The Ultimate Grade 9 Subject Choice Guide for Architecture in South Africa
Choosing your subjects at the end of Grade 9 is one of the most important milestones in your high school journey. For many South African students, this is the moment you transition from “doing everything” to focusing on your future career path.
If you have a passion for design, a love for drawing, an interest in how buildings are put together, and a knack for problem-solving, you are likely considering a career in Architecture.
However, the path to becoming an architect in South Africa is academically rigorous. The choices you make now, in Grade 9, will determine whether you can even apply to a school of architecture after Grade 12.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down everything you need to know about choosing the right subjects to build your future in architecture.
1. Understanding Architecture: More Than Just Drawing
Before we dive into subjects, it is important to understand what architecture actually is. Many people think architects just draw pretty buildings. In reality, architecture is a unique blend of: Art: Creativity, aesthetics, and design. Science: Physics, structural integrity, and materials. Technology: Computer-aided design (CAD) and sustainable engineering. Business: Project management, law, and communication.
Because it covers so many fields, universities look for “all-rounder” students who are both creative and mathematically capable.
2. The Non-Negotiable Subjects
To study a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) at top South African universities like UCT, Wits, UP, or UJ, there are certain subjects you must take.
Mathematics (Core)
This is the most critical choice. To become a professional architect, you must take Mathematics (Pure). Why? Architecture involves calculating loads, angles, areas, and budgets. You need to understand geometry and trigonometry at a deep level. Mathematical Literacy? Most universities will not accept Mathematical Literacy for a professional architecture degree. While some Universities of Technology might accept Math Lit for a Diploma in Architectural Technology, it significantly limits your options and career growth. Goal: Aim for at least 60%–70% in Core Math to be competitive.
English (Home Language or First Additional Language)
Architects spend a lot of time writing reports, explaining designs to clients, and dealing with legal contracts. Why? You need to be able to communicate complex ideas clearly. Goal: Most universities require at least a Level 4 (50%) or Level 5 (60%) in English.
Physical Sciences
While not every single university lists Physical Sciences as a “must-have,” it is highly recommended.Why? Understanding how gravity, wind, and heat affect a building is pure physics. If you don’t take Physics in school, you may struggle with “Structures” and “Building Science” modules in university. Note: Some universities (like the University of Pretoria) strongly prefer or require Physics.
3. The Best Elective Subjects for Architecture
Once you have your core subjects (Math, English, a second language, and Life Orientation), you have three elective slots left. Here is how you should fill them if you want to be an architect.
Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD)
If your school offers EGD, take it. What it is: EGD teaches you the “language” of engineering and architecture. You learn how to draw floor plans, elevations, and isometric views using instruments and software.Benefit: It gives you a massive head start. You will already know how to read blueprints before you get to university.
Visual Arts
Architecture is an art form. What it is: Visual Arts helps you develop your “eye” for composition, color, scale, and perspective. Benefit: Most architecture schools require a creative portfolio for admission. Taking Art in school ensures you are constantly producing work that can be used in your portfolio. It also helps you think outside the box.
Information Technology (IT) or Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
Modern architecture is done almost entirely on computers using software like Revit, ArchiCAD, and Rhino. Benefit: Being “computer literate” is not enough. Understanding how software works (IT) or how to manage complex data and documents (CAT) will make your life much easier during your degree.
Geography or History
Geography: Helpful for understanding landscapes, urban planning, and environmental impact.History: Architecture is deeply rooted in history. Understanding how human societies have built structures over centuries provides vital context for modern design.
4. The “Ideal” Subject Package
If you want to be perfectly prepared for an Architecture degree in South Africa, your Grade 10-12 subject list should ideally look like this:
Home Language, Afrikaans/isiZulu/etc. (First Additional Language), Mathematics (Pure), Life Orientation, Physical Sciences, Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD), Visual Arts (or Geography/IT)
5. University Entrance Requirements (APS)
In South Africa, universities use the Admission Point Score (APS) to filter applications. Architecture is a “selection programme,” meaning they only take the best of the best (often only 40–60 students per year).
Average APS Needed: You generally need an APS of 30 to 35 or higher (excluding Life Orientation) to be considered. The Portfolio: Even if you have straight A’s, you might be rejected if your portfolio is weak. Most universities will send you a “Selection Part” or “Portfolio Invite” once you apply. This usually involves several drawing tasks to test your spatial reasoning.
6. The Three Different Career Paths in Architecture
Not everyone follows the same route. Your subject choices might depend on which level of architecture you aim for:
1. Professional Architect
Qualification: Bachelor of Architectural Studies (3 years) + Honours (1 year) + Masters (1 year). Focus: Design, theory, and project leadership. Requirements: High APS, Core Math, and Physics.
2. Architectural Technologist
Qualification: Bachelor of Architecture (Technical) or National Diploma. Focus: The technical side of how buildings are put together and making sure they meet building regulations. Requirements: Core Math is usually required, but APS requirements may be slightly lower than for the Professional Architect route.
3. Draughtsperson
Qualification: Higher Certificate or Diploma in Draughting.Focus: Creating the actual technical drawings and plans. Requirements: This is the only route where Mathematical Literacy might be accepted, though Core Math is still preferred.
7. Action Plan: What to do in Grade 9
Right now, you don’t need to be an expert, but you do need to be prepared. Follow these steps:
Check your Math marks: if you are currently failing Math in Grade 9, you need to get a tutor or work extra hard. You cannot drop to Math Lit if you want to be a professional architect. Research Schools: Not all high schools offer EGD or Visual Arts. If yours doesn’t, consider taking art classes outside of school or teaching yourself basic technical drawing. Start a “Process Book“: Buy a sketchbook. Start drawing buildings you see, sketching your room, or designing “dream houses.” This will be the foundation of your portfolio. Visit an Architect: Ask a local architect if you can visit their office for a day (Job Shadowing). See what they actually do—it’s 90% computer work and 10% site visits!
8. Common Myths About Architecture Subject Choices
Myth: “I don’t need Math if I’m a great artist.”Fact: False. In South Africa, you will not get into a reputable Bachelor of Architecture program without Core Mathematics.
Myth: “I have to be a master painter to get in.”Fact: False. Universities are looking for potential and spatial awareness (the ability to see things in 3D), not necessarily the ability to paint like Da Vinci.
Myth: “Architecture is only for people who take EGD.”Fact: While EGD is very helpful, many students get in with Visual Arts or even just strong Math and Physics marks.
Conclusion
Choosing your subjects for Grade 10 is the first brick you lay in the building of your career. If you choose Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and creative electives like EGD or Art, you are setting yourself up for success.
Architecture is a challenging but incredibly rewarding career. You get to leave a physical mark on the world that could last for centuries. Take your Grade 9 subject choices seriously, aim for the best marks possible, and start observationally drawing everything you see.
Your journey to becoming an architect starts now!