Religious Studies is an interesting subject that examines the ‘big questions’ surrounding the three key areas of philosophy, ethics and Christian thought, encouraging you to reflect upon your own beliefs about the world – whether you believe in God, are agnostic or atheist. Our dedicated teaching staff will guide and support you through the course to ensure you meet full your potential. Engaging issues will be discussed giving you the opportunity to debate your ideas with those who may hold a different belief, challenging you to reflect and refine your own thoughts. You will develop skills in critical thinking, debating, evaluative essay writing and will learn how to identify the strengths and weaknesses of other people’s arguments. Philosophy of Religion: The ideas of the ancient Greek philosophers, Plato and Aristotle; arguments for the existence of God; the design, cosmological and ontological arguments; the problem of evil and religious experience. Ethics: you will learn and explore four different (religious and non-religious) ethical theories and apply these to different issues. You will examine religious language and the development of ethical thought. Developments in Christian Thought: If you think you know what Christianity is, then this aspect of the course (whether you are a Christian or not) will make you think again. You will explore Christian beliefs and how they have developed historically. You will examine the Christian influence upon philosophy and ethics and how this influence has come to be challenged. You will examine philosophical and political secularism and whether Christianity has any relevance in today’s modern society.