Reasons to study this course
- You want to study ethics and in particular the Buddhist religion in depth.
- You want to tackle the greatest philosophical theories and ideas.
- You aim to become an enlightened thinker, being able to contribute to the ethical debates of the greatest minds.
What you will need to study this course
- strong academic discipline and ability
- an enquiring, critical and reflective approach
- ability to work independently
- minimum GCSE grade 4 or above in English
- GCSE Religious Studies (either full or short course) is not essential but would be helpful
What you will study
Year 1 (AS) – Buddhism in depth, philosophy of religion (including the arguments for the existence of God) and religious ethics (including natural law and utilitarianism).
Year 2 (A-Level) – Buddhism in further depth, miracles, religious language, conscience, meta-ethics and free will and determinism.
How you will be assessed
Year 1 (AS) – one two-hour exam and a one-hour exam
Year 2 (A-Level) – two exams, each three hours
Priestley Extra
Annual RS trip to Manchester to explore the Buddhist Temple and personal Q & A with a Buddhist monk. External speakers who share their experiences and bring religion to life.
Progression
Students who have studied Religious Studies go on to university and a variety of careers including teaching, social work, public services, caring professions and jobs within the private sector.
Recommended reading
To get started with this course, you can get a flavour with the following reading list;
- Frye, J, 2017. Religious Studies for A-Level Year 1 and AS
- Frye, J, et al, 2017. Religious Studies for A-Level Year 2
- Davies, B. 1983, 1993, 2004. An Introduction to Philosophy of Religion
- Cole, P. 2008. Philosophy of Religion (Access to Religion)
- Jordan, A, Lockyer N and Tate, E. 1999. Philosophy of Religion for A-Level
- Vardy, P and Arliss, J. 2003. The Thinkers Guide to God
- Vary, P and Vardy, C. 2013. God Matters
- Thompson, M. 2010. Understand the Philosophy of Religion: Teach Yourself
- Gaarder, J. 1995. Sophie’s World
- Hansell, N. 2016. The Sage Train (Philosophy comes to Life)
- Bowie, R. 2001. Ethical Studies
- Vardy, P and Grosch, P. 1999. The Puzzle of Ethics
- Vary, P and Vardy, C. 2012. Ethics Matters
- Thompson, M. 2010. Understand Ethics: Teach Yourself
- RS Review
