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AS Level : Religious Studies

English Martyrs Catholic School

Anstey Lane , Leicester , Leicester, Leicestershire, LE4 0FJ

GCE A/AS Level or Equivalent
Level 3
History, Philosophy and Theology

Available start dates

Available start dates

Thursday, 01 September 2022
English Martyrs Catholic School
1 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours
NULL

Course Summary

The A Level Theology course is designed to develop skills in knowledge and understanding surrounding the nature of religious belief, together with the ability to critically assess different theories and construct balanced and informed arguments. These skills form the basis of all degree courses and prepare students well for higher education. Whilst the A level builds on the skills acquired at GCSE, the content is quite different, so the A level can be studied without a GCSE in Religious Studies. However, as the qualification is essay-based, a good standard of English Language is required.

There are 3 distinct areas of study, which are examined separately for both the AS and A level qualification.


Course Details

Philosophy of Religion
Ancient philosophical influences (Plato and Aristotle)
The nature of soul, mind and body
Philosophical arguments about the existence or non-existence of God.
The nature of religious experience and its evidential validity
The challenges caused by the problem of evil
The nature of God*
Issues in religious language*
Religion and Ethics
Normative ethical theories (what do we mean by right and wrong?)
The application of theory to contemporary issues (euthanasia and business)
Ethical language and thought today*
Debates about conscience*
Sexual ethics*
Developments in Christian Thought
Teaching on human nature, death and afterlife
Sources of wisdom- natural revelation and the person of Jesus
Christian moral principles
Religious pluralism*
Gender, society and theology*
Secularism and Liberation Theology*
*A level only

How will it be delivered and assessed?

At AS level, students take 3 papers, each lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes. (2 essay questions)

Exam Board: OCR


Entry requirements

5 Grade 4’s and above to include English, and Religious Education if previously studied.


Your next steps...

You could take this course to complement other advanced level courses or to prepare for the A2 part of an Advanced GCE in Religious Studies, which could lead you onto higher education to study Theology or Religious Studies. With further training, you could go into a job related to Religious issues and Theology such as a Social Worker or Counsellor. You could also go straight into a job as the AS GCE is a recognised qualification that will help you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for, especially in sectors where people are the main focus.


For more courses like this, check our courses page.