Philosophy & Ethics *NEW*

Entry Requirements

Grade 6 in GCSE English Language & Grade 6 in GCSE Humanities.

About This Course

The course has been designed to provide a thought-provoking programme of study for students, whilst providing the academic rigour to prepare them for progression to Higher Education. This qualification is designed to help students develop a greater understanding of the disciplines of philosophy and ethics and their impact, in addition to the development of Christian and secular ideas. Students will develop their skills of critical analysis in order to construct balanced, informed arguments and responses to philosophical and ethical arguments and ideas. This course aims to engage learners thoroughly and develop an interest in philosophical ideas, which extend beyond the classroom and can be applied to the world around them.

Course Content & Assessment

Philosophy – this involves the study of:

• the ideas and influences of ancient philosophical thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle.
• Philosophical ideas about the nature and existence of God, good and evil, the relationship between the body and the soul, and life after death.

Ethics – this involves the study of:

• ethical language and thought and the works of influential thinkers.
• ethical theory and ideas such as free will, which are then applied to issues of importance such as the environment, euthanasia, business ethics, and sexual ethics.

The Development of Christian Thought – this involved the study of:

• the ideas of Christian philosophers such as Aquinas.
• Christian values, beliefs and teachings and how these have developed over time.
• Christian responses to challenges and significant contemporary issues, such as morality, gender roles and secularisation.

There will be 3 examinations in Philosophy, Ethics and Development of Christian thought.

The exam for each component is worth 120 marks and represents 33.3% of the total marks for A Level.

The exams will take the form of externally assessed written papers, lasting 2 hours each.

What could this course lead to?

Candidates who are interested in studying English, Philosophy, History, Anthropology, Social Studies, law and, of course, Theology and Religious Studies at degree level are particularly welcomed. It is also a useful complementary Course for those hoping to study medicine. Philosophy and Ethics is considered a particularly suitable qualification for all kinds of work, especially social work, management, civil service posts, politics, teaching, nursing and other work with children.