Religious Studies

Course summary

A level in Religious Studies ensures students have a thorough understanding of diverse philosophical and ethical viewpoints. With a variety of relevant and contemporary themes studied, students will find themselves engaged in interesting discussions. Religious Studies will help you develop both academically and personally, by helping you to analyse complex questions and create informed opinions on them. If you have an interest in religion in general, or a specific faith, or if you wish to follow a philosophical or ethical approach to religion, then this course will provide you with the opportunity to study those areas of interest. Religious Studies complements all subjects at A level. The course is suitable for students who want to go on to study Law, Philosophy and Theology at university. Its ethical content also makes it an ideal accompaniment to the sciences for those interested in a career in Medicine. It provides an interesting contrast with subjects such as Chemistry and Physics, and shows you to be a student of many skills, making you more desirable to employers and universities. There is an emphasis on critical evaluation and the acquisition of knowledge in depth. Students will be expected to read widely and produce regular homework. Weekly Timed Assignments are set. Trips to places of worship and the British Museum are planned. There are three components, Philosophy and Religion, Religion and Ethics and the Study of Christianity. This is studied in the context of one religion. There are three 2-hour exams. Topics studied include: • Religious Language • Life after Death • Virtue Ethics • Medical Ethics • Atonement • Liberation Theology