Students can either choose to study Religious Studies or Philosophy at A level and different schools and colleges may only offer one or the other.
Philosophy teaches you how to think for yourself and how to analyse and communicate ideas clearly and logically.
In Religious Studies students develop their understanding and appreciation of religious beliefs and teachings, as well as the disciplines of ethics and the philosophy of religion. An A Level in Religious Studies provides a coherent and thought-provoking programme of study. Students develop their understanding and appreciation of religious beliefs and teachings, as well as the disciplines of ethics and the philosophy of religion.
Within Philosophy you might be taught include epistemology (theory of knowledge), philosophy of religion, ethics and philosophy of the mind.
The skills learned as part of studying philosophy & religious studies can be useful in many different jobs that require logical thought or communication of ideas and many people who study philosophy / RS go on to work in careers in law, education, politics or business.
Students who study Philosophy or Religious Studies often combine this subject with history, English, psychology or sociology.
Selection of jobs using the subject Philosophy & Ethics
- Aid worker
- Barrister
- Civil Service administrative officer
- Civil Service executive officer
- Editorial assistant
- Further education lecturer
- Higher education lecturer
- Human resources officer
- Legal executive
- Local government officer
- Marketing executive
- Paralegal
- Primary school teacher
- Psychotherapist
- Public relations officer
- Recruitment consultant
- Religious leader
- Secondary school teacher
- Solicitor
Do a free, short, online course to find out more about philosophy (looks great on your CV too!)

- Philosophy of technology and design: shaping the relations between humans and technologies
- Teaching for change: An African philosophical approach
- Matter and mind: A philosophical understanding
Or view other free online courses in philosophy
Examples of apprenticeships that relate to philosophy and ethics:
- Teacher - Level:6 (equivalent to bachelor's degree). Typical length:12 months
- Learning and Skills Teacher - Level:5 (equivalent to foundation degree). Typical length:24 months
- Junior Journalist - Level:3 (equivalent to A levels grades A to E). Typical length: 18 months
Click to find apprenticeship vacancies available now related to philosophy and ethics
Examples of degree courses that relate to philosophy and ethics:
To see other degree courses related to philosophy and ethics
BBC Bitesize Career Videos
You can watch a great series of videos on where your favourite subject can take you at BBC Bitesize website.