03 Nov 2022
Media releases
Trending fields of study for uni in 2023
HEALTH once again dominates the top spot as the favoured field of study among early bird applicants through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC). Society and Culture also holds its spot in second place. A breakdown of first preferences by field of study is below with a comparison to 2021.
Statistics based on the preferences of more than 63,400 early bird applicants show that 26.2 per cent listed Health as their first preference. Society and Culture – a mix of traditional humanities courses including law and psychology – received 21.3 per cent of first preferences.
A number of key statistical charts for this year, including gender, age and field of study analyses, can be found on UAC’s website. The table below shows fields of study selected by applicants as their first preference.
Field of study by first preference at 30 September 2022 – Early bird closing
| Field of study | Percentage of first preferences 2022 | Percentage of first preferences 2021 |
|---|---|---|
Health |
26.2% | 26.2% |
Society and Culture |
21.3% | 22.2% |
Management and Commerce |
11.3% | 11.2% |
Natural and Physical Sciences |
9.7% | 9.5% |
Engineering and Related Technologies |
8.9% | 7.7% |
Creative Arts |
7.1% | 6.6% |
Education |
5.5% | 5.9% |
Information Technology |
4.5% | 3.9% |
Architecture and Building |
4.1% | 3.3% |
Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies |
1.0% | 1.1% |
Mixed Field Programs |
<0.5% | <0.5% |
Food, Hospitality & Personal Services |
<0.5% | <0.5% |
*As determined by HEIMS
It’s important to note that these figures are as at 30 September 2022 only. Applications for university study in 2023 are still open and applicants can change their preferences at any time.
These figures do not include international applications or applicants applying directly to institutions. Percentages have been rounded.
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For further information (media only) email media@uac.edu.au or contact:
Diane Jardine, Communications Coordinator, UAC on 0436 459 603, or
Kim Paino, General Manager, Marketing and Engagement, UAC on 0409 155 112.