This linear A Level Philosophy, Ethics & Religion course offers students the opportunity to explore key ideas, concepts, themes and practices.

The first strand, Philosophy of Religion, involves the study of Ancient Greek philosophers, Plato and Aristotle, arguments for the existence of God, challenges to religious belief, and claims to religious experience. The second strand, Ethics, focusses on questions relating to moral decision-making, the nature of ethical language, and applied issues including euthanasia and business ethics. The final strand of the course provides the opportunity for in-depth study of one religion (either Buddhism or Christianity), with coverage of key religious figures, sacred texts, religious life, social and historical developments, and religious identity.

The overarching aim of this course is to help students develop the ability to think critically and creatively, to write excellent essays and conduct effective research, alongside the ability to engage in intellectual discourse confidently and effectively.

Comments from former students give a good idea of the appeal of Philosophy, Ethics & Religion:

“I’ve enjoyed examining the whole question of right and wrong. When people say that you shouldn’t use genetic engineering how do they know?”

“It’s a subject that teaches you to analyse and to argue. It goes brilliantly with my other subjects, Psychology, Sociology and English.”

Where does this A Level Philosophy, Ethics & Religion course lead?

The A Level qualification you will gain has a long pedigree and is a highly respected subject. A better question might be: What can’t I do with it? Employers and universities know that this subject teaches people to think clearly and to express themselves coherently. In conclusion, the skills that you will develop in analysis and argument are valuable in a range of careers. For example, former students are accountants, personnel officers, solicitors, criminal psychologists, speech therapists, nurses, teachers and too many more to mention.

Course Entry Requirements

Grade 5 in Religious Studies (if studied) and a grade 5 in either GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Philosophy, Ethics & Religion Course Leaflet

Click the link below to view the Course Introduction video

A Level Philosophy, Ethics & Religion Course Introduction video

Click here to take a 360 tour of the Philosophy, Ethics & Religion classroom

Exam Board Course Specification

What our students say about Philosophy, Ethics & Religion

News

Philosophy Trip to Liverpool

Philosophy, Ethics & Religion Alumni

Jess Molyneux

What Our Students Say

From day one, Carmel has consistently been a place for me to flourish; especially the PER department.

What’s special about the subject is how it gives you a greater world view, a critical perception of what we consider right and wrong, and helps you perfect your analysis skills through essay writing. I often find myself using the evaluation skills that are emphasised in this subject in both my other A-Levels, especially since all my subjects are essay based. As a department we’ve taken trips to Liverpool Cathedral and the Walker Art Gallery which was a perfect place to discuss how philosophical problems, such as Plato’s theory of forms, are expressed through classical art.

After Carmel, I hope to go to university to study classics, where the knowledge and skills of logic, analysis and evaluation I’ve gained through studying PER will be transferable, and truly invaluable.

Daniel Darwent