Subject Group: Humanities
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.
What is Latin?
Latin was the official language of Ancient Rome, and most modern European languages are at least partically derived from it. As a result, knowing Latin can be very helpful as a tool to learn other languages. The Romans have had a massive influence on world history, and the course provides an opportunity to learn about their widespread influence on modern art and culture.
As Latin is no longer a spoken language, the course focuses on written composition and comprehension of Latin texts. Poetry, historical records, and Roman legends are studied in detail, as well as Roman history (military and political), architecture, and culture. The language itself is very rigid and structured, making it less fluid than most other languages.
What kind of student might Latin suit?
Students aiming to work in medicine, zoology or botany, where latin is widely used to classify species and body parts.
Anyone with an interest in ancient Roman history and culture, and its influences on modern society.
Students who would like to gain a deeper understanding of the English language (as well as any other European languages they may be studying), particularly relating to etymology (word origins).
Students who enjoyed and got good grades in Junior Cert Latin are likely to continue enjoying the subject at Leaving Cert.
Students aspiring to work in Vatican City.
Third Level Entry Requirements This subject is not an essential requirement for any courses in the CAO system.
Data Sources: The information on these pages has been compiled from a variety of sources including the NCCA, Newbridge College / Brian Howard, Dept. of Education & Skills, and student interviews. Information in the 'People who took this subject' section reflects the views of those people interviewed on this website and is offered as informal and potentially useful information only.
While CareersPortal.ie attempts to keep this information as up to date and accurate as possible, we do not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of this information or decisions made on the basis of this information. Students should always discuss subject options with parents / guardians / guidance counsellors..
One of my biggest gripes about my time in school was the complete lack of any form of career guidance. I left school after the intermediate certificate to take a trade simply because I never considered that I had the ability to do anything else.
Back in the seventies you either took a trade, worked in the civil service, the bank or went to college. I took the trade like my father and his father before him. I would have loved to have studied English and it was the only subject I was any good at. I think that's partly the reason I went to UCC as a mature student, to prove a point to myself that I could actually do it.
So the short answer is that nothing I studied in school influenced me or prepared me for what I'm doing now and that includes the many years I spent trying to remember the Latin for “table” and “farmer” and bits about Hannibal crossing the Alps!
Biology and Chemistry were my favorites. Another which I found useful was Woodwork. Unfortunately, I gave up Woodwork, which is a good practical subject too early. The subjects I really enjoyed the most were Biology and Chemistry. Other practical subjects like Metalwork or Orienteering have been helpful.
Biology is most important for anyone going into Horticulture as it covers propagation and helps with the identification of plant names, species and families through the universal use of Latin. Chemistry is also helpful as the use of various chemicals is a constant in horticulture. The chemical content and dangers of fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides in use in Amenity Horticulture needs to be understood anyone going into this business.
