Subject summary
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. 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?
Young people are growing up in a dynamic economy which is constantly changing at local, national and global levels. Increasingly, their lives are being shaped by social, political and economic decisions and policies made by the Irish government as well as European and international governments and institutions. Students need to be equipped with the skills, knowledge, understanding and values to negotiate these rapid changes in order for them to participate fully and effectively in society. In developing their knowledge and understanding of Ireland’s economy, students will engage with the wider business environment. Being economically literate enables students to identify and evaluate economic concepts as they relate to the economy and political systems. Using skills of critical thinking, data analysis and decision making through the study of economics, students will be prepared and empowered to contribute to society and manage future challenges confidently.
Course Content
The leaving Certificate Economics course is divided into five strands:
Exam Structure
There are two assessment components at both higher and ordinary level:
Research Study (20%)
The research study will assess the students’ ability to use the knowledge, concepts and skills developed in their study of economics to evaluate information and data and make informed conclusions. The research study will be based on a brief issued annually by the State Examinations Commission. The brief will outline a number of topics from which students will choose one for their research study.
Sample Economics Research Project
Written Exam (80%)
Duration 2 hours 30 minutes
Career Possibilities
Economics can lead to many exciting and rewarding careers, from being a policy developer, financial advisor, analyst or journalist, to being employed by the government, industry, financial institutions, statutory and voluntary organisations, and working in sectors such as IT and education. Economics is an integral part of many other business disciplines, including management, marketing, accountancy, and finance. It also influences and has applications across a wide spectrum of other subject areas including political science, international relations, sociology, geography, law and psychology.