AS/A Level: Ancient History | Archaeology | Critical Thinking | Geography |General Studies | Government & Politics | History | Philosophy

AS/A Level - Philosophy
Entry Requirements:

Philosophy is a rigorous and more academic subject that demands a high level of literacy. A grade B in English Language is essential.

About the Subject:
Philosophy is a subject which is difficult to pin down with a simple definition, because its subject matter covers more or less the entire basis of human understanding.
Suitable Subject Combinations:
Again, Philosophy is a broad discipline and sits comfortably in combination with a whole range of other subjects. More common combinations are perhaps with Humanities subjects like English, Religious Studies, Politics, Sociology, Psychology, History, Economics. But the subject also has some links to subjects in the field of Sciences and Modern Languages.
Course Content:

'AS' Level - First year of course:

In the first year of the course, students will study four topics. “Reason and Experience” analyses whether we are born with knowledge or whether all knowledge comes from experience. “Knowledge of the External World” questions whether we see the world as it really is. The other two topics focus on the philosophy of religion. The course examines the idea of God and arguments for God’s existence.

'A' Level - Second year of course:

On the ‘A2’ course, students will further develop their understanding of the key themes raised at AS Level. Students will have the opportunity to address key questions, such as “What is the Mind?”and “What is the Relationship between the Mind and the Body?”. The course then continues on to look at faith and whether or not it is possible to believe in miracles. Students on the course also get the chance to study a classic philosophical text: Descartes’ “Meditations”.

Assessment:
The AS level qualification is gained by the completion of two exams. The second year of the course is also assessed through examination. Two exams are taken in the summer term, the first focuses on the key themes, while the second assesses knowledge of the philosophical text.
Progression:
Philosophy is well suited to a wide range of careers and courses in higher education due to its focus on thought, evaluation, analysis and information use. It is particularly suited to areas like Law, the Police, the Civil Service, charity work, business, the Armed Forces, and many others.