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Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) A Level

  • 3

    Level
    Level 3

  • Duration
    2 years

  • Start Date
    September 2026

  • Venue
    City College Norwich campus

  • Course Code
    SA080

Start Date

  • September 2026, Full Time, Day

What You Will Study

A Level Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) is the ideal course for those who often find themselves thinking through the big questions in life.

Throughout this course you will explore the world of philosophy and ethics, giving you the opportunity to think through questions such as whether there is a God or not, and how we can know the right thing to do in any situation.

In addition, you will explore Eastern philosophical thought and religion in the form of Buddhism. You will study its key ideas, such as how we can escape suffering, and examine concepts such as meditation, karma, and rebirth.

A Level Religious Studies is a thought-provoking subject that challenges you academically and personally, and inspires plenty of classroom discussion and debate.

Throughout the ethics element of the course, you will apply the theories you have learned to some of the biggest moral dilemmas of our day; these include assisted dying, and how we should balance human needs with animal rights. Studying Buddhism is a unique opportunity to learn about a religion that has inspired much western interest in meditation and spirituality. There may also be the valuable opportunity to visit a Buddhist temple, helping to support your learning further.

Why Choose City College Norwich?

Industry standard facilities

At our college you will have access to industry-standard facilities and get to use top of the range equipment. On our campus you’ll find media suites, TV studios, design labs, workshops, hair & beauty salons, working kitchens and a live theatre.

Gain real experiences of work

All of our courses will provide you with outstanding experiences of work and prepare you for your future career. You will work with real employers and customers and build connections.

A unique student experience

This is what really sets us apart. At our college you will experience the freedom to be yourself. Being part of an active Students’ Union, having opportunities to travel and enjoying live entertainment are just a few of the amazing opportunities available to you.

Entry Requirements

You will need to have achieved a minimum of six GCSEs at grade 4 or above, with at least four of these at grade 5 or above. A minimum of grade 5 in GCSE English language is required. If you have taken GCSE religious studies or philosophy, you should have achieved a minimum of grade 5.

How You Will Be Assessed

You will be assessed through two written exams at the end of your second year.

Course Progression

This course allows you to gain the critical and evaluative skills sought by higher education, making it a valuable course if progressing to arts and social science subjects at university.

Where Your Course Can Take You

With an A Level in Religious Studies, you are taking your first steps towards a career in range of fields, such as journalism, law, youth work, teaching, and politics. Employers will particularly value the way you can debate and contextualise different standpoints, which will benefit you in a variety of careers.

Fees

If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16-18 on the 31st August before the start of your course, tuition fees are free. If you are aged 19 and over please contact the Advice Shop

Why Choose City College Norwich?

Industry standard facilities

At our college you will have access to industry-standard facilities and get to use top of the range equipment. On our campus you’ll find media suites, TV studios, design labs, workshops, hair & beauty salons, working kitchens and a live theatre.

Gain real experiences of work

All of our courses will provide you with outstanding experiences of work and prepare you for your future career. You will work with real employers and customers and build connections.

A unique student experience

This is what really sets us apart. At our college you will experience the freedom to be yourself. Being part of an active Students’ Union, having opportunities to travel and enjoying live entertainment are just a few of the amazing opportunities available to you.