Statistics from the board of studies in the Australian province of New South Wales show the number of students completing IT subjects at HSC level has dropped steadily for the last three years.

In 2003, a total 22,910 students in NSW completed IT subjects which include information technology, industrial technology and information processes and technology. This dropped to 18,268 students by 2004 and 15,668 in 2005.

One thing that has remained consistent is the small number of girls electing to study IT at HSC level - with 3804 selecting it in 2002, and 3642 choosing it in 2005.

On the flip side, business studies subjects have become increasingly popular. Only 5048 students chose business subjects in 2002, but that grew to 20,082 last year. Business subjects also boast a better balance between the genders (8956 girls and 10,012 boys chose business subjects in 2005).

A spokesperson from the Board of Studies said the board is unable to comment on social trends.