A Level Philosophy

A simple question: Is Philosophy at Runshaw worth studying? The answer is yes. Here's why. A Level Philosophy is a two year course which will give you the opportunity to explore a range of questions including whether our perception of the world is reliable and how we should make decisions about what is morally right and wrong. Many students who enjoy and successfully complete this subject typically progress onto a range of degree courses including: Philosophy and related degrees such as PPE.

  • Course Information
    • Course Code
      LAPHIL
    • Exam Board
      AQA
    • Attendance Pattern
      Daytime
    • Course Level
      Level 3
    • Study Mode
      Full Time
    • Course Location
      Langdale Road, Leyland
    • Age Group
      School Leavers (16-18)
    • Course Duration
      2 years
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  • Overview

    As a Philosophy student you will join a long and distinguished tradition of attempting to understand the world around us and our place within it. The word Philosophy is from the ancient Greek, meaning “the love of wisdom”. Philosophers attempt to gain ‘wisdom’ or ‘understanding’ by asking the most fundamental questions and attempting to answer them through the use of conceptual analysis, empirical evidence and rational argument.

    You will encounter some of the biggest questions humanity has ever asked, and be trained in techniques for discussing them intelligently in order to reach perceptive conclusions. In studying Philosophy, you will become a more disciplined and logical thinker, and will develop an ability to both deconstruct and construct concise logical arguments. Studying Philosophy is academically rigorous and challenging, but is also very rewarding.

    As 20th Century British philosopher Bertrand Russell put it, “Through the greatness of the universe which philosophy contemplates, the mind is also rendered great.” If you are not afraid of intellectually challenging ideas and new perspectives, then Philosophy could be the subject for you.

    It is possible to study Philosophy as a single subject at university, or study it in a wide range of combinations with other subjects such as Politics, Economics, Mathematics, Social Sciences and Natural Sciences. Philosophy will provide you with a range of skills that are valued by employers and you will find Philosophy graduates in a hugely varied range of jobs.

    What will I study? Such questions as:

    • is our perception of the world reliable?
    • does the existence of the universe require an explanation?
    • what is the mind, and can we explain consciousness?
    • how should we make decisions about what is morally right and wrong?

    Course Highlights:

    Enrichment opportunities

    X

  • Entry Requirements

    Our A Level programme requires a minimum of 5 GCSE subjects at Grade 5.

  • How will I be assessed?

    100% written examination.

  • Progression Pathway

    Philosophy enables one to be better equipped to study other subjects by enhancing evaluative and analytical skills, and by developing your capacity to go to the heart of any issue and bring the important questions into the light.

    It is possible to study Philosophy as a single subject at university, or study it in a wide range of combinations with other subjects such as Politics, Economics, Mathematics, Social Sciences and Natural Sciences. Philosophy will provide you with a range of skills that are valued by employers and you will find Philosophy graduates in a hugely varied range of jobs.

    Studying Philosophy is especially useful preparation for careers in education, law, journalism, politics, marketing, advertising, business and finance.

  • National Careers Service

    For guidance about what careers subjects can lead on to please follow this link to the National Careers Service.