16-18 Courses, 16-18: A Levels

Religious Studies (A Level)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

GCSE Average Points Score: 4.25, Grade 5 English Language GCSE, Grade 4 Maths GCSE

Course information

If you are studying at Havering Sixth Form:

The Religious Studies (Ethical Philosophy) A-Level is taken with two other A-Levels, and pairs well with other subjects from the social sciences and humanities. The exam board is OCR and assessment consists of three two-hour exams (with three full-length essays and no shorter questions on each) at the end of the second year.

This qualification is designed to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of religious beliefs and teachings, as well as the disciplines of ethics and philosophy of religion. Students will develop their skills of critical analysis in order to construct balanced, informed arguments and responses to religious, philosophical and ethical ideas.

OCR A-Level Religious Studies course aims to engage learners thoroughly and develop an interest in religious studies which extends beyond the classroom and can be applied to the world around them.

The course is split into three components:

  • Philosophy of Religion: ancient philosophical influences (Plato and Aristotle); the nature of the soul, mind and body; arguments about the existence or non-existence of God; the nature and impact of religious experience; the challenge for religious belief of the problem of evil; ideas about the nature of God; issues in religious language.
  • Religion and Ethics: normative ethical theories (utilitarianism, Kantianism, natural law, and situation ethics); the application of ethical theory to two contemporary issues of importance (business ethics and euthanasia); ethical language and thought (meta-ethics); debates surrounding the significant idea of conscience; sexual ethics and the influence on ethical thought of developments in religious beliefs.
  • Developments in Christian Thought: religious beliefs, values and teachings, their interconnections and how they vary historically and in the contemporary world (Augustine on human nature, death and the afterlife); sources of religious wisdom and authority (knowledge of God' existence, Jesus); practices which shape and express religious identity, and how these vary within a tradition (Christian moral principles, Christian moral action); significant social and historical developments in theology and religious thought (religious pluralism and theology, religious pluralism and society); key themes related to the relationship between religion and society (gender and society, gender and theology, secularism, liberation theology and Marx).

The assessment method is 100% exam.

Progression

The skills that you will learn in religious studies will be useful to you in any number of degrees/careers; sociology, philosophy, politics, teaching, youth work or civil service to name just a few.

If you are studying at Attlee A Level Academy:

You will be assessed in two three hour written exams covering each component at the end of the second year of the course.

The course is split into two components:

A) Philosophy of religion and ethics:

Philosophy of religion: Arguments for the existence of God, Evil and suffering, Religious experience, Religious language, Miracles, Self and life after death

Ethics and religion: Ethical theories, Issues of human life and death, Issues of animal life and death, Introduction to meta-ethics, Free will and moral responsibility, Conscience, Bentham and Kant

B) Study of religion and dialogues

Focusing on Islam you will study the following topics: Sources of wisdom and authority, God, Self, death and afterlife, Good conduct and key moral principles, Expression of religious identity, Religion, gender and sexuality, Religion and science, Religion and secularisation, Religion and religious pluralism.

The dialogue between the philosophy of religion and religion. How religion is influenced by and has an influence on philosophy of religion in relation to the issues studied.

The dialogue between ethical studies and religion. How religion is influenced by and has an influence on ethical studies in relation to the issues studied.

Philosophy of Religion: The existence of god, evil & suffering, Miracles and self, life after death

Ethics and Religion: Ethical theories, issues of human life and death, issues of animal life and death, Introduction to meta-ethics, free will and moral responsibility, Conscience and Bentham and Kant

Study of Religion: Sources of wisdom and authority/Gods/ultimate reality, Self, death and afterlife, gender and sexuality/science/secularisation/pluralism

Key topics

  • Philosophy of religion
  • Religion and ethics
  • Developments in religious thought
  • Sources of wisdom and authority
  • Religion and society
  • Dialogues between philosophy, ethics and religion
  • Why study at NCC?

    • We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
    • Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
    • Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
    • Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
    • One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
    • Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
    • Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
    • Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
    • A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed

    If you’re aiming for university, a top career, or just want to keep your options open, A Levels at New City College give you the perfect springboard.

    You’ll study in a focused, supportive environment at our specialist sixth form campuses, choosing from a wide range of subjects to create the right combination for your goals. Alongside your studies, you’ll develop key skills in critical thinking, research, communication and leadership, all highly valued by universities and employers.

    With strong links to top universities and regular support from expert tutors, you’ll get the guidance you need to progress to higher education, apprenticeships, or straight into the world of work. Plus, enrichment opportunities like guest speakers, study trips, university visits and societies make your time with us more than just classroom learning.

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study or employment.

The skills that you will learn in religious studies will be useful to you in any number of degrees/careers; Sociology, Philosophy, Politics, Teaching, Youth work or Civil Service to name a few.

Life At NCC

Discover what life is like at the largest college in East London today!

Facilities for Students

At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.

Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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