Course summary

Who am I? How should I live? Is there a God? Is religious belief credible in the 21st century and why is it still with us? In a world where meaning is often ‘hidden’ or involves a complicated analytical response, it’s essential that we spend the time trying to engage with who we are and what values we want to hold as individuals in today’s complex society. Through the lens of prominent thinkers such as Aristotle, Plato and Foucault, you’ll examine some of today’s most pertinent moral, religious, social and political questions. We’ll teach you how to interpret texts, analyse complex concepts and apply ideas and ethical values to daily life. You’ll search for what ‘truth’ and ‘meaning’ might mean by studying a range of ideas and positions. Central questions will include: what is the place of the self in the world?; what values should we hold in contemporary society regarding business, sport and surveillance?; and does belief in God shape the kind of values we hold? In fact, is it this belief in God that constitutes a religion? - if so, what actually constitutes a religion? You’ll develop key skills in problem-solving, analytical and creative thinking, and learning to engage with philosophical, ethical and religious questions. Putting skills and theory into practice, you’ll complete professional work placements and gain valuable experience in preparation for your future career. By combining the study of philosophy, ethics and religion, you’ll foster your own development as a thinker and have the opportunity to think critically and creatively, make new links and find new insights – skills which are vital in today’s job market and society. Professional work placements Students on the programme have undertaken placements in primary and secondary schools, charities such as CAFOD, MPs’ offices, legal firms, publishers, local government, and in university and prison chaplaincies. Graduate opportunities You’ll learn how to engage in deep dialogue, which will give you the ability to empathise with and respect the views of others. These skills are important for careers where communication, leadership, problem-solving and analytical thinking is important, such as management, law, social work, local government and education. You could also progress on to a career in teaching after further study.