About the course
This A Level is included within the following A Level pathways as a RECOMMENDED CORE subject: Humanities. It is included in the following pathways as a RECOMMENDED ADDITIONAL SUBJECT: Business and Entrepreneurship; English and Communications; Law and Legal; Social Sciences. However, you can choose Philosophy with any A Level/equivalent combination – there is plenty of choice and flexibility.
What is real? Is the truth out there? Is there such a thing as God or right conduct? And how do we go about finding out? These and other fundamental questions about ourselves and the world are the stuff of Philosophy. How do we know what’s right & wrong and where does it come from? How do we understand the idea of God? What is the mind?
Topics in Year One include: Epistemology (the way we see the world and the knowledge we can gain); Moral Philosophy. Topics in Year Two include: Metaphysics of God; Metaphysics of mind.
You will study the course for 4.5 -5 (first year is 4.5 hours and second year is 5) hours per week and should expect to spend an additional 4.5 hours per on homework and private study. Mock exams are held during the first year (in February/March), but do not count towards the final A Level. Exams for the whole A level are held in May or June of the second year.
Entry requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including grade 5/B in English Language. You should also be a strong, independent reader with an enquiring mind and a keen interest in exploring new ideas.
Where next?
Philosophy strengthens your ability to analyse, to reason more effectively and to make sound judgements – skills in demand by employers and universities, business and management, education, social policy…. You get the idea.
Work experience and employability
This course does not contain a work experience component but has other activities to help you develop employability skills. If you would like to undertake a work placement alongside your studies, our Employability Team can help.
What additional resources will I need?
You will be expected to supply your own stationery and you may want to purchase a textbook. You may also be asked to contribute to any courses and visits in which you take part.
Fees information
This course is free to students aged 16-18.
Students aged 19+ will usually be charged a tuition fee, unless they meet certain eligibility criteria for fee remission. For those paying, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available. For further advice on fees, waivers and loans, please contact the Fees Co-Ordinator at Queens Drive.
Contact
If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us by emailing enrolment@newcollege.ac.uk