Many parents still believe that subject combination order does not matter, as long as the learner takes the right subjects. This belief was mostly true in the old KCSE system—but under the new Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, this has changed significantly.
The Common Question
As a parent you think that Biology, Chemistry, Agriculture are the same as Agriculture, Biology, Chemistry. Well, in CBE, these subjects may be the same, but their order sends a strong message about the learner’s career direction.
Yes, it is true that these combinations contain the same subjects. However, the order shows priority, strength, and intended pathway.
Think of it like a CV:
What you list first tells the reader what you specialize in and what comes later is seen as supportive. It is the same when it will come to universities and training institutions, they will interpret subject combinations the same way.
Read: List of Subjects at Senior School under CBC/CBE
What the Subject Order Communicates
1. Biology + Chemistry + Agriculture
This arrangement clearly shows that the has a strong science and medical orientation. Biology and Chemistry are the core subjects , Agriculture plays a supporting role. This combination is best suited for careers such as:
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Biomedical Sciences
- Laboratory and Health Sciences
This combination shows universities that the learner is inclined toward science subjects.
2. Agriculture + Biology + Chemistry
This arrangement signals something different: Agriculture is the main focus, Biology and Chemistry support agricultural studies. This combination fits careers like:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Agribusiness
- Animal Science
- Crop Science
- Agricultural Extension
This combination shows universities that the learner is inclined agriculture-focused careers, not medical.” Even though Biology and Chemistry are present, the learner is not treated as a medical-track candidate.
How learners are tracked in CBE
In CBE, learners are tracked early into career pathways. They are assessed not just by grades, but by subject hierarchy. Important decisions like University admissions, Scholarships and sponsorships are based on subject order.
Note: Two learners with the same subjects can receive very different opportunities simply because of subject arrangement. In the new system subject order is not just a by the way, it is a career pathway signal.
Best Advice for Parents
If the career goal is Medicine or Health Sciences, always place Biology and Chemistry first. When the goal is Agriculture or Agribusiness, place Agriculture first. If the goal journalism, place languages as core subjects. Additionally, always confirm the official subject code and order before final registration.
Planning early, asking questions, and understanding these details can be the difference between access and exclusion when university opportunities finally come.
Betty is a qualified teacher with a Bachelor of Education (Arts). In addition, she is a registered Certified Public Accountant. She has been teaching and offering part-time accounting services for the last 10 years. She is passionate about education, accounting, writing, and traveling.