Philosophy, Religion & Ethics

Applications Open: 5th December 2025

Applications Close: 31st January 2026

Entry Requirements: 5 GCSE grades of 4 or above of which must include English & Maths. Then individual subject criteria

Science and Maths - require level 7 in subject to study (plus 6 in maths for science subjects)

Most other courses require level 6 to study

Studying Philosophy, Religion and Ethics provides an exciting opportunity to consider the big questions in life such as why we are here, matters of right and wrong and issues surrounding belief. Philosophy, Religion and Ethics teaches students how to think critically, challenge assumptions and construct arguments. It also helps them to develop a broad understanding of the beliefs that influence societies and individuals.

This subject provides you with the opportunity to ask questions such as:

• “Do you need to be religious to be good?”
• “Does God exist?”
• “What influences our attitudes to gender and sex?”
• “Do religious views have continuing relevance for medical ethics?”
• Can war ever be right?

You will learn from a combination of whole class discussion and individual study where you can reflect upon your own opinions and those of others.

This A Level involves three examinations at the end of Year 13 which are 2 hours long and on the following themes: (1) Philosophy of Religion; (2) Ethics; and (3) the Study of Religion. There is no coursework element and no AS course is offered.

Students will need to have a grade 6 or above in Religious Studies. If they have not taken Religious Studies previously, they will need a grade 6 or above in at least one of English Literature or History.  It is also vital to have a keen interest in the subject as a whole.

Philosophy, Religion and Ethics is highly regarded by universities and employers and equips students well for a broad range of careers including in Law, Government, Civil Service, Social Work, the Police, Teaching, Medicine and Broadcasting. Students often subsequently go on to study ‘Religious Studies’, ‘Philosophy’, ‘Religion and Ethics’ or ‘Liberal Arts’ at university. Philosophy is a also a popular choice as part of a joint honours degree, for example, ‘Philosophy, Politics and Economics’ (‘PPE’) or ‘Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics’ (‘PPL’).