Philosophy, Religion & Ethics
A Level
Course Description
Formerly known as Religious Studies
Philosophy, Religion & Ethics is a very well-established and highly regarded academic subject. It will enable you to explore and debate many of the controversial but important issues facing society today to an in-depth level. It will also increase your awareness of a great diversity of beliefs and ethical viewpoints. It is a facilitating A Level for university but can also lead to a career in community development, counselling, the police force, social work and youth work.
There are no additional entry requirements for this course. Please refer to the basic entry requirements.
As an international student you must:
- Demonstrate a suitable level of academic English, normally at CEFR level B1. For Student Visa applications Portsmouth College recommends a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 overall (with no component lower than 5) to best succeed in your studies.
- Demonstrate that you are competent to study at Level 3 in your chosen subjects during your application, including certificates of your qualifications and subject specific requirements such as evidence of an art portfolio for entry on to one of our Art courses.
- Successfully complete a Skype interview with the College to discuss and assess your subject choices.
You will study a major world religion in depth: its sources of authority, the purpose of life on earth, beliefs about death and the afterlife, how life should be lived, issues relating to gender, sexuality, multiculturalism and scientific developments. You will explore philosophical ideas about God, the problem of evil and suffering in the world, the nature of religious experiences and questions about the existence of a soul. You will also explore a variety of ways in which we make moral decisions, based on religious and secular ideas.
We have recently named the course Philosophy, Religion and Ethics to more accurately represent the content of the newly reformed A Level, however you will qualify with an A Level in Religious Studies.
This is an excellent course that will develop students’ academic writing skills, critical evaluation and ability to reach credible conclusions. Students will also develop a deeper understanding of contemporary political debate on many issues and will be able to engage in academic discussions on current ethical questions. Students will have a much clearer understanding of multicultural Britain and issues of equality, diversity, representation and integration.
100% final exam
Students have the opportunity to go on local and international trips, including visits to mosques, university lectures, museums and art exhibitions. The E6 programme supports your progression after College, with advice and help regarding employment and higher education.
Many students go onto higher education, particularly to study degrees at university. This course provides transferable skills, including skills of analysis and evaluation, alongside extensive employment opportunities in career areas such as the police, social work, teaching, politics and law.
Mock exams will be announced to help you prepare for the final exams.
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