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.
Shane Callanan, Electronic Engineer
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
When in I was in school I didn’t really have a definite career plan. However I did prefer the Science subjects in general over languages or Business type subjects. Along with the obligatory subjects, I continued with Physics, Chemistry and Honours Maths for my leaving certificate, not so much as a conscious career choice but because I liked them. However as it turned out these all helped me during my course, and they tied in with my career choice.
Caoimhe Moloney-Kavanagh, Coach Company - Group Operations Director
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I loved French & Spanish in school, it’s so important to be able to speak another language. Education is something that continues through life though and it’s important to remember that although diploma & degrees are a fantastic, there are so many more ways now to progress your tourism career. The ETB’s apprenticeship programme is a wonderful scheme and can be a solid foundation for careers throughout the entire tourism industry but especially tourism transport!
Dr Alexis Carey , Health Psychologist
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I did 7 honours subjects for my Leaving Certificate. Biology and Chemistry gave me a solid understanding of how our bodies and brains work, which is essential for psychology. Geography helped me think about environment and context. Maths was a key player in my career. I wouldn’t be where I am today without those skills for statistics and research, required for psychology. I also took English, Irish and French. Language subjects developed my communication and critical thinking skills, all of which support my holistic approach as a Health Psychologist.