Why study Religious Studies at Abbey College Birmingham?

Studying Religious Studies at Abbey College allows students to engage with the many philosophical and ethical questions that the study of RS presents, in a comfortable environment.  It is a subject that inspires thought and contemplation of the world we live in, it also helps students understand the impact of individuals and their role in society.  We have especially small classes so discussions are able to flourish, allowing each student every opportunity to contribute and gain confidence in doing so.

Subject Overview.

AS and A2 courses are designed to complement each other, giving students thorough understanding of major philosophical and ethics theories.  We begin AS by exploring the ethical theories of Utilitarianism and Situation Ethics and apply them to issues surrounding abortion, euthanasia and genetic engineering.  During the second half of the year, we will explore traditional arguments for the existence of God and how they have been challenged by science, atheism and psychology.  We continue to explore major philosophical ideas at A2 including beliefs surrounding life after death and the challenges posed by the presence of evil in the world to the belief in God.  The final module draws together students' learning over the duration of the course and is assessed by one extended essay.

Teaching approaches

With small groups, Religious Studies classes offers a flexible approach to teaching which focuses on the learning needs of each student.  During the lesson, students will undertake a variety of activities including, discussions, debates, group work, presentations, paired work as well as individual written tasks.  A variety of types of media are used to promote thought including newspaper and video clips to link current events with the ideas of study.

Higher Education Opportunities

Religious Studies is considered an academic subject in all universities and equips students with essential skills of debate, critical analysis, self-expression and extended essay writing.  These skills are required in many professions such as law, social work, police and media.  An emphasis on medical ethics at AS also makes it very suitable for those thinking of a career inside the medical profession, whether nursing or as a doctor.

Supportive Material

http://web.aqa.org.uk/qual/gce/humanities/religious_studies_overview.php

http://www.reonline.org.uk/

Teaching staff: Shelagh Pape.