Tauranga Boys' College follows the general framework of the New Zealand Curriculum (NZC), which specifies eight learning areas: English, the Arts, Health and Physical Education, Languages, Mathematics and Statistics, Science, Social Sciences and Technology. The learning associated with each area is part of a broad, general education and lays a foundation for later specialisation. 

During a student’s progress through the College, his Academic Tutor and Form Teacher will talk to him about courses and advise him on his selection of subjects. It is important that parents with questions and/or feedback relating to courses and options consult with their son’s Academic Tutor in the first instance.