The QCAA develops syllabuses across a range of learning areas. You can choose from General subjects, Applied subjects and Short Courses.
Learning areas
QCAA senior subjects are grouped into eight learning areas.
- English
- Health and Physical Education
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Languages
- Mathematics
- Sciences
- Technologies
- The Arts.
Each subject syllabus details what you will learn and how you will be assessed.
A-Z senior syllabus lists
The QCAA is transitioning to a revised suite of senior syllabuses.
Revised Applied syllabuses began implementation in 2024.
Revised General, General (Extension) and Short Course syllabuses will be implemented from 2025.
A-Z lists of senior subjects are available on the QCAA website.
QCAA General subjects
QCAA Applied subjects
QCAA Short Courses
Senior syllabus development
The QCAA develops, approves and revises syllabuses for senior subjects. The syllabus for each subject describes what you'll learn and how you'll be assessed.
There are common factors that underpin QCAA syllabuses.
Senior syllabuses develop your subject-specific knowledge and, through teaching and learning, develop your literacy and numeracy skills.
Syllabuses also provide opportunities for you to develop the skills to help you thrive in work and life in the 21st century. These include:
- critical thinking
- creative thinking
- communication
- collaboration and teamwork
- personal and social skills
- information and communication technologies (ICT) skills.
Watch our 21st century skills videos to find out more.
QCAA senior syllabuses promote opportunities to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in teaching and learning.
Throughout senior schooling you'll develop your understanding and appreciation of the diversity of cultures and histories of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their contributions to Australian society.
