A Level Philosophy, Ethics and Buddhism - Religious Studies

Please refer to EN's Entry Requirements Guide for specific advice on our Admissions Policy. This guide is supplied at interview to prospective students and is also available to Schools & Careers Advisers.

This course will offer you an exciting opportunity to fuse the study of Philosophy, Ethics and Religion into one subject.

You will cover a wide range of topics such as; different approaches to considering moral and ethical issues, issues in contemporary society, such as medical and environmental ethics and the psychology of religious belief.

We will examine the issues of euthanasia and the right to die, and explore the arguments surrounding the rights of non-human animals.

We will also explore the psychology of belief in religious phenomenon, including an exploration of symbolism and myth in religious practices.

You will complete the course by examining the religious figures, sacred texts, concepts and life and practices of one of the world’s major religions.

The course is divided into three components. You will study an introduction to each component in your first year and go into each of them in more detail in your second year.

Component 1 – A Study of Religion – Buddhism

We will examine the religious figures, sacred texts, concepts and life and practices of Buddhism.

Component 2 – An introduction to Philosophy of Religion

We will explore the arguments about the existence or non-existence of God, Gods or ultimate reality; philosophical language and key thinkers and debates in the philosophy of religion; challenges to religious belief, such as the problem of evil and suffering; and the nature and influence of religious experience.

Component 3 – An introduction to Religion and Ethics

We will review ethical language and thought on key concepts such as morality and behaviour. This will include discussion about views on abortion, euthanasia, homosexual and polyamorous relationships, animal experimentation and the use of nuclear weapons as a deterrent.

Exam - 100%

Grade 4 or higher in GCSE English Language and an average GCSE score of 5.00 or higher.

The subject requires students to develop good skills of critical reasoning and problem-solving. It also requires them to develop an understanding of quite sensitive issues and beliefs from different perspectives.

It is, therefore, a good subject if you are interested in ‘people’ jobs e.g. social work, police and criminal justice roles, community work, psychological services and careers in education. However, the skills are transferable to a range of occupations.