Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies
What is the course about - AS summary powerpoint
- What does the department offer?
- What skills will I acquire?
- What can I do with an A-level in Philosophy and RS?
- What students think
- Examination results
- Student destinations
- Open evening leaflet
What is the course about
Do you want an AS/A level that will:
- Stretch your mind
- Introduce you to great thinkers
- Give you a qualification respected throughout higher education
Do you enjoy
- Debating and arguing the BIG issues such as
- If God is good why does evil exist
- How did the Universe begin
Do I actually KNOW anything- Can we eliminate suffering
- Do the answers lie with God , Science or ourselves.
- Challenging popular ideas
- Giving your point of view
Philosophy and Religious Studies is a subject that asks meaningful questions about the nature of the world and humanity's place within it. If you have an enquiring mind, are receptive to new ideas and enjoy asking questions, then any of the courses offered by the department at Greenhead College is for you.
The subject complements a wide range of subject combinations; not only arts, humanities and social science, but also the sciences. For example, this subject would be particularly useful to anyone wishing to study medicine, veterinary science, law or enter the paramedical, law enforcement or teaching professions.
So where does Philosophy and RS get you in the end? It is hoped that anyone who studies religion and philosophy will arrive at a better understanding of the subjects, whatever their reactions to them. Equally important, they will have a better understanding of themselves and their world, in whatever direction this may lead them.
What does the department offer?
The department offers the following course that will suit students who wish to pursue the subject over either one or two years of study.
AS Level
| Module | Subject | Assessments |
| Philosophy of Religion |
1. Greek Philosophy - Plato and Aristotle |
1 hour and 30 minute written exam |
| Eastern Philosophy - Buddhism | 1. Origins of Buddhism 2. Core philosophical concepts 3. Key teachings, attitudes and practice |
1 hour and 30 minute written exam |
| Have a look at the AS Summary Powerpoint for more information | ||
A2 Level
| Module | Subject | Assessments |
| Philosophy of Religion | 1. Religious language |
1 hour and 30 minute written exam |
| Eastern Philosophy - Buddhism |
1. Nibbana 2. Buddhist texts 3. Buddhist meditation 4. East Asian Buddhism—Zen and Pure Land 5. Tibetan Buddhism 6. Buddhism in the West |
1 hour and 30 minute written exam |
What skills will I acquire?
The skills you acquire through study depend on both content and the teaching and learning strategies employed. RS challenges students to criticise, analyse and study sources objectively, to marshall facts and present arguments in logical discussion, whether written or oral.
| How will you learn? | What skills will you acquire? |
| Lectures/formal lessons | Note-taking skills Assimilation of material Formulation of appropriate questions and answers Listening skills |
| Presentation and group work | Working with others Communication (written, electronic, visual, oral) Production of user-friendly resources (handouts, OHTs, using IT) |
| Essay writing | Formulation of written assignments Examination technique Analysis of questions Revision technique |
| Research - independent and group | Knowledge of where and how to find sources How to use and record sources Negotiating and meeting deadlines |
| Discussion - class and group | Formulation of oral arguments Listening skills |
| You will be asked to review your acquisition of skills as the course progresses | |
What can I do with A-level Philosophy and Religious Studies?
The new AS in Philosophy and Religious Studies is a valuable entry qualification to post 18 education and all further education opportunities.
All universities accept and welcome students with a qualification in this area onto a variety of courses, in humanities, arts and sciences as well as to specific courses in Philosophy, Religious Studies, Comparative Religions, Theology or other related disciplines, such as History, English, Politics and Law etc.
What students think
"Philosophy is an upbeat and challenging subject which allows you to express and debate exciting opinions".
Sarah Taylforth
"Philosophy is great because you learn about yourself almost as much as the philosophers we study "
Miles Halstead
"A highly enjoyable, thoroughly demanding course. Great for anyone who has an enquiring mind (well taught as well!)"
Tom Roebuck-Rouse
