St. Mary's

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Philosophy, Ethics & Theology

  • A Level
  • Head of Department: Mr. Allan

Is this course for me?

No prior knowledge is required. Students develop critical and evaluative skills essential both for University and the workplace. A-level PET helps students develop their interest in, and enthusiasm for, a rigorous study of Religious and Philosophical ideas and their relation to the wider world. The course offers plenty of opportunity for reflection and growth, allowing students the freedom to develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their learning. If you are someone who wants the chance to examine the fundamental life questions that have exercised human beings over centuries, and to develop your own approach to these questions, then PET A Level is for you! Skills developed by the course include the analysis of texts and complex issues, reasoned decision-making and problem-solving, analytical rigour and the ability to criticise and reason logically, sensitivity to cultural and religious diversity and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.

Areas of Study

100% examination All examinations will be taken at the end of the two year course. AS can be completed as a standalone qualification. The PET course is divided into the three separate but compatible disciplines of Philosophy, Ethics and Theology. Within Philosophy, key content includes: Philosophies of Plato and Aristotle on Soul, Body and Mind; Arguments about the existence or non-existence of God; the nature of religious experience and the problem of evil.

Within Ethics, key content includes: Ethical theories including Aquinas’ Natural Law and Fletcher’s Situation Ethics; Applying ethical theory to issues such as euthanasia, business, and sexual matters. Within Theology, key content includes: Augustine’s teaching on human nature, death and the afterlife; the origins and development of Christianity; moral principles and justice issues within Christianity; attitudes to other religions and attitudes to gender.

Future Opportunities

The skills developed through PET are particularly suited to further study in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Ethics, Politics, Law, Sociology, the Social Sciences, Journalism, Politics and English.The skills developed through PET are particularly suited to further study in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Ethics, Politics, Law, Sociology, the Social Sciences, Journalism, Politics and English.The course provides a strong foundation for careers in (among others): national and local government, finance, law, schools, colleges and universities (for teaching and research positions), charities, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations, social services.
Click here to view the OCR Specification
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