Religious Studies

Why study Religious Studies?

Religious Studies (RS) is a subject that poses significant questions and encourages you to think deeply about complex philosophical and ethical issues. By studying Religious Studies, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with challenging ideas, evaluate different perspectives, and develop your own positions on key topics such as the existence of God, evil and suffering, and religious experience, and you’ll gain an insight into the role and significance of Christianity in a modern context.

Entry requirements 

Ideally, you’ll have studied RS at GCSE level, although this is not essential. A Grade 7 or above would be expected at GCSE, or a Grade 7 in an equivalent subject such as History or Classical Civilisation if you haven’t previously taken the subject. An open mind and a willingness to embrace new and challenging ideas are essential for success in A Level Religious Studies. 

Course content 

Some of the topics studied include: 

• Philosophy of Religion: Plato and Aristotle, questions of the soul, mind and body, arguments for the existence of God, evil and suffering, religious experience, and miracles 
• Ethics and religion: ethical theories such as Utilitarianism and Kantian ethics, applied to issues in business ethics, sexual ethics, and end-of-life 
• Study of Christianity: sources of wisdom and authority, God, self and death, good conduct and key moral principles 

Relevance 

Religious Studies encourages you to think critically about complex philosophical and ethical issues that affect individuals and society. By studying Religious Studies, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of different perspectives on key topics such as morality, identity, and belief, and develop skills in evaluating and forming your own opinions – all of which are crucial for navigating the wider world.

Career versatility 

An A Level in Religious Studies can lead to a variety of university courses and careers, including law, journalism, social services, teaching, medicine, and dentistry. The subject develops valuable skills in working with people, understanding different perspectives, and communicating complex ideas, all of which are key in the AI age, where information and data analysis are becoming more automated.

Academic flexibility and skills developed: 

Religious Studies pairs well with a range of subjects, including History, and English, and develops key skills in critical thinking, research, and communication. By studying Religious Studies, you’ll develop your ability to read, research, and assimilate new materials, write clear and logical written answers, and express your views in discussion and debate. You’ll also have the opportunity to reflect on your own views and critically evaluate a wide range of alternative perspectives. As you progress to Higher Education, these skills will be invaluable. 

Religious Studies allows you to look at the culture of different groups of people, the history of religions, and try to answer some of the most important questions for humanity and our existence. It teaches you how to develop your own opinions and arguments on debates that have continued since ancient times.