Leaving Certificate History is a two-year course available at Higher Level and Ordinary Level. This subject is academic, analytical, and essay based. It is ideal for students who enjoy reading, writing, research, and forming arguments. The goal is to help students: gain a deep understanding of political, social, and cultural history, learn how to analyse historical documents and events, develop the ability to write structured, evidence-based essays, appreciate different perspectives and the complexity of historical change.

It is particularly useful for students considering careers or college courses in areas such as history, law, journalism, politics, teaching, sociology, and humanities in general.

How Is the Course Structured?

Students study four topics in total, drawn from two key fields of study:

• Irish History (Two Topics)
  • From the period 1815–1993, covering major events and developments in Irish political, social, and economic life
• Modern European and World History (Two Topics)
  • From the period 1815–1992, focusing on revolutions, ideologies, international relations, and major world conflicts.

Research Study Report (RSR) – The Project

A key feature of Leaving Cert History is the Research Study Report, often just called the RSR. This is a project worth 20% of the final grade. Students choose a historical topic that interests them and conduct independent research both in class and at home. The RSR is submitted before the final exam, usually between April and May.

The Final Exam

The Leaving Cert History paper includes one Document-Based Question (DBQ) and three Essay Questions and then the RSR making up the rest of the grade.