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Theology (Religious Studies)​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Theology A Level is an exciting subject which explores three distinct areas of inquiry, each exploring a range of religious, non-religious and philosophical perspectives. The three aspects of the OCR Religious Studies (H573) course are:

  • Ethics (Moral Philosophy)
  • Philosophy of Religion
  • Themes and Issues in Christian Thought

Part One: Ethics

The Ethics component asks fundamental questions like: What is good? How should I behave? What makes an action right or wrong? What does it mean to live well? 
Various ethical theories will be explored that attempt to answer the above questions, including: Deontological Ethics (Kant), Consequentualism (Utilitarianism) and Natural Law (associated with Thomas Aquinas) 
Ethical issues such as euthanasia, abortion, and business ethics will also be discussed, and students will be required to come to reasoned judgements on their ethical implications. 

Part Two: Philosophy of Religion

The Philosophy of Religion component examines fundamental questions about the nature of religion, existence of God, and religious experience. It involves critical exploration of philosophical arguments, religious concepts, and challenges to religious belief. Key topics often include

  • Arguments for the Existence of God (Ontological Argument, Cosmological Argument, Teleological (Design) Argument, arguments from Religious Experience 
  • Challenges to the Existence of God (Problem of Evil and Religious attempts to explain evil)

Part Three: Themes and Issues in Christian Thought

Debates and issues in Christian thought that students will explore include the following: Does the concept of original sin make sense? Why did Jesus have to die? Can we trust the Biblical accounts of Jesus’ life? How do we know who God is? Are non-Christians going to Hell according to Christianity? Is it ever justified to commit acts of violence in the name of Christianity? Can a person be a feminist, a socialist, and a Christian at the same time?

Examinations Required: Three 2 hour exams.

  • Philosophy of Religion
  • Religion and Ethics
  • Development in Religious Thought 

Entry Requirements: GCSEs at grade 6 or above in English language and mathematics and 3 other GCSEs at grade 6 or above including Short or Full course RE. (Negotiable if students have not taken GCSE RE)

Exam Board & Syllabus Names: OCR Religious Studies (H573)