ST CIARÁN’S COMMUNIT Y SCHOOL
OMNES VIRTUTEM SEQUENTES
SENIOR CYCLE | Option Subject Handbook
FOREWORD
As you approach the important phase of selecting your option subjects for the Leaving Certificate, I wish to emphasize the importance of this decision in shaping your academic and professional future. It is paramount that you select subjects that align with both your personal interests and academic strengths. Engaging with subjects for which you have a passion not only enriches your learning experience but also fosters a deeper commitment to your studies, thereby enhancing your performance.
Additionally, consider how your choices will support your future aspirations. Opting for subjects that complement your future career choices will provide a solid foundation for specialised knowledge and critical skills needed in higher education and beyond.
I encourage you to utilize the resources available to you, including advice from our dedicated teachers and Guidance Counsellor, to make informed decisions that reflect both your capabilities and ambitions. Make these choices thoughtfully, as they are instrumental in paving your path to your future.
Cara McLoughlin Principal
SUBJECT SELECTION PROCESS
As you prepare to start 5th Year, the selection of option subjects is an essential process that will significantly influence your academic trajectory and future career opportunities. To guide you through this process, our school conducts an Option Subjects Symposium. During which you will receive comprehensive talks from staff, providing an overview and insights into the importance of your choices. Following this, you will have the opportunity to participate in rotational blocks, where you can visit different classrooms. Here, subject department teachers will offer brief overviews of each subject’s curriculum, helping you understand what to expect
from each option.
To finalise your selection, you will be required to complete an online form. This form will capture your preferred subjects, ensuring your academic path aligns with your interests and career aspirations. To assist you in this process, we encourage you to seek advice from your teachers and guidance counsellor, and to consider the subjects listed in this booklet.
Pat O’Sullivan Deputy Principal
SELECTION PROCESS
Symposium
Attend the Subject Symposium to receive insights and overviews from our teachers on our option subjects.
Rotational Subject Workshops
Participate in rotational blocks to explore subjects with department teachers detailing each curriculum.
Online Survey
Complete an online form to finalise your subject choices, ensuring alignment with your interests and career goals.
SENIOR CYCLE
Subject Choice
HOW MANY SUBJECTS SHOULD I TAKE FOR THE LEAVING CERTIFICATE?
As you enter the Senior Cycle, you’ll need to select subjects for your Leaving Certificate. These choices are crucial as they influence your options for higher education and future careers. At St. Ciaran’s, you are required to take English, Irish, and Maths as core subjects and choose four additional subjects. If you have an exemption from Irish, it will also exempt you from the Irish language requirements for any college or course needing it. Note that there may be paperwork
WHAT SUBJECTS ARE REQUIRED FOR SPECIFIC COURSES?
If you have a specific course in mind, then you can use Qualifax, the National database of courses, to research individual course choices.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DO NOT STUDY HIGHER LEVEL IRISH?
Besides forfeiting the extra points for an Honours Subject, not taking Higher Level Irish primarily means you cannot directly enter primary school teacher training in any Irish colleges. While there are alternative routes to study primary school teaching without Leaving Certificate Honours Irish, these options are typically more costly and time-consuming, and you will still need an H4 equivalency in Irish.
involved, which you should inquire about in 6th Year.
In the CAO system, your six highest grades determine your points for admission to higher education institutions. Specific grades in certain subjects may be necessary for some courses, but only your best six subjects count towards your total points. Additionally, scoring at least 40% in Maths (grade H6 or higher) earns you an extra 25 points.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DO NOT STUDY HIGHER LEVEL MATHS?
If you do not achieve at least a H4 in Higher Level Maths, you will be ineligible for 71 Level 8 degree programs, including many in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, and Actuarial Mathematics, as well as most degrees that consider maths a core component. If these career paths interest you but you only meet the requirement for an O6 in Ordinary Level Maths, you could start with a Higher Certificate or an Ordinary Degree. This pathway, requiring a secure grade of at least 60% in your exams, allows you to progress to an Ordinary Degree and eventually to a Higher Degree program. Typically, this route only adds one extra year compared to entering a Higher Degree program directly.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I DO NOT STUDY A MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGE?
Colleges such as UCD, UCG, UCC, and Maynooth University, generally require a pass in a third language for entry into many of their courses. However, this requirement is waived for their Science and Engineering programs among others, so it’s worth checking. Nursing and Primary School Teaching programs do not require a third language. Additionally, a third language is necessary for entry into cadetships in the Army or Air Corps. Trinity College Dublin counts Irish as fulfilling their second language requirement. Conversely, the University of Limerick, Dublin City University, and all Technical Universities do not require a modern language for entry into their courses.
WHAT COMBINATIONS OF SUBJECTS SHOULD YOU AIM FOR?
When selecting your subjects, aim for a balanced range to keep your career options open as long as possible. While many students already have a specific career in mind and understand their requirements, most will take Irish (unless exempted), English, and Maths, and often a modern language. For your remaining three subjects, consider using the course search function online to research specific course requirements; this information is accessible at www.qualifax.ie. It’s wise to distribute your choices across Business, Science, Arts, and Practical subjects, taking into account your previous exam results.
ONLINE SURVEY
No student may choose the same subject twice. Each student must also pick a reserve subject.
This completed must be returned to the school completed by April 29th.
CORE SUBJECTS: LEVELS
Furthermore, our students are also given the option to choose LCVP. In addition, students are also asked to choose their preference for Higher and Ordinary Level in English, Irish and Math’s.
SUBJECTS
OPTION BLOCKS
Choose one subject per block
CONSTRUCTION STUDIES
Leaving Certificate Construction Studies provides students in the senior cycle of post-primary education with an introduction to the knowledge and skills involved in construction technology and construction materials and processes.
Why Study Construction Studies?
This practical subject gives students hands-on experience working with tools and machinery. Students also undertake theoretical and background work for their final examinations which provides the students with useful skills for working in the sector.
Career Path
Studying this subject will be useful for anyone thinking of working and studying in the following areas: building management, carpentry, electrician, town planning, insurance claims, heating and ventilation and housing management.
Course Content
The course is about the study of buildings and the built environment. The theoretical part of the course examines all parts of a building from the planning stages to the completed building. Topics taught include: Planning and Design, Drawings and Documents and Site Preliminaries and Foundations among others
Would Construction Studies suit me?
It is recommended that a student taking Leaving Certificate Construction Studies has a general interest in buildings and the built environment. Each student should have an aptitude for, and an interest in design and practical work.
Assessment & Exam Structure
Written Paper – 50%
Higher Level
Practical Examination – 25%
Project – 25%
Written Paper – 40%
Ordinary Level
Practical Examination – 30%
Project – 30%
SUBJECT NAME:
ENGINEERING
Why Study Engineering?
This practical subject gives students hands-on experience of working with tools and machinery. Students also undertake theoretical and background work for their final examinations which provides useful skills for those considering a career in the sector.
Would Engineering suit me?
Each student should have an aptitude for and an interest in design and practical work. This subject follows on from Junior Cycle Engineering.
Career Path
Engineering is useful for the following careers: mechanic, panel beater, welder, plumber, electronic and mechanical engineering, architecture, aircraft technician, army/air corps and industrial design.
Course Content
Engineering promotes an understanding of the materials, and a knowledge of the processes associated with mechanical engineering. Topics taught include Health and Safety, Benchwork, Classification and Origin of Metals among others
Assessment & Exam Structure
Written Paper – 50%
Higher Level
Practical Examination – 25%
Project – 25%
Written Paper – 40%
Ordinary Level
Practical Examination – 30%
Project – 30%
SUBJECT NAME:
ART
The Art course for Leaving Cert is about developing the student’s ability in a range of artistic fields and disciplines. The syllabus permits a huge number of media, from the fine arts such as sculpture, drawing, and painting, to puppet-making, embroidery, calligraphy, metalwork, and pottery.
Why Study Art?
If you want to study more in an artistic area, you can continue in Fine Art and specialise in painting, sculpting or printmaking. Alternatively, you could go into the design area and specialise in areas such as fashion, graphic, interior or furniture design. Studying art, as the title suggests, allows students to be creative and explore their desire for self-expression and develop an appreciation for artistic work of others, including the work of famous artists and the history of art.
Course Content
All students, both ordinary and higher level, follow a common course. The practical work can include Life Sketching, Still Life, Imaginative Composition, Design and Craftwork. The History of Art and Appreciation is a broad course covering Irish and European Art, and also Art Appreciation. It requires looking at artworks through the use of reproductions, slides and art galleries, reading books and writing essays on different subjects
Art is ideal for students with a talent for it, such as those who earned high grades in Junior Cycle. It suits those interested in creative careers like Architecture, Marketing, or Game Design. Students who struggle with subjects like languages or maths may find it easier to earn points in Art. Those who enjoy sketching and expressing themselves creatively will benefit, but dedication is essential. Art also offers a break from memory-heavy subjects and reduces exam pressure in June with practical exams in April or May
Career Path
Art is useful for careers in animation, art teaching, computer design, architecture, fashion design, interior design, graphic design, painting and decorating, photography and art therapy.
Assessment & Exam Structure
Higher Level
Ordinary Level
Written Paper – 30% Project – 50%
Practical Exam – 20%
Written Paper – 30% Project – 50%
Practical Exam – 20%
Would Art suit me?
DESIGN & COMMUNICATION GRAPHICS
This subject develops students’ comprehension ability, and problem solving and creative thinking skills are developed through the analysis and solution of both 2 and 3-dimensional graphics. Graphics and design are communicated using freehand sketching skills, traditional draughting equipment and CAD.
Why Study Design & Communication Graphics?
Design & Communication Graphics helps to further students’ cognitive and practical skills with modules like graphic communication, problem solving, spatial visualisation, design capabilities, computer graphics and much more.
Would Design & Communication Graphics suit me?
Students who have studied Graphics at Junior Cycle level or have a strong interest in practical fields like engineering, construction, or apprenticeships involving technical drawings.
Career Path
DCG is a core element of many third level options including: Engineering, Product Design, Construction and Architecture. Knowledge of this subject will greatly enhance a student’s ability in any third level engineering-based programme. Other relevant career areas include: toolmaker, engineering technician, and carpentry and aircraft technicians
Course Content
The course consists of two parts: Core Areas of Study and Optional Areas of Study. The Core Areas include Plane and Descriptive Geometry, covering topics like project systems, plane geometry, conic sections, and surface development. It also includes Communication of Design and Computer Graphics, focusing on design communication, freehand drawing, and ICT.
Assessment & Exam Structure
SUBJECT NAME:
HISTORY
History explores past events, focusing on how and why they occurred through the analysis of evidence. It connects students with diverse human experiences, deepening their understanding of human nature and motivation.
Why Study History?
By evaluating evidence, history enhances critical thinking, while research fosters independent learning. Studied both for personal interest and skill development, it provides lifelong benefits.
Course Content
The Leaving Cert History syllabus offers a choice of four topics from 12 in modern Irish and European history. These are divided into two fields: Early Modern (1492-1815) and Later Modern (1815-1993). Students study two Irish history topics and two European/ world history topics from their chosen field. One prescribed topic from each field is documents-based, and students will analyse the one from their selected field. Additionally, students complete a Research Study, a self-chosen historical investigation submitted before Easter, contributing 20% of the final grade.
Would History suit me?
Leaving Cert History is an excellent choice for students who have a passion for the past and want to deepen their understanding of historical events and their impact. It is particularly suited to those with strong English skills, a good memory for detail, and an interest in writing. The subject also helps develop valuable skills such as critical thinking, research, and self-discipline—essential for both academic success and future careers
Career Path
History fosters independent thinking and is valuable for third-level education. It is relevant to careers in journalism, media, law, politics, economics, sociology, and the arts. It also provides a strong foundation for roles in administration, management, business, tourism, government, and teaching.
Assessment & Exam Structure
Higher Level
Ordinary Level
Written Paper – 80% Research Project – 20%
Written Paper – 80% Research Project – 20%
SUBJECT NAME:
GEOGRAPHY
Geography is the study of people, their environment, and the interaction between the two. The course follows from Junior Cycle Geography, and covers very similar topics (such as rocks, soils, oceans, population movements, map-reading, and economic activities) in a lot more detail.
Why Study Geography?
Geography is a very popular subject choice. Up to 20% of the final grade is achieved before sitting the actual examination by completing a report on a geographical investigation - this is a great advantage for students.
Would Geography suit me?
This subject is ideal for students interested in further studies in geography, economics, environmental science, or politics. It is also well suited for those who performed well in Junior Cycle Geography.
Career Path
Geography can be studied at third level as a science subject, or as an arts subject. It is useful in a wide variety of careers such as cartography, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), town planning, environmental science, engineering, travel/tourism, meteorology/weather forecasting and in global/development work.
Course Content
The Geography syllabus includes Core Units 1-3 and Elective Unit 4. Core Unit 1 covers physical processes like the tectonic and rock cycles. Core Unit 2 explores regional geography, while Core Unit 3 focuses on investigation skills through an individual project. Elective Unit 4 examines economic patterns and global interdependence.
Higher Level students also study Optional Unit 6: Global Interdependence, analysing global economic, social, and political links. Throughout the course, students develop Geographical Skills such as map reading, satellite image analysis, data interpretation, and weather mapping.
Assessment & Exam Structure
SUBJECT NAME:
FRENCH
French as a Leaving Certificate subject aims to bring students closer to fluency in the French language, as well as developing a good knowledge of literature, culture, geography and national history, in order to provide a context for communication. Senior Cycle French builds on the knowledge acquired from the Junior Cycle.
Why Study French?
This subject may be a requirement for entry to third level and can be used as a third language for entry to a number of courses. This subject is a useful foundation for students with an interest in studying French at third level or considering a career in a French speaking environment or country.
Would French suit me?
French is a great choice for anyone with an interest in French culture, history, and language. It is particularly beneficial for students considering careers in France, Canada, the EU, or international relations. Additionally, those who already speak French can find it an easier way to earn points
Career Path
Specific careers in which French is of benefit include: Teaching; Translation; Interpreting; Linguistics; Localisation; Journalism and Media among others.
Course Content
The course content for both Higher and Ordinary levels is similar, but oral and written skills are especially important at Higher Level. Typically, a minimum of a Merit at Junior Cycle is recommended for students continuing at this level for the Leaving Certificate. Modern languages require proficiency in key skills, including speaking, writing, listening, and reading. Throughout the course, students will explore a range of themes such as family, school, hobbies, sport, and current affairs.
Assessment & Exam Structure
SUBJECT NAME:
GERMAN
German as a Leaving Certificate subject aims to bring students closer to fluency in the German language, as well as developing a good knowledge of literature, culture, geography, and national history to provide a context for communication.
Why Study German?
Germany plays a major role in the European context, and after English, German is the most spoken language in the European Union and the tenth most spoken language in the world. German offers significant career value for the years ahead.
Career Path
Germany is one of Ireland’s leading trading partners and Irish companies need professionals with a good knowledge of German. Germany is also the world’s largest outbound market and is the third most important market for visitors to Ireland. As such, the language would be very useful in a range of career areas: Tourism, Hospitality, Food and Wine, Sales and Marketing, Teaching, Engineering, Finance, Technology and the Public Service.
Would German suit me?
German is a great choice for anyone interested in German culture, history, and language. It is particularly useful for students considering careers in Germany, Austria, or international relations. Additionally, those who already speak German may find it an easier way to earn points.
Course Content
Modern languages require proficiency in key skills. Oral proficiency covers personal, social, and cultural topics, while aural proficiency involves understanding and responding to auditory material. Comprehension proficiency focuses on reading and interpreting texts, and written production requires grammatically correct responses to various stimuli, such as letters or opinion pieces. Themes include family, school, hobbies, sport, and current affairs, with grammar and cultural awareness being essential throughout the course.
Assessment & Exam Structure
SUBJECT NAME:
BIOLOGY
The new Senior Cycle Biology course offers a hands-on and modern approach to studying life. You’ll explore genetics, evolution, respiration, ecology, and biotechnology, with a focus on practical experiments and digital technology.
Why Study Biology?
Biology is a popular subject that explores the study of life. Many college courses require at least one science subject, making Biology a smart choice to keep your options open. It is especially useful for careers in medicine, nursing, and healthcare.
Would Biology suit me?
Biology is a popular subject that explores the study of life. Many college courses require at least one science subject, making Biology a smart choice to keep your options open. It is especially useful for careers in medicine, nursing, and healthcare.
Career Path
Biology provides a strong foundation for careers in science, engineering, technology, and business, as well as fields like biomedical, environmental, agricultural, and forensic sciences. Studying Biology is also beneficial for careers in veterinary, dentistry, ecology, genetics, marine science, psychology, teaching, and research
Course Content
The new Senior Cycle Biology course, explores life through four key strands. Nature of Science develops inquiry and critical thinking, while Organisation of Life covers cells, genetics, and evolution. Structures and Processes of Life examines respiration, photosynthesis, and reproduction, and Interactions of Life focuses on ecology, biodiversity, and biotechnology.
SUBJECT NAME:
CHEMISTRY
Studying chemistry involves understanding how the invisible world of atoms and molecules makes up the visible world we see around us. As an area of scientific study, it explains how all matter in the universe behaves and interacts by developing an understanding of how atoms and molecules behave and interact.
Why Study Chemistry?
Chemistry builds a strong foundation for work, further education, and higher studies, opening opportunities in biotechnology, environmental and forensic science, engineering, medicine, agriculture, business, and finance
Would Chemistry suit me?
The subject suits students with attention to detail and an interest in experiments and scientific vocabulary. It’s especially useful for careers in science, medicine, and engineering while also developing problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills valuable for any future path
Course Content
The new Senior Cycle Chemistry course explores atomic structure, bonding, reactions, equilibrium, and real-world applications like environmental science and energy. With hands-on learning and digital tools, it develops inquiry skills and prepares students for careers in science, engineering, and healthcare
Career Path
Chemistry is considered extremely useful for a wide range of career areas such as: Pharmacy, Ag Science, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Engineering, General Sciences, Dietician, Nursing, Food Science, Biotechnology and Medical Laboratory Technology.
SUBJECT NAME:
Physics explores how matter and energy interact, from subatomic particles to galaxies, using observation, measurement, and experimentation to develop fundamental laws. It is a progressive and dynamic subject, where new discoveries answer questions but also spark new ones, making it both exciting and ever evolving.
Why Study Physics?
Physics teaches students to think logically and enables them to express their thoughts in a concise manner. The skills and knowledge developed through their study of physics can be useful in a wide variety of situations.
The course develops graphing skills, calculator use, and logical thinking, with strong links to chemistry, woodwork, and construction. It suits students interested in science and how things work, while also building problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills useful for any future study or career.
Career Path
Physics provides a strong foundation for science, engineering, technology, and business careers. It develops logical thinking and numeracy skills, benefiting many technical courses and career paths in medicine, computer science, and finance.
Course Content
The new Senior Cycle Physics course covers scientific inquiry, forces and motion, waves, electromagnetism, and modern physics, including quantum mechanics and radioactivity. With a focus on hands-on learning and real-world applications, it prepares students for careers in science, engineering, and technology.
AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
Agricultural science is the study of the science and technology underlying the principles and practices of agriculture. Plants and animal types associated with agriculture are studied, and investigations are undertaken into such aspects as soil, ecology, plant and animal physiology, farm crops, farming practices, genetics and microbiology.
Why Study Agricultural Science?
Agricultural Science remains a very popular subject among students in Ireland and reflects our agricultural background. This subject proves popular among students who are planning to study Veterinary Science, Science or Medicine in college.
Course Content
The course consists of the study of a variety of aspects of agriculture and is divided into four main strands: Scientific Practices, Soils, Grass and Crops and Animals
Would Agricultural Science suit me?
Some experience of farming would be desirable. This subject builds skills and knowledge that are particularly useful for careers such as: Farming, Horticulture & Forestry, Animals & Veterinary Science, Earth & Environment and Food & Drink
Career Path
Careers in this area include: Greenkeeping, Horticulture, Food Science, Agricultural Advisers, Agricultural Engineering, Sports Turf Management, Forestry, Farming, Marine Science, Renewable Energy and Teaching.
Assessment & Exam Structure
Higher Level
Ordinary Level
Written Paper – 75%
Project – 25%
Written Paper – 75%
Project – 25%
HOME ECONOMICS
The Home Economics syllabus provides Home Economics students wi understanding, skills and attitudes necessary for managing their own lives, for further and higher education and work. The learning experiences in home economics develop flexibility and adaptability in students, prepare them for a consumer-oriented society and provide a learning foundation for a wide range of careers in food, textiles, science, design, social studies and tourism.
Why Study Home Economics?
Students should study this subject to develop essential skills such as research, analysis, and interpretation of material. It also fosters a willingness to learn about nutrition and culinary skills while enhancing communication and teamwork abilities. Organisation is key in this subject, as students are encouraged to discuss topics and collaborate effectively. Given its practical and theoretical benefits, Home Economics remains a popular subject choice among Leaving Certificate students.
Would Home Economics suit me?
This subject is ideal for practical students who enjoy creating and understanding how things work. Leaving Certificate Home Economics builds on Junior Cycle topics, with a strong focus on theory. Practical cookery is assessed through written exams, and students explore textile electives, sociology, nutrition, resource management, and consumer studies. Many are surprised by the amount of written work required, as even practical elements must be documented and presented.
Career Path
This subject provides a good foundation for careers in a wide range of areas including Health, Nutrition, Education, Tourism, Textiles, Design, the Food industry, Science and Social Studies.
Course Content
The syllabus includes core areas—Food Studies (45%), Resource Management and Consumer Studies (25%), and Social Studies (10%)— along with one elective: Home Design and Management, Textiles, Fashion and Design, or Social Studies (each 20%). Students choosing Textiles must produce a graded garment. Electives expand on core topics, allowing deeper study. A mandatory practical coursework component, worth 20% of the final grade.
Assessment & Exam Structure
APPLIED MATHEMATICS
Applied Maths is the study of the practical applications of mathematics to the real world and physical problems. It is typically associated with engineering and physics, but also finds use in economics, finance, business, environmental studies, and even chemistry and medicine.
Why Study Applied Mathematics?
If you excel in Mathematics and Physics, Applied Maths can boost your Leaving Cert points. It overlaps with Physics (e.g., Motion, Newton’s Laws) and strengthens Honours Maths skills. Ideal for maths-strong students, and is essential for future engineers, giving a head start in college.
Would Applied Mathematics suit me?
Applied Maths is highly recommended for students pursuing Engineering, Science, IT, Business, Finance, Architecture, or Education. It benefits Higher Level Maths and Physics students due to course overlap. With high H1/H2 rates, it’s ideal for those needing top university points.
Career Path
Applied Maths is useful for careers such as Engineering, Physics, Construction, IT, Insurance, Systems Analysis and Architecture.
Course Content
Applied Maths applies real-world problemsolving to motion, collisions, and fluid dynamics. Unlike theory-heavy Maths, it focuses on practical applications, enhancing problem-solving skills essential for careers in Engineering, Science, and IT.
Assessment & Exam Structure
Written Paper – 80%
Higher Level
Ordinary Level
Project – 20%
Written Paper – 80%
Project – 20%
SUBJECT NAME:
ACCOUNTING
Leaving Certificate accounting provides students with the knowledge, understanding and skills in accounting and financial management necessary for managing personal and basic company accounts. The learning experiences in accounting develop students’ organisational, logical thinking, planning and problem-solving skills for their future life, work and study. It also develops their numeracy skills within the context of business and enterprise.
Why Study Accounting?
For those considering studying accounting, actuarial studies or finance after the Leaving Cert it would be unwise to leave accounting out of their subject choice. It is also be an important subject choice for those thinking of starting their own business. While not required specifically for studying any third level college course, it is recommended if Accountancy is the career path you want to follow.
Course Content
The course covers various aspects of financial management, including the preparation of financial statements, farm accounts, club accounts, company accounts, and manufacturing accounts. Students also learn to analyse and interpret financial statements, apply budgeting techniques, conduct breakeven analysis, classify costs, and understand accounting theory and principles.
Commonly seen as the mathematical side of business, accounting attracts the more numerate student. It teaches students the bookkeeping side of business but delves deeper, teaching you to analyse and interpret the figures. Once you can understand and adhere to the basic rules of accountancy, it is a subject that you can do very well in.
Career Path
Accountancy provides a valuable foundation for all business functions and many top executives have an accountancy background. Most chief executive officers of public limited companies have some sort of accountancy qualification. Career pathways might include accountancy, actuarial studies, marketing, business or finance. It would also be an important subject choice for those thinking of starting their own business
Assessment & Exam Structure
Would Accounting suit me?
BUSINESS STUDIES
Course Content
The Senior Cycle Business course covers four key strands: Exploring the Business Environment (stakeholders, policies, globalization), Understanding Enterprise (entrepreneurship, planning, finance), Leading in Business (management, recruitment, communication), and Being Informed and Making Informed Decisions (consumer rights, finance, ethics). The unifying strand, Investigating Business, integrates research and analysis.
getting a good mark.
Career Path
The study of Leaving Certificate Business can lead to many exciting and rewarding careers and builds an excellent foundation for students transferring into the world of work, further education and training, higher education, and entrepreneurship. Leaving Certificate Business provides students with a foundation for a wide range of careers in banking, business, enterprise, finance, insurance, law, marketing and management
SUBJECT NAME:
ECONOMICS
Leaving Certificate economics provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for understanding how the Irish and global economy functions. The learning experiences in economics develop students’ critical thinking, problem solving, decision-making and numeracy skills. Economics provides students with a learning foundation for a wide range of careers in business, economics, finance, enterprise and management.
Why Study Economics?
Economics deals with the real world business obstacles such as demand and supply, production and consumption, money and banking as well as economic policies, problems and conflicts. With inflation and international trade and payments constantly making headlines, economics requires its students to keep track of real world situations. It helps students to develop a clear understanding of the role of economics, to encourage the development of appropriate learning skills, and to generate in students a positive and ethical attitude to economics in personal, business and public life
Course Content
Leaving Certificate Economics explores how a modern economy functions at both macro and micro levels. The course covers key areas, including demand and supply, market structures, factors of production, national income, inflation, banking, international trade, fiscal policy, taxation, and the role of government in economic development. Additional topics, such as elasticity, costs, and broader economic policies, may also be examined. A Research Study, accounting for 20% of the final grade, is required.
This subject suits students interested in business, journalism, finance, politics, or current affairs. While prior study of business is helpful, it is not required. Success requires dedication and staying informed through news and newspapers. Students often prefer microeconomics (e.g., household budgets) over macroeconomics (e.g., inflation, growth). Higher-level students need a strong grasp of Irish economic issues and theory application
Career Path
The Leaving Cert economics programme can be an advantage for students considering third level courses with an economics element to course content. It is also useful for careers in Banking, Insurance, Finance, Marketing, Politics, Journalism, current affairs and all aspects of business.
Assessment & Exam Structure
Would Economics suit me?
LEAVING CERTIFICATE VOCATION PROGRAMME (LCVP)
The strong vocational focus of the LCVP is achieved through the provision of two additional courses of study in work preparation and enterprise, known as the Link Modules. These subjects teach the skills and knowledge needed to understand how business works.
Why Study LCVP?
LCVP students gain skills in communication, teamwork, adaptability, and job-seeking. They gain workplace knowledge, work experience, and business and technology skills. The program enhances employability, entrepreneurship, and learning at third level.
Would LCVP suit me?
LCVP is a practical programme suited to hands-on learners, providing real preparation for the world of work. A significant portion of marks is awarded for the portfolio, completed over two years. The programme links with other subjects, enhancing overall performance while promoting self-reliance, innovation, and enterprise. Skills such as planning, research, report writing, and presentations are valuable for success at third level. Additionally, LCVP can be counted as one of the six subjects when calculating CAO points.
Career Path
Students who take the LCVP link modules are considered better prepared for the world of work. The practical nature of the programme benefits those interested in starting a business or contributing to an existing one. In today’s fast-changing, technological world, employers value adaptable, multi-skilled, and well-educated individuals. The LCVP helps develop these qualities, which is why employers often view its students as more employable.
Course Content
LCVP students take two Link Modules over two years: Preparation for the World of Work and Enterprise Education, both of which are highly activity-based. These modules connect vocational subjects with real-world applications. Preparation for the World of Work helps students understand employment, conduct career research, and develop job-seeking skills through career investigations and work experience or shadowing. Enterprise Education fosters creativity, confidence, and initiative by encouraging students to interview entrepreneurs, explore local businesses, and create their own enterprise projects.
Assessment & Exam Structure
The Link Modules, Preparation for the World of Work and Enterprise Education, are assessed as a unit with a Terminal Exam (40%) and a Portfolio (60%). The exam in May includes an audio-visual section, a case study, and general questions. The portfolio, compiled over two years, includes core items like a CV, career investigation, and action plan, plus two optional items such as work experience or an enterprise report. LCVP students receive a Leaving Certificate with an additional Distinction (80–100%, 66 points), Merit (65–79%, 46 points), or Pass (50–64%, 28 points) grade.
