One of the most common questions from year 10 students is about prerequisites. There are no prequisites subjects for the Bachelor of Commerce course. Some other important questions from year 10 students are addressed below. 
- Why study at university?
- How is uni different to school?
- What does 'commerce' or 'business' mean?
- What are the course prerequisites (or admission requirements)?
- How do I decide on a course or subjects?
- What is the difference between university and TAFE?
Why study at university?
If you are thinking about going to university, consider what having a degree will mean to you. It will certainly increase your knowledge and skills in a particular area of study. It may also mean that you can pursue a career in your subject area of interest. A degree can also significantly increase your chances of getting a job. Nowadays, a university degree is required for most professions so getting a qualification will put you in a good position for securing employment. Think about it like this - a university degree is a good investment in your future.
How is uni different to school?
You will find studying and socialising at university a whole new experience, very different to being at school. To get an idea of the day-to-day life at uni go to a day in the life of a student or listen to our podcast where Ryan, a year 12 school student asks Jess, a first year Commerce student what uni life is all about. Jess tells Ryan about the campus, attending lectures, her teachers, and how much work is involved at uni.
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What does 'commerce' or 'business' mean?
Every workplace incorporates 'business', whether it is a school, or a government department or a global mining company. Business therefore covers a really wide range of activities, from hiring staff, developing advertising campaigns to building a computer system.
What are the course prerequisites (or admission requirements)?
There are no prerequisites for Curtin's Bachelor of Commerce, although a pass in TEE Applicable Mathematics or TEE Discrete Mathematics is desirable. Applicants without a pass in these subjects will be considered and if admitted, may be required to study Mathematics 105 in Year One of their course.
How do I decide on a course or subjects?
The things you need to think about are:
- Are there any subjects which really interest you or that you particularly enjoy studying?
- Can you find a subject area to match your interest?
- Is there a particular career you would like to follow? Do you need to study a specific subject for that career? To get an idea have a look at our Business Career Planner.
What is the difference between university and TAFE?
Both university and TAFE offer an excellent education and qualifications. But they are different and they each suit certain types of learners.
University:
- Qualification is an undergraduate degree.
- Three to four years to complete the course.
- Suited to those who see themselves working as supervisors and managers, professionals and consultants.
- Equips graduates to work as professionals in their chosen fields: students research, think through problems, come to logical conclusions and communicate these to others.
TAFE:
- Qualifications are Certificates (I, II, III and IV), Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas
- One to three years to complete depending on the qualification
- Completion of TAFE qualifications can provide an alternative pathway into university
- Students are trained for a broader job market, particularly in the technical, trade and para-professional occupations, such as medical laboratory technician, builder, enrolled nurse or childcare worker.