CAPE Accounting is the financial information system that provides relevant information to anyone who owns, manages or uses economic resources or engages in economic activity. The syllabus provides opportunities for students to acquire relevant competencies, attitudes and values for the work environment and to develop an awareness of the social and ethical responsibilities of accountants and users of financial information. Additionally, the syllabus provides a foundation for further study of Accounting at pre-professional and professional levels.

This is a two-Unit syllabus. Each Unit is further subdivided into three (3) Modules.

The main emphasis of the applied course is on developing the ability of the students to start with a problem in non-mathematical form and transform it into mathematical language. This will enable them to bring mathematical insights and skills in devising a solution, and then interpreting this solution in real-world terms.

Students accomplish this by exploring problems using symbolic, graphical, numerical, physical and verbal techniques in the context of finite or discrete real-world situations. Furthermore, students engage in mathematical thinking and modelling to examine and solve problems arising from a wide variety of disciplines including, but not limited to, economics, medicine, agriculture, marine science, law, transportation, engineering, banking, natural sciences, social sciences and computing.

The syllabus is divided into two (2) Units. Each Unit comprises three (3) Modules.

Biology is the scientific study of living organisms. The study of this subject leads to an understanding and appreciation of the concepts of life at all levels and hence to a greater respect and reverence for life. The interconnected web of life and the unique role of the human species are integral to the dynamic value of the biosphere. The CAPE Biology Syllabus prepares students to acquire knowledge about how to protect, sustain, conserve and improve the variety of life in the ecosphere. It also provides a foundation for persons wishing to pursue careers in biological, environmental, agricultural, medical, paramedical and applied science.

Unit 1: Biomolecules, Reproduction and Development

Unit 2: Bioenergetics, Biosystems and Applications

Art and Design offers a significant introduction to observation, research, production, cultural studies, aesthetics and art criticism that are embodied in a wide range of disciplines such as the Humanities, Science, Engineering, and Information and Communication Technologies. The verbal and visual characteristics of this course aids in the development of cognitive, psycho-motor and attitudinal skills. It provides a solid foundation for the development of knowledge and skills necessary for careers in creative production, marketing, commercial enterprise and manufacturing industries, as well as a variety of aesthetic enterprises. It also provides candidates with the observational skills relevant to a wide range of occupational areas and fields of study especially Law, Criminology and Medicine. In addition, it aims to prepare Caribbean students to respect their environment and live harmoniously in their communities.

The syllabus is divided into two Units. Each Unit consists of three Modules.

Unit 1: Foundations of Art and Design

Unit 2: Applications of Art and Design

Caribbean Studies is an interdisciplinary field of study that draws on perspectives, largely from the humanities and social sciences to provide an understanding of Caribbean society and cultures. This interdisciplinary subject provides students with the opportunity to study issues relevant to the distinctive physical, political and socio-economic challenges facing the small states which comprise the region. Such study integrates perspectives from various disciplines including, Cultural Studies and Ethics, Economics, Government and Politics, History, International relations, Physical and Human Ecology, and Sociology, as tools for understanding Caribbean society and culture.

The Caribbean Studies Syllabus comprises three Modules:

Module 1: Caribbean Society and Culture

Module 2: Issues in Caribbean Development

Module 3: Investigating Issues in the Caribbean

Chemistry is a branch of science concerned with the properties and interactions of the substances of which matter is composed. This CAPE Chemistry Syllabus provides the specific knowledge base and the skills and attitudes associated with advanced study of the subject. It is structured to ensure that students become aware of their moral, social and ethical responsibilities, as well as the benefits to be derived from the practical application of scientific knowledge. Completion of the course of study outlined in this syllabus will enable persons to apply chemical principles to societal concerns such as birth control, communicable diseases, environmental pollution, global warming and the depletion of natural resources.

This syllabus is arranged into TWO Units, each made up of three Modules.

Unit 1: Chemical Principles and Applications I

Unit 2: Chemical Principles and Applications II

Communication Studies builds students’ awareness of the centrality of language to the normal functioning of human beings and facilitates their ability to operate in the Caribbean linguistic environment and beyond. It also provides students with the confidence to respond appropriately and creatively to the implied challenges of that environment through the development of their language awareness and communicative competencies. It focuses primarily on the development of advanced competencies in Standard English, particularly Caribbean Standard English. At the same time, it attempts to develop an appreciation of the linguistic diversity of the Caribbean. In addition, it explores the implications of this diversity for social, cultural and economic transactions.

This syllabus consists of three Modules.

Module 1: Gathering and Processing Information

Module 2: Language and Community

Module 3: Speaking and Writing

Computer science is the study of the theoretical foundations of information and computation and their implementation and application in computer systems. The CAPE Computer Science Syllabus provides persons with advanced knowledge, skills and attitudes to enable them to understand the uses and the impact of computer technologies, and to use the technology to create new computer applications for all areas of human activity. This syllabus provides opportunity for the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes as preparation for further studies in Computer Science and the world of work.

This syllabus consists of two Units , each comprising three Modules.

Unit 1: Fundamentals of Computer Science

Unit 2: Further Topics in Computer Science

Economics is the study of how society provides for itself by making the most efficient use of scarce resources so that both private and social welfare may be improved. The CAPE Economics Syllabus is intended to promote knowledge and understanding of the principles and concepts of economics and to foster an appreciation of the various methods used by economists in analysing economic problems. The knowledge and skills acquired will enable students to contribute to the economic and social development of the Caribbean.

The syllabus is arranged into two Units. Each Unit consists of three Modules.

Unit 1: Microeconomics

Unit 2: Macroeconomics

Entrepreneurship seeks to empower students by providing the knowledge, skills and attitudes to achieve entrepreneurial success in a variety of settings. It places emphasis on the individual’s acumen to realise opportunity, assess risk, and apply the skills necessary to transform innovative ideas into viable, sustainable ventures. The CAPE Entrepreneurship syllabus provides students with the mindset that supports creativity and innovation needed to transform ideas into ventures that create value and wealth. The syllabus seeks to fill that void in the continuum from idea generation to venture creation.

The syllabus is divided into two (2) Units.

Unit 1: Entrepreneurship Theory

Unit 2: Entrepreneurship Practice

Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary branch of science that deals with the interactions among physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment. The subject employs qualitative and quantitative approaches to the study of environmental systems. The CAPE Environmental Science Syllabus provides opportunities for students to acquire knowledge and skills to identify, prevent and solve problems and prepares them for careers in diverse fields related to environmental management and to sustainable development of the Caribbean Region. The aims of the syllabus include development of an understanding of the interdisciplinary and holistic nature of the environment and the interactions between people and the environment.

The subject is organised in two Units. A Unit comprises three Modules.

Unit 1: Ecology, Human Population and Natural Resources

Unit 2: Agriculture, Energy and Environmental Pollution

The French syllabus emphasises the development of the four language skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing) and the acquisition of knowledge of Francophone culture through the study of selected topics and contemporary writings of relevance to Caribbean society. While the topics have been selected to provide knowledge and understanding of issues pertinent to Caribbean people in a global context, emphasis will be on language competence rather than on detailed technical knowledge.

The syllabus consists of two Units each containing three Modules.

Unit 1: La Famille, La Société et L’Environnement

Unit 2: L’Actualité, La Technologie et L’Économie

Geography is the study of the physical features of the earth and how it is impacted on by human activity. The development of geographical understanding and the ability to appreciate how physical and human forces interact to give identity to places and to create recognisable spatial patterns is central to the study of this syllabus. It facilitates an understanding of the causal relationships at different geographic scales – local, regional and global.

This syllabus consists of two Units, comprising three Modules each. Each Module is compulsory. Each Unit comprises a physical, human and integrated component. Each Unit forms a coherent course of study, which should prepare candidates for the world of work, and further studies at the tertiary level.

Unit 1: Population Geography, Geomorphic Processes and Hazards

Unit 2: Climate, Economic Activity and Development

History is the continuous, systematic study, through research, of events over time, that are of importance to communities, societies, countries and ultimately, the human race. The CAPE History Syllabus seeks to enhance the interests, capabilities, skills and attitudes of students to enable them to develop as autonomous human beings capable of acting as rational and ethical individuals, and as responsible members of their community. The selection, structure and content of themes and modules have been informed by a desire to promote an understanding of the historical as well as the contemporary relationships among the nations and societies on the Atlantic shores. The syllabus has been organised to enhance the in-depth study of themes that will enable persons to acquire and practise the skills of a historian.

The syllabus is arranged into two Units, each made up of three Modules. While each Unit is independent of the other, together they form a holistic vision of the Caribbean and the Atlantic region as a theatre in which some foundations of the modern world were established.

Unit 1: The Caribbean in the Atlantic World

Unit 2: Atlantic World and Global Transformations

Information Technology is the study, design, development, implementation, support and management of computer-based information systems, including software applications and computer hardware. The CAPE Information Technology Syllabus will enable students to use technology to participate in, and contribute to the new technological world. They will become conscious of the impact of Information and Communication Technologies, and how the appropriate use of Information Technology can help to solve the problems, including those of an economic, social or personal nature. This syllabus emphasises the importance of Information Technology to the economic and social development of the region.

This syllabus is arranged into TWO Units, each made up of three Modules.

Unit 1: Information Technology Theory

Unit 2: Apllication and Implication

The Caribbean Examinations Council offers three types of certification at the CAPE level. The first is the award of a certificate showing each CAPE Unit completed. The second is the CAPE Diploma, awarded to candidates who have satisfactorily completed at least six Units, including Caribbean Studies. The third is the CXC Associate Degree, awarded for the satisfactory completion of a prescribed cluster of eight CAPE Units including Caribbean Studies, Communication Studies and Integrated Mathematics. Integrated Mathematics is not a requirement for the CXC Associate Degree in Mathematics. The complete list of Associate Degrees may be found in the CXC Associate Degree Handbook.

Law is a system of rules usually enforced through a series of institutions. The CAPE Law Syllabus assists persons who wish to embark on further study and training for entry into the legal profession; it also addresses the needs of other persons engaged in occupations which require some knowledge of the law, such as clerks, paralegals, administrators, managers, the police and other public officers. It serves to inform persons of their rights and obligations, and to inculcate in them certain positive values, which are necessary in a civilised society.

The syllabus is arranged into two Units. Each Unit consists of three Modules.

Unit 1: Public Law

Unit 2: Private Law

The Caribbean experience has provided the context for a rich and varied literature which has earned a crucial place in the global family of literatures in English. The CAPE Literatures in English Syllabus aims to develop an understanding of the nature and function of literature and the methods of literary study. It seeks to encourage critical reading, interpretation, evaluation and an appreciation of, and an informed personal response to literature.

The Literatures in English syllabus comprises two Units, each containing three Modules corresponding to the three literary genres: Drama, Poetry, and Prose Fiction.

Each Unit incorporates the subject core which comprises the knowledge and understanding derived from a range of readings; concepts and skills in literary study, and related assessment objectives. The core comprises four texts drawn from a range of historical periods between 1370 and the present day. All prescribed core texts are works originally written in English.

The core requires students to study, at least, the following:

(i) one play by Shakespeare;

(ii) one work of Caribbean literature;

(iii) one work of poetry;

(iv) one work of prose fiction.

Each Unit requires a study of a minimum of four texts.

Management of Business procedures involved in managing a successful business enterprise.

The CAPE Management of Business syllabus provides not only a good foundation for further study of Management of Business and other related disciplines at the tertiary level, but also opportunities for students to function not only in existing business organisations, but also as successful entrepreneurs having developed the required knowledge and understanding of management principles, practices, and skills required to address managerial problems and the challenges faced by businesses

The syllabus is divided into two (2) Units. Each Unit comprises three Modules.       

Unit 1: Management Principles and Processes

Unit 2: Application in Management

Physics is the study of nature, conducted in order to understand how the world around us behaves. Physics study matter and its motion, as well as space and time and explores concepts such as force, energy, mass, and charge. The CAPE Physics Syllabus will enable persons to be aware of the laws and theories of Physics that influence every aspect of their physical existence and to acquire understanding and knowledge of technological and scientific application of Physics, especially in the Caribbean context. The CAPE Physics Syllabus is structured to ensure that students become aware of their moral, social, and ethical responsibilities as well as the benefits intrinsic to the practical application of scientific knowledge in careers in the field of science. The syllabus also helps to develop an understanding of the scientific process, its usefulness and its limitations.

This syllabus is arranged into TWO Units, each made up of three Modules.

This syllabus is arranged into TWO Units, each made up of three Modules.

Unit 1: Mechanics, Waves, Properties of Matter

Unit 2: Electricity and Magnetism, A.C. Theory and Atomic and Nuclear Physics

Mathematics is one of the oldest and most universal means of creating, communicating, connecting and applying structural and quantitative ideas. Students doing this syllabus will have already been exposed to Mathematics in some form mainly through courses that emphasise skills in using mathematics as a tool, rather than giving insight into the underlying concepts.

This syllabus will not only provide students with more advanced mathematical ideas, skills and techniques, but encourage them to understand the concepts involved, why and how they “work” and how they are interconnected. It is also to be hoped that, in this way, students will lose the fear associated with having to learn a multiplicity of seemingly unconnected facts, procedures and formulae. In addition, the course should show them that mathematical concepts lend themselves to generalisations, and that there is enormous scope for applications to solving real problems. The course is therefore intended to provide quality in selected areas rather than in a large number of topics.

The syllabus is arranged into two (2) Units, each Unit consists of three Modules.

Unit 1: Algebra, Geometry and Calculus

Unit 2: Complex Numbers, Analysis and Matrices

Sociology is a scientific study of social interactions, social institutions, social patterns and social change of human society guided by sociological theories and methods. Caribbean society has been shaped by historical forces which have led to the emergence of several small diverse and divided societies, each unique in many respects but sharing a common history of colonialism, slavery and indentureship. Despite evidence of socio-economic transformation and the influence of globalisation, the region still maintains a distinct identity. In this regard, sociology can equip students with the necessary knowledge, orientation and skills for understanding society in general and Caribbean Society in particular.

The syllabus introduces students to theories and research methods of sociology, the sociological perspective and the processes of social structural change with specific emphasis on the development and modernisation of societies. Students will acquire a set of sociological competencies that will enable them to use the practical and problem-solving approaches to the analysis of society.

The syllabus consists of two Units, comprising three Modules.

Unit 1: The Sociological Perspective 

Unit 2: Development and Social Change

The syllabus emphasises the development of the four language skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing) and the acquisition of knowledge of Hispanic culture through the study of selected topics and contemporary writings of relevance to Caribbean society. Students develop multiple literacies and independent and critical thinking in the context of foreign language learning and in keeping with the UNESCO Pillars of Learning. While the topics have been selected to provide knowledge and understanding of issues pertinent to Caribbean people in a global context, emphasis will be on language competence rather than on detailed technical knowledge.

The syllabus consists of two Units each containing three Modules.

Unit 1: La Familia, La Sociedad y el Medio Ambiente 

Unit 2: Las Actualidades, La Tecnología y La Economía

Tourism is the biggest employer in the region. Consequently, the human resource development in the area of tourism is integral to the economic growth and development of Caribbean tourism and the Caribbean. People with quality education and training will improve, enhance and ensure the economic viability and sustainability of Caribbean tourism. Significant opportunities exist in tourism for governments, communities, private sector organisations, non–governmental organisations and young entrepreneurs to participate and collaborate for national development.

Students pursuing this subject will benefit from exposure to the concepts and principles of tourism and their practical application to the business environment. This area of study will also equip students to think logically and critically, as well as enhance their human relation skills.

The Tourism Syllabus consists of two Units comprising three Modules each.

Unit 1: Tourism Concepts

Unit 2: Tourism Product Development and Marketing