AS and A level Religious Studies

Course code: RSS

Level: AS Level, A Level

Availability: Day Course

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Summary

This is a course which looks at the philosophy of religion and the ethics of many modern day issues.

Requirements

At least five GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language

because:

  • you need to enjoy discussions and looking at ideas from different points of view
  • you need to be interested in philosophical and ethical issues.

Course Content

In Year 1 you will study units 1 and 2 for an AS level.  In Year 2 you will take units 3 and 4 to complete the full A level.

Unit 1: Philosophy of religion

This looks at arguments for the existence of God and challenges to religious belief such as the problem of evil and suffering.  You will look at the challenges of psychology and science to religious belief. You will also look at Ancient Greek influences on religious philosophy such as Plato and Aristotle.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 2: Religious ethics

This looks at religious ethics such as medical ethics, abortion, euthanasia, genetic engineering and embryo research. You will also look at the ethics of war and peace.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 3: Philosophy of religion

This takes a deeper look at religious philosophy and includes issues such as the distinction between the body and the soul, life after death, the concept of a miracle and a religious language.
You will be assessed by examination

Unit 4: Religious ethics

This covers ethical concepts such as the conscience, free will and moral responsibility.  Practical ethics include environmental ethics, sex and relationships and business ethics.
You will be assessed by examination

What else do I need to know?

You do not need to have taken GCSE Religious Studies to study AS level Religious Studies.

There will be a variety of activities which include group work and discussion-based lessons. We have a wide range of books in the library.  You can also use the networked CD-ROM and Internet.  This course combines with any other subject but there are particular links with Law, Sociology, Psychology and Science. This is a useful course generally and could lead to a career in teaching, the civil service, publishing and the media.

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