A-Levels: Religious Studies

Why study Religious Studies?

Is there really such a thing as a miracle? What are the arguments for the existence of God? Are science and religion in conflict? A course in Religious Studies should be highly enjoyable if these types of issues grab your attention. By studying such topics, they will allow you to develop a highly critical mind. Also, if you have an interest in popular culture, learning about the relationship between religion, art and the media will be of great interest to you.

What do I study?
Year 1 (AS)
Unit 1: Religion Philosophy and Science - miracles, creation, the design argument.
Assessment: External exam- 1-¼ hours

Unit 2: Religion, Art and the Media - nature and purpose of religious art, role of comedy in religion, cyber-religion.
Assessment: External exam- 1-¼ hours
Year 2 (A2)
Unit 3: Philosophy of Religion - the relationship between faith and reason, religious language, body, soul and personal identity.
Assessment: External exam- 1-½ hours
Unit 4:Religion and Human experience: Ways of Moral Decision Making - medical research and medical developments, business practice and economics.
Assessment: External exam- 1-½ hours

Where does Religious Studies take me?
Religious Studies is a rigorous academic discipline which can be combined with any other subject. It is recognised by all universities. It is relevant to many careers, e.g. those requiring a mature and caring approach such as Social Work, and also those careers that require analytical skills, e.g. a legal career. It is also highly useful for those wishing to enter the teaching profession.