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This subject is very well thought of by universities.  Students often study the A Level alongside History, Politics, Sociology and English.  Those studying sciences find Philosophy and Ethics supports written and verbal communication.  Students can go on to study Philosophy or Theology at university and will benefit from it in medicine, law, education and politics.   

Further Advice

• videos of people who are working in jobs that use Philosophy and Ethics at icloud.
• example university degree courses and careers leading from this subject
• advice on applying for a university course in  Philosophy and  Law
• general advice on applying for University / UCAS
• For advice on apprenticeship courses, click here.

How is the course examined?

You will sit three exams at the end of the two-year course (summer of year 13). The exams are in Philosophy, Ethics and Developments in Christian Thought. In these exams you will have a list of four essay questions and will be tasked with completing three of them.

How am I assessed in this subject? We assess your progress by giving you essay-based questions. Essays are out of 40 marks and you are awarded marks for demonstrating knowledge (AO1) and analytical skills (AO2). You will need to be able to present a flow of argument that accurately explains ethical theory and philosophical argument in relation to and bring balance, highlighting your perspectives through careful and critical analysis.

How much work will I need to do each week? You have 9 hours timetabled over a two-week period for lessons with your teachers. There is a good deal of reading required for this course and that means you will need and are expected to attend classes prepared. That means reading the textbook and any additional materials your teacher may deem necessary or helpful to you prior to coming to the lesson. You will also be required to commit to completing any homework set, and you may need to add extra time to your independent study. As a rule, and at a minimum, for every hour spent in the classroom you will need to spend an hour outside of the classroom.

Do I need to have achieved a specific grade in RE to take this subject?

Whilst it is very useful to have a background knowledge in Religious Studies, we do not ask specifically for a certain grade in this topic. However, it is imperative that you are competent in essay writing and scholarly reading constructing a coherent written argument, analysing key ideas and arguments, and reaching a justified conclusion.

Is this course based in Christian teaching?

The main religious focus of the course is the Judaeo-Christian philosophical and theological approaches to God and the world. There is opportunity to discuss other world views, but this is general focus of the course.

What careers benefit from the study of Religious Studies?

Law, Lecturing, Teaching, Journalism, Publishing, Local Government, Marketing, Civil Service, Psychotherapy

SKILLS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES:

• Good interpersonal skills: It is very important within Philosophy and Ethics to develop life skills that you will use every day to communicate and interact with other people, both individually and in groups. These include empathy and compassion, intrigue and questioning skills as well as a critical and philosophical approach to key ideas and opinions.
• Team working: Throughout Philosophy and Ethics you will work collaboratively with groups of students in order to achieve goals.
• Problem solving: Philosophy and Ethics focuses upon discovering, analysing and solving problems especially dealing with current ethical issues or finding solutions to philosophical questions.
• Time management and ability to work to deadlines: These are very important within Religious Studies. The course can be very demanding so you must organise your time sufficiently in order to cope with the requirements.
• Good verbal and written communication skills: A lot of time during Religious Studies is spent discussing and debating important questions, developing an open mind and listening skills as well as mature language and providing you ways to support your ideas. Written skills are intensely developed throughout the year with specific focus on written language, essay writing skills and development of a written argument.
• Analytical skills: Philosophy develops the ability to gather information (often through research), articulate, analyse, solve complex problems and make decisions based on the research or information found.
• Independent learning: A key skill in Philosophy is developing students’ ability to think, act and pursue their own studies autonomously, often through independent work and research.

Is there enrichment to in-class learning?

There is an annual trip to Emmanuel College, Cambridge University, to attend a series of lectures, organised by Academy Conferences. These lectures are presented by esteemed and published scholars and philosophers and focus on the enrichment of the A Level course.

If you have any subject specific questions that you'd like to ask.  You are very welcome to contact the relevant Head of Subject.  To find their email address click on Teaching Staff.  For general enquiries, contact the 6th Form Team.