to reflect on your goals, seek advice, and choose what aligns with your strengths and future dreams.
Remember: choosing wisely now can save you years of frustration later. Let College Desk Ghana guide and support you every step of the way.
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