Religious Studies

Course summary

Many students go on to study philosophy, theology, law, criminology, medicine, sciences, philosophy, politics and economics, English, history and social sciences. Career paths could be a doctor/other medical professional, lawyer, journalist, teacher, police force, politics and business management. Component 1: A Study of Religion (Christianity or Islam) Written examination: 2 hours (33⅓% of qualification) There will be four themes within each option: - religious figures and sacred texts - religious concepts and religious life - significant social and historical developments in religious thought; (e.g. gender in Christianity) - religious practices and religious identity Component 2: Philosophy of Religion Written examination: 2 hours (33⅓% of qualification) There will be four themes within this component: - arguments for the existence of God (e.g. design argument) - challenges to religious belief (e.g. evil and suffering) - religious experience (e.g. miracles) - religious language (e.g. language games) Component 3: Religion and Ethics Written examination: 2 hours (33⅓% of qualification) There will be four themes within this component: - ethical thought - deontological ethics (e.g. natural law) - teleological ethics (e.g. utilitarian ethics) - determinism and free will