4 answers
Eljay
Student
Louis Trichardt, Limpopo, South Africa
1
Question
Asked
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What subjects must I choose to become a software engineer in South Africa
What Highschool subjects must I take to become a Software engineer In South Africa. I live in Louis Trichart, limpopo, South Africa, I attend Highschool Louis Trichart or Louis Trichart Secondary School.
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4 answers
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
725
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Eljay, I want to first thank you for reaching out and asking your questions regarding what you should study / take in high school to become a software engineer. I hope the information that I have below provides you some insight and/or help.
I am excited for you and encouraged by your wanting to have a future in software engineering. To establish a robust foundation during your high school years in Louis Trichardt, Limpopo, it's crucial to focus on subjects that resonate with the competencies needed for software engineering.
Begin by placing a significant emphasis on mathematics, the cornerstone of many technical fields. Physics is another beneficial subject, offering a basic comprehension of principles vital to software development. If possible, enroll in computer science or information technology courses for an early exposure to programming languages and problem-solving methods. These three areas, in my experience, form the bedrock of a successful software engineering career.
Remember, apart from core subjects, honing your analytical and problem-solving abilities is vital in software engineering. Your critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities are as significant as any technical or mathematical skills you develop. Engage in extracurricular activities related to coding or software development, and think about participating in coding competitions to boost your practical skills. Online courses or coding clubs can supplement your high school studies.
Keep in mind, the journey to becoming a software engineer isn't purely academic; hands-on experience and a genuine love for coding are equally crucial. Remain inquisitive, delve into various programming languages, and undertake personal projects to apply your knowledge. Lastly, seek advice from teachers, guidance counselors, or industry professionals, and consider internships or mentorship programs for real-world experience. By combining a comprehensive education with a proactive learning attitude, you can build a solid foundation for a thriving software engineering career in South Africa.
I am excited for you and encouraged by your wanting to have a future in software engineering. To establish a robust foundation during your high school years in Louis Trichardt, Limpopo, it's crucial to focus on subjects that resonate with the competencies needed for software engineering.
Begin by placing a significant emphasis on mathematics, the cornerstone of many technical fields. Physics is another beneficial subject, offering a basic comprehension of principles vital to software development. If possible, enroll in computer science or information technology courses for an early exposure to programming languages and problem-solving methods. These three areas, in my experience, form the bedrock of a successful software engineering career.
Remember, apart from core subjects, honing your analytical and problem-solving abilities is vital in software engineering. Your critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities are as significant as any technical or mathematical skills you develop. Engage in extracurricular activities related to coding or software development, and think about participating in coding competitions to boost your practical skills. Online courses or coding clubs can supplement your high school studies.
Keep in mind, the journey to becoming a software engineer isn't purely academic; hands-on experience and a genuine love for coding are equally crucial. Remain inquisitive, delve into various programming languages, and undertake personal projects to apply your knowledge. Lastly, seek advice from teachers, guidance counselors, or industry professionals, and consider internships or mentorship programs for real-world experience. By combining a comprehensive education with a proactive learning attitude, you can build a solid foundation for a thriving software engineering career in South Africa.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1849
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Eljay !
It's good to know that you have a career choice and want to prepare for it now. There are some classes I could suggest that will prepare you for further academic study and a career in Software Engineering.
My advice would be to take English, Math and Physical Science. Also any computer classes that your high school offers to prepare you for college. Although these are my suggestions, you must be certain as to what is required by the colleges. You can find out that by speaking with your academic school counselor or visiting the colleges and speaking with an admissions counselor. Any classes that teach you how to design, develop, maintain, test and evaluate computer software will be of benefit to you.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
It's good to know that you have a career choice and want to prepare for it now. There are some classes I could suggest that will prepare you for further academic study and a career in Software Engineering.
My advice would be to take English, Math and Physical Science. Also any computer classes that your high school offers to prepare you for college. Although these are my suggestions, you must be certain as to what is required by the colleges. You can find out that by speaking with your academic school counselor or visiting the colleges and speaking with an admissions counselor. Any classes that teach you how to design, develop, maintain, test and evaluate computer software will be of benefit to you.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
Thanks for the help.
Eljay
You are very welcome, Eljay !
Michelle M.
Karin P.
Lecturer
376
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Eljay,
For your course selection in high-school, for any science, engineering or medical program at university you need to take math (NOT math literacy), physical sciences and English. The mark required will be different for each university. The APS score required will also be different for each university.
If you want to be a software engineer, you have several options for your BSc, and requirements vary depending on which degree you want to target and also from university to university. So, you'll have to look up which programs a university has and then the entry requirements.
Wits, e.g. has BSc programs in Computer Science and in Information Engineering. You find information for Wits here:
https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/science/computer-science/
https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/ebe/information-engineering/
UCT has a BSc Computer Science in Science, Computer Science in Commerce, Computer Science in Humanities or Business Computing in Science. You find details here:
https://sit.uct.ac.za/our-degrees
https://sit.uct.ac.za/our-degrees-undergraduates/bsc-degrees
https://uct.ac.za/students/applications-admission-requirements/eligibility-admission
UKZN offers a degree in Computer Engineering. You find some details here:
https://engineering.ukzn.ac.za/eece/
I hope this helps! Good luck on your journey!
KP
For your course selection in high-school, for any science, engineering or medical program at university you need to take math (NOT math literacy), physical sciences and English. The mark required will be different for each university. The APS score required will also be different for each university.
If you want to be a software engineer, you have several options for your BSc, and requirements vary depending on which degree you want to target and also from university to university. So, you'll have to look up which programs a university has and then the entry requirements.
Wits, e.g. has BSc programs in Computer Science and in Information Engineering. You find information for Wits here:
https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/science/computer-science/
https://www.wits.ac.za/course-finder/undergraduate/ebe/information-engineering/
UCT has a BSc Computer Science in Science, Computer Science in Commerce, Computer Science in Humanities or Business Computing in Science. You find details here:
https://sit.uct.ac.za/our-degrees
https://sit.uct.ac.za/our-degrees-undergraduates/bsc-degrees
https://uct.ac.za/students/applications-admission-requirements/eligibility-admission
UKZN offers a degree in Computer Engineering. You find some details here:
https://engineering.ukzn.ac.za/eece/
I hope this helps! Good luck on your journey!
KP
I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Eljay
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6084
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Elijay,
High School Subjects for Becoming a Software Engineer in South Africa
To become a software engineer in South Africa, it is important to choose high school subjects that will provide a strong foundation in mathematics, science, and computer-related skills. The specific subjects required may vary slightly depending on the university or college you plan to attend for your software engineering studies. However, there are several key subjects that are generally recommended for aspiring software engineers.
Mathematics
Mathematics is a fundamental subject for anyone pursuing a career in software engineering. It provides the necessary skills for problem-solving, logical reasoning, and algorithmic thinking, which are essential in the field of software development. In South Africa, students typically study mathematics as a core subject throughout their high school years. Advanced mathematics courses can further enhance your analytical and problem-solving abilities, which are highly valuable in the software engineering profession.
Physical Sciences
Physical sciences, including physics and chemistry, are important subjects for prospective software engineers. Physics helps students understand fundamental concepts such as motion, forces, energy, and electricity, which are relevant to various aspects of computer science and engineering. Additionally, an understanding of basic chemistry principles can be beneficial in certain areas of software development, particularly when working on projects that involve materials science or computational chemistry.
Information Technology (IT) or Computer Science
Taking IT or computer science as a high school subject can provide valuable exposure to programming languages, computer systems, and software applications. These subjects can introduce students to the basics of coding, algorithms, data structures, and computer architecture – all of which are integral to the field of software engineering. Furthermore, gaining early experience with programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ can give aspiring software engineers a head start in their academic and professional pursuits.
Additional Recommended Subjects
While the aforementioned subjects form the core foundation for pursuing a career in software engineering, there are other high school subjects that can complement your educational background and enhance your overall skill set. These may include:
English: Strong communication skills are essential for software engineers who need to collaborate with team members and effectively convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
Design & Technology: This subject can provide insights into product design processes and principles of engineering design – valuable knowledge for those interested in developing user-friendly software interfaces and applications.
Additional Mathematics: If available at your high school, taking additional mathematics courses can deepen your understanding of complex mathematical concepts that have practical applications in software development.
It’s important to note that while these subjects are recommended for aspiring software engineers, individual university programs may have specific subject requirements or preferences. Therefore, it is advisable to research the admission criteria of the institutions you are interested in attending to ensure that you meet their academic prerequisites.
In conclusion, by focusing on mathematics, physical sciences, and computer-related subjects during high school, aspiring software engineers in South Africa can build a strong academic foundation that will prepare them for success in their future studies and careers.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Department of Basic Education (South Africa) - The Department of Basic Education provides official guidelines and curriculum information for high schools in South Africa. It offers detailed insights into the recommended subjects for students pursuing careers in engineering and technology-related fields.
Universities South Africa (USAf) - As the representative organization of South Africa’s public universities, USAf sets academic standards and admission requirements for various undergraduate programs. Their guidelines on subject choices for prospective engineering students offer valuable insights into university expectations.
South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) - The SAIEE plays a significant role in shaping the education and professional development of electrical and electronic engineers in South Africa. Their resources on educational pathways for engineering careers provide authoritative guidance on relevant high school subjects.
These sources were selected based on their authority within the South African education system and their specific focus on academic pathways related to engineering and technology disciplines.
Do not forget to look at my autobiography for a list of foods that are high in nutrients that support academic function. If you were deficient in several of these nutrients then by taking in the foods to supply the nutrients you'll replete the nutrients and this will result in an enormous increase in study acumen. Who is this new dux with the high distinctions!
High School Subjects for Becoming a Software Engineer in South Africa
To become a software engineer in South Africa, it is important to choose high school subjects that will provide a strong foundation in mathematics, science, and computer-related skills. The specific subjects required may vary slightly depending on the university or college you plan to attend for your software engineering studies. However, there are several key subjects that are generally recommended for aspiring software engineers.
Mathematics
Mathematics is a fundamental subject for anyone pursuing a career in software engineering. It provides the necessary skills for problem-solving, logical reasoning, and algorithmic thinking, which are essential in the field of software development. In South Africa, students typically study mathematics as a core subject throughout their high school years. Advanced mathematics courses can further enhance your analytical and problem-solving abilities, which are highly valuable in the software engineering profession.
Physical Sciences
Physical sciences, including physics and chemistry, are important subjects for prospective software engineers. Physics helps students understand fundamental concepts such as motion, forces, energy, and electricity, which are relevant to various aspects of computer science and engineering. Additionally, an understanding of basic chemistry principles can be beneficial in certain areas of software development, particularly when working on projects that involve materials science or computational chemistry.
Information Technology (IT) or Computer Science
Taking IT or computer science as a high school subject can provide valuable exposure to programming languages, computer systems, and software applications. These subjects can introduce students to the basics of coding, algorithms, data structures, and computer architecture – all of which are integral to the field of software engineering. Furthermore, gaining early experience with programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ can give aspiring software engineers a head start in their academic and professional pursuits.
Additional Recommended Subjects
While the aforementioned subjects form the core foundation for pursuing a career in software engineering, there are other high school subjects that can complement your educational background and enhance your overall skill set. These may include:
English: Strong communication skills are essential for software engineers who need to collaborate with team members and effectively convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
Design & Technology: This subject can provide insights into product design processes and principles of engineering design – valuable knowledge for those interested in developing user-friendly software interfaces and applications.
Additional Mathematics: If available at your high school, taking additional mathematics courses can deepen your understanding of complex mathematical concepts that have practical applications in software development.
It’s important to note that while these subjects are recommended for aspiring software engineers, individual university programs may have specific subject requirements or preferences. Therefore, it is advisable to research the admission criteria of the institutions you are interested in attending to ensure that you meet their academic prerequisites.
In conclusion, by focusing on mathematics, physical sciences, and computer-related subjects during high school, aspiring software engineers in South Africa can build a strong academic foundation that will prepare them for success in their future studies and careers.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Department of Basic Education (South Africa) - The Department of Basic Education provides official guidelines and curriculum information for high schools in South Africa. It offers detailed insights into the recommended subjects for students pursuing careers in engineering and technology-related fields.
Universities South Africa (USAf) - As the representative organization of South Africa’s public universities, USAf sets academic standards and admission requirements for various undergraduate programs. Their guidelines on subject choices for prospective engineering students offer valuable insights into university expectations.
South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) - The SAIEE plays a significant role in shaping the education and professional development of electrical and electronic engineers in South Africa. Their resources on educational pathways for engineering careers provide authoritative guidance on relevant high school subjects.
These sources were selected based on their authority within the South African education system and their specific focus on academic pathways related to engineering and technology disciplines.
Do not forget to look at my autobiography for a list of foods that are high in nutrients that support academic function. If you were deficient in several of these nutrients then by taking in the foods to supply the nutrients you'll replete the nutrients and this will result in an enormous increase in study acumen. Who is this new dux with the high distinctions!