RELIGIOUS STUDIES

What is the course about?
This is a course that will stretch your mind, introduce you to great thinkers and give you a qualification respected throughout higher education.

This course gives you the opportunity to address the most profound philosophical questions about human existence through studying the philosophy of religion and ethics.

In philosophy of religion you will examine the major religious questions about the existence of God and in ethics you will consider how and why humans make decisions about what is right or good behaviour and look at specific ethical issues.

Which skills and/experience would be useful or essential?
Do you enjoy debating and arguing philosophical issues, challenging popular ideas and giving your own point of view?
You should have an enquiring mind, be receptive to new ideas and enjoy asking fundamental questions about important issues.
Philosophy of Religion and Ethics challenge students to criticise and analyse different ideas and to develop and reason through an argument. You should be able to work both independently and as part of a group and also be willing to participate fully in the often lively and energetic discussions which are generated on the topics we cover.
We recommend that you have achieved at least a grade C in GCSE R.S.

How will I learn and be assessed?
You will be actively involved in lessons which comprise a mixture of teacher led learning, individual study and group discussion work. R.S. has three assessment units at AS level. The foundation module is examined in January, the other two AS modules in June. Examination is by essay and there is a choice of questions.

What opportunities are available to me?
The skills you will be developing are highly valued in all kinds of careers, particularly those in which employers will be looking for someone with excellent communication skills, an appreciation of different viewpoints and an ability to come to clear balanced decisions, for example law the media, management and teaching.