Philosophy & Ethics

 

The two main components of the course are Philosophy of Religion and Religious Ethics. Each component is taught separately and will be assessed through written examination.

 

What will I study?

 

AS Course

Students will follow a Philosophy of Religion course and a Religious Ethics course.

 

1. Philosophy of Religion (AS) – Students will study the major influences in the Philosophy of Religion, they will explore the traditional arguments for the existence of God and the challenges to Religious Belief which includes the problem of evil and religion and science.

 

2. Religious Ethics (AS) – Students will cover a general introduction to Religious Ethics and then will study in detail several ethical theories which include Natural Law, Kantian Ethics and Utilitarianism. Students will also explore how ethical theory can be applied to issues of abortion, euthanasia, genetic engineering, and war and peace.

 

A2 Course

In the second year of study, pupils will complete two units and these will build on the foundations set in the AS course.

 

1. Philosophy of Religion (A2) – Students will explore the field of religious language. They will examine views about life after death, miracles, religious experiences and the nature of God.

2. Religious Ethics (A2) – Students will study Meta-Ethics, Free Will and Determinism, the nature and role of conscience and Virtue Ethics. Students will also explore how ethical theory can be applied to issues of Sexual Ethics and Environmental and Business Ethics.

 

How will I be assessed?

 

AS Level - Students will sit two exams, a Philosophy of Religion exam and a Religious Ethics exam. Each exam lasts for 1 hour 30 mins and students are expected to answer two essay type questions. Each question will be made up of 2 parts.

 

A2 Level – Students will sit two exams, a Philosophy of Religion exam and a Religious Ethics exam. Each exam lasts for 1 hour 30 mins and students are expected to answer two open essay style questions.

 

Entry Requirements

 

Route 1 – Grade B in a related subject

Route 2 – Grade B in a related subject

Route 3 – Not available

Route 4 – Not available

 

Career Opportunities

 

Religious Studies is accepted at all universities and colleges in the UK. It is accepted for a wide range of careers including teaching, law, medicine, social work, business and management and personnel work.