Computer Science

Introduction

Leaving Certificate Computer Science studies how computational thinking, programming and computer systems can be used to solve problems and create useful digital artefacts. It also asks students to think about how computing affects society, work and the environment.

Students learn theory and practise implementation together. They write, test and debug code, analyse algorithms, understand systems and data, and document how they design and evaluate computational solutions.

Current marking structure and 2027 onwards

Current marking structure

Leaving Certificate Computer Science is currently assessed through two components: an end-of-course examination worth 70% and coursework worth 30%. This is the official assessment structure for the updated specification already in use for examination in 2025 and beyond.

2027 onwards

No separate new 2027 assessment change is currently confirmed on official sources. As of May 24, 2026, the published specification and its 70% examination and 30% coursework structure remain the official course.

Contents of the course

The official specification is organised into three interwoven strands:

Strand 1: Practices and principles

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  • S1: Computational thinking
  • S1: Computers and society
  • S1: Design and development

Strand 2: Core concepts

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  • S2: Algorithms
  • S2: Computer systems
  • S2: Data
  • S2: Evaluation and testing

Strand 3: Computer science in practice

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  • Applied learning tasks
  • Computational artefact
  • Design process: Investigate, Plan, Design, Create, Iterate, Evaluate, Document

Curriculum links

Computer Science on Curriculum Online

Updated specification for examination in 2025 and beyond, including practical and written components.

Exam paper

2025 Leaving Certificate Computer Science Higher Level paper first page

2025 Leaving Certificate Computer Science Higher Level paper first page.

Zr Academy offers Computer Science support in Dublin 2 and online for students who want cleaner code, stronger theory and better coursework planning.

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Computer Science Grinds Dublin | Leaving Cert | Zr Academy