Religious Studies
Religious Studies A Level encourages you to explore some of the biggest questions about human existence, morality, belief and society. Through the study of philosophy, ethics and religious thought, you'll examine different viewpoints, evaluate arguments and learn to challenge beliefs and assumptions in a respectful way.
If you enjoy discussing ideas, analysing different perspectives and developing well-reasoned arguments, this course offers an engaging and rewarding challenge. At St Brendan's, you'll develop valuable academic skills while exploring topics that are relevant to contemporary society, culture and global issues.
- Qualification
- A Level
- Exam Board
- OCR
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study Religious Studies at St Brendan’s?
Religious Studies A-level consists of 3 main areas of study.
Philosophy considers some big questions of human existence. Why are we here? What is a human? Do we have a soul? What might happen after we die? Can we resolve the problem of evil and suffering? We consider these questions alongside a study of how thinkers over time have responded to them, and consider what makes a sound argument.
Ethics greets us each morning in the newspapers and bids us good night on the evening news. Questions and dilemmas challenge us on a personal level all the time in our relationships at home, college or in society. You will study how people come to make decisions on a whole range of issues in medicine, business and sexuality.
In the third module, Developments in Christian Thought, you will study Christianity and focus on its key beliefs and practices, as well as how these have developed over time. This will also provide an opportunity to reflect on and explore the place and role of religion in the modern world, considering how law and society impact on and are changed by religion.
Entry requirements
- 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
- GCSE English Language grade 4 or above
- GCSE Maths at grade 3 or above
- Good standard of essay writing
Course examination breakdown
What else do I need to know?
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
GCSE English Language grade 4 or above
GCSE Maths at grade 3 or above
Good standard of essay writing
- Unit 1 – Philosophy
- Unit 2 – Ethics
- Unit 3 – Developments in Christian thought
Skills Developed
- Critical thinking and reasoning
- Essay writing and extended responses
- Analysis and evaluation of arguments
- Research and independent study
- Structured discussion and debate
- Interpretation of different viewpoints
- Communication and presentation skills
The course is taught through a combination of:
- Teacher-led lessons
- Group discussion
- Independent research
- Presentations
- Guided reading
- Structured debate
- Essay practice
- Analysis of primary sources
The three areas of study are taught in a connected way, helping you build a deeper understanding of key themes and concepts across the course. Regular written tasks and examination-style questions help you develop confidence and academic skills throughout the two years. At the end of each topic you will be assessed by completing a written task, usually an essay written in timed conditions, modelled on an examination question.
Assessment is through three written examinations:
- Unit 1: Philosophy – 2-hour written examination
- Unit 2: Ethics – 2-hour written examination
- Unit 3: Developments in Christian Thought – 2-hour written examination
Throughout the course, you'll complete regular written assessments and receive detailed feedback to help you improve your argument development, essay structure and examination technique
Students have access to:
- Specialist Religious Studies textbooks
- Theological and philosophical literature
- Structured task booklets
- Online learning resources
- Presentation materials
- College library resources
These resources support independent learning, wider reading and examination preparation
There are no specific restricted subject combinations for this course.
Religious Studies is valued by universities because of the analytical, evaluative and communication skills it develops. The course can support progression into:
- Philosophy
- Theology and Religious Studies
- Teaching
- Law
- Politics and International Relations
- History
- Journalism
- Sociology
- Social Sciences
It is also a popular supporting subject for students considering careers in Medicine, Law, Journalism, Public Service and the Civil Service.
There is a busy Chaplaincy programme at St Brendan’s which offers students who are interested in religion to explore faith further and to engage in a variety of social justice issues through a certificated CAFOD Young Leaders programme. There might also be the opportunity to listen to a guest speaker or attend a conference.
Progression opportunities
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