Leaving Cert Subjects
Leaving Cert | Leaving Cert Applied (LCA)
Practical Group
These subjects are 'hands-on' and involve working with tools and machinery on physical things like wood, metals and plastic. They may involve designing, planning and building things.
Science Group
These subjects demonstrate how to explore nature using carefully planned methods, and teach the basic methods and findings of scientific investigation.
Artistic & Creative Group
These subjects involve developing creativity and the appreciation of the work of others. This involves learning the methods and techniques of the subject and producing your own work using these skills.
Humanities Group
These subjects explore the ways in which humans live and communicate in the world. Human life is examined by looking at our past, our present and into our future. These subjects help people to express themselves clearly and develop their reasoning ability.
Social Group
These subjects explore common issues faced by all people living in society. They develop the skills and knowledge used to manage personal resources and guide human behaviour.
Mary Joyce, Secondary School Teacher
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
In school I studied Geography, German, History and Economics along with the three core subjects. Geography is the only subject that has influenced by career as it was my elective subject in college and I am now teaching it along with PE. You need to consider the subject choices available with PE in your chosen course and college as it will be affected by your chosen subjects at leaving cert.
Diego Gallagher, Senior Solicitor
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I enjoyed history, English and civics. I also did Latin but it is not essential for a future career in law! Any subjects that encourage curiosity and asking questions and challenging narratives would be useful for a career in law.
Fergal Donnelly, European Commission
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
It's understandable not to have clear subject choices at a young age. The best advice is to go for what you're good at and to chuck what you don't like. Only vague ambitions at this stage are appropriate. The rest will follow in due course.