AS/A2 in Religious Studies

Duration:1 Year Fee: Under 24 year old :
Full-Time courses for 16-18 School Leavers are Free.

If you are studying at Level 1 or 2 AND you meet the Eligible Benefit criteria tuition fees will be waived. (Registration Fees will still apply). If you are studying at Level 3 AND you meet the Eligible Benefit criteria AND are aged between 19 and 23, tuition fees will be waived. Tuition fees will not be waived for students aged over 23 studying a Level 3 or higher course, however these students may qualify for a 24+ Advanced Learning Loan.
Course Content: The Study of Religion seeks to answer some of the basic questions we often ask, such as;

Is there a God? Where did the universe come from? Does life have a purpose and meaning?

On this course we will seek to grapple with these issues, we will also explore past and present thinking about ‘religion’. At AS level the AQA specification offers an insight into the study of religion in an academic context. It will be of value to both students from faith backgrounds, and those with no faith or religious persuasion. At AS level (Year 1) we will specifically be looking at the learning units concerned with Ethics and The Philosophy of Religion.

We will examine various views regarding the arguments for and against creation, look at what is meant by a ‘religious experience’ and consider Atheism, and psychology and religion.

At A2 Level we will look at things in greater depth and seek to relate our study and the topics covered to current issues. A2 concentrates much more on a deeper understanding of the subject, and how what we believe impacts our decisions and actions. We will look at some challenges confronting Religious Faith, e.g. The problem of evil.

Entry Qualification: 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including GCSE English Language. It is not necessary to have taken RS at GCSE. You need a desire to find out more about religion and its role in society. Special Features: Official assessment is by examination. AS is 2 papers of 1 hour 15 minutes each where you will be required to write 2 essays on each paper. There will be plenty of opportunity to practise essay writing skills as part of class time. In addition, your progress will be assessed informally by classwork, homework and observation of your contributions in class. Course Format: There are 3 lessons of 1.5 hours each spread across the week. We aim to involve all students as much as possible in the learning process so you will be given plenty of opportunity to discuss topics in the classroom. Progression: Students must achieve a minimum grade D at AS Level to progress on to A2 Religious Studies. Many students progress on to university after A Levels.

Religious Studies combines well with subjects such as English, History, Sociology and Government & Politics.