Course Summary

What do you know and why do you know it? What is right and wrong and how should we decide? Who are we and why are we here? Philosophy seeks to address these fundamental questions of truth and falsehood, right and wrong, what is it to be a God and what is it to be human.

For this subject, students are enabled to access ideas of western philosophical thinking by uncovering assumption and discussing alternatives. Students will develop the capability to make knowledgeable decisions by examining the consequences of actions and enhancing their ability to write and communicate clearly and effectively.

Entry requirements

You will need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English Language at grade 5 (C/B) and Maths at grade 4 (C).

A recent school report will be required which demonstrates a committed attitude to learning.

It is assumed that students enrol on a two-year A-level programme of study consisting of three or more subjects. However, students will be expected to demonstrate a committed attitude to learning and make positive progress in their first year of study.

Course Content

Epistemology

• What is knowledge?
• Perception as a source of knowledge
• Reason as a source of knowledge
• The limits of knowledge

Moral Philosophy

• Utilitarianism
• Kantian deontological ethics
• Aristotelian virtue ethics
• Applied ethics
• Meta-ethics

Metaphysics of God

• The concept and nature of ‘God’
• Arguments relating to the existence of God
• Religious language

Metaphysics of Mind

• What do we mean by ‘mind’?
• Dualist theories
• Physicalist theories
• Functionalism

How will I be assessed?

Both the first and second year are assessed via two three-hour examinations at the end of the second year. Both exams account for 50% of the overall A-level qualification.

Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?

No

What can I do after this course?

Philosophy is the ultimate "transferable work skill."  With its emphasis on reason and argumentation, philosophy is an excellent preparation for a career in law, religion, business, international diplomacy, social work, medical management or writing as well as undergraduate education.

Jobs directly related to philosophy, after further study, could include:

• Further education teacher
• Higher education lecturer
• Secondary school teacher

Jobs where knowledge of philosophy could be useful include:

• Barrister
• Civil Service fast streamer
• Health service manager
• Local government officer
• Marketing executive
• Newspaper journalist
• Psychotherapist
• Recruitment consultant
• Solicitor
• Stockbroker

Note - you only need to make one application for A-levels. You can specify the additional A-Levels you wish to study when you fill out the application form

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