Philosophy

Reasons to study this course

Consider the big questions such as: ‘What is knowledge?’ ‘What do good, bad, right and wrong really mean?’ ‘Is the concept of God incoherent?’ and ‘What is mind?’
Philosophy is a highly-regarded subject that will strongly support university applications.

What you will need to study this course

self-motivation
ability to work independently
enthusiasm for Philosophy
ability to think conceptually and to grasp complex ideas
high level writing skills
ability to read and understand challenging texts
English GCSE grade 6 or above, average GCSE grade of 6 or above.

What you will study

Year 1 – Epistemology (the theory of knowledge) and Ethics.

Year 2 – Philosophy of Mind and Philosophy of Religion. You will develop your knowledge of the most profound areas of human thought and will possess abilities to discuss, and critically evaluate, the most complex ideas in both verbal and written formats.

Please note: Philosophy can only be taken as a two-year A-Level course.

How you will be assessed

Year 1 – mock exam

Year 2 (A-Level) – three-hour exam

Exams will be a mixture of compulsory short and long essay questions.

Priestley Extra

Philosophy Society meets fortnightly for students to engage in wider debates. Students are also encouraged to complete an Extended Project (EPQ) relating to a topic of their own choice.

Progression

University as well as careers in teaching, public services, science, caring professions and jobs in the private sector.

Choosing Your Study Programme

What can you study ?
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