United Kingdom A Level Religious Studies/Theology and Philosophy Syllabus

This syllabus outlines the different specifications offered by the major examination boards in the United Kingdom for the A Level Religious Studies/Theology and Philosophy qualification. Students typically choose one examination board for their studies.

AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance)

AQA offers a specification with a focus on the study of religion and philosophical and ethical viewpoints. The syllabus covers topics such as sources of wisdom and authority, God and ultimate reality, self, death and the afterlife, good conduct and key moral principles, expressions of religious identity, religion, gender and sexuality, religion and science, and religion and secularisation.

OCR (Oxford, Cambridge and RSA Examinations)

OCR's A Level Religious Studies syllabus covers three components: Philosophy of Religion, Religion and Ethics, and a chosen study of a specific religion (Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, or Hinduism). The Philosophy of Religion component explores ancient philosophical influences, the nature of the soul, mind and body, and arguments for and against the existence of God. The Religion and Ethics component delves into normative ethical theories and applied ethics. The study of a specific religion involves examining its key beliefs, practices, and development.

Edexcel (Pearson Edexcel)

Edexcel's A Level Religious Studies offers students a choice of three papers from four areas of study: Philosophy of Religion, Religion and Ethics, New Testament Studies, and Developments in Christian Thought. The Philosophy of Religion component explores philosophical arguments for and against the existence of God, the problem of evil, and religious experience. The Religion and Ethics component examines ethical theories, such as utilitarianism and Kantian ethics, and their application to contemporary moral issues. The New Testament Studies and Developments in Christian Thought components focus on the development of Christian thought and practice.

WJEC/Eduqas (Welsh Joint Education Committee/Educational Qualifications Wales)

The WJEC/Eduqas A Level Religious Studies syllabus comprises three components: Philosophy of Religion, Religion and Ethics, and a study of one of the six major world religions. The Philosophy of Religion component explores arguments for and against the existence of God, the nature of religious experience, and the problem of evil. The Religion and Ethics component examines different ethical theories and their application to moral issues. The study of a specific religion involves exploring its key beliefs, practices, and impact on society.