WJEC AS/A2 Religious Studies Level 3

In a nutshell

This course covers a broad yet insightful look into religious studies across the world

This course is for you if...

... You’re curious about other cultures
... You’re hardworking and self-motivated
... You’re interested in the philosophy of religion

What will I be doing?

AS Level

You’ll study 2 modules:

• Buddhism includes units on religious figures and sacred texts, central beliefs and concepts, Buddhist lifestyle and religious practices.
• An introduction to religion and ethics and the philosophy of religion includes units on ethical thought, such as virtue ethics and ethical egoism; Aquinas ' natural law theory, situation ethics, utilitarianism; arguments for the existence of God, the problem of evil and suffering and religious experience.

A2 Level

You’ll study 3 modules:

• Buddhism includes units on religious figures and texts, significant historical and social developments in religious thought and religious practices that shape religious identity.
• Religion and ethics include units on ethical thought, deontological ethics, determinism and free will.
• The philosophy of religion includes units on challenges to religious belief, religious experience and religious language.

You’ be assessed via (AS):

• Buddhism: One examination of 1 hour 15 minutes (15% of total qualification);
• An introduction to religion and ethics and the philosophy of religion: One examination of 1 hour and 45 minutes (25% of total qualification).

(A2):

• One exam of 1 hour and 30 minutes in each of the three modules:
• Buddhism, Ethics and the Philosophy of religion have equal weighting at 20% each of total qualification (AS = 40% and A2 = 60%).

Upon completion, you’ll achieve:

• AS Level Religious Studies
• A Level Religious Studies
• Skills activities
• English and Maths

What is expected of me?

To enter this course, you’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including English/Welsh First Language, Maths/Maths Numeracy and Religious Studies.

Full commitment to attendance is required, as is respect for others, enthusiasm for the subject and self-motivation. You’ll be continually assessed and there’s an expectation that you’ll continue your studies and coursework during your own time.

What comes next?

With a qualification in religious studies, you can go on to higher education or find employment in a wide variety of areas, including teaching, banking, marketing, administration, management, social work, nursing, law and the police.

Additional information

You’ll need to make financial contributions to the travel cost of educational visits.