Course Entry Requirements
Grade 5 in Religious Studies (if studied) and a grade 5 in GCSE English Language.
Introduction
During this course you will explore key ideas, concepts, themes and practices. This is a highly regarded subject valuable for a range of HE courses and careers.
What you will study
- Philosophy of Religion: The study of Ancient Greek philosophers, Plato and Aristotle, arguments for the existence of God, challenges to religious belief, and claims to religious experience.
- Ethics: You will focus on questions relating to moral decision-making, the nature of ethical language, and applied issues including euthanasia and business ethics.
- Buddhism: This includes religious figures and sacred texts; religious concepts and religious life; social and historical developments in religious thought; and religious practices/identity.
Assessments
Regular essays will enable you to develop the writing skills, expressing complex ideas. There are three exams at the end of year two to assess your investigation of, and response to the many issues explored during the course.
Course Support
- Support from friendly, approachable tutors to help you achieve your potential
- A range of different teaching styles and methods
- One-to-one tutorials outside of class time
- Regular group tutorials
Enrichment Activities
- Annual visits to universities
- Trips to a Buddhist Centre, Liverpool Cathedrals, Museums and the Walker Art Gallery
- Take part in the Royal Institute of Philosophy’s certified ‘Philosophy: The Classics’ course
- A student-run Philosophy Society – discussions, films and guest speakers
Progression
Philosophy, Ethics and Religion is a highly respected subject that will teach you to think clearly and express yourself coherently; skills valued by universities and employers.
Career Opportunities
Employers know that this subject teaches people to think clearly and to express themselves coherently. The skills that you will develop in analysis and argument are valuable in a range of careers. For example, former students are accountants, HR officers, solicitors, criminal psychologists, speech therapists, nurses, teachers and too many more to mention.
Videos
Click the link below to view the Course Introduction video

Further Information
Philosophy, Ethics & Religion Course Leaflet
Exam Board Course Specification
Guest lecture from the University of Manchester
Ethics Cup at the University of Liverpool