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.
Donal Og Cusack, Automation/Energy Engineer
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
The STEM subjects I studied in school were what led me to have an interest in this area of work and if I could go back to my school days I would put an emphasis on studying these subjects more and maybe doing better in them.
Kevin Power, Resource Manager
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
I took the regular subjects in school and I had a great interest in Geography and especially in Geology. But I cannot say that any of these subjects influenced my career path. However, after leaving school I worked for various forest harvesting contractors in my locality. It was from them that I developed a love of forestry and for the people who work in forestry. I would advise anybody to get some work experience in an area they hope to pursue in college.
Sissyane Rodrigues , Sustainability Leader - The Sandymount Hotel
What subjects did you take in school and how have these influenced your career path?
In Brazil, high school subjects are standard for everyone, so the real influence on my career path came during and after college. I first studied International Trade, then graduated in Marketing, which helped me develop communication and project management skills. I also did a minor in International Business and Accounting through an exchange program in the Netherlands. Later, I took a basic front-end programming course, which sparked my interest in tech. That’s when I realized I wanted to shift my career and start a Bachelor's in IT, which I’m currently doing. In hindsight, I might have explored IT earlier, but all these steps gave me valuable experience that I now bring into my current role.