Religious Studies

Exam Board - CCEA

Click HERE to view the subject specification

Aims of Religious Studies

GCSE Religious Studies aims to provide opportunities for pupils to:

  1. be inspired, moved and changed by following a broad, satisfying and worthwhile course of study that will challenge and equip them to lead constructive lives in the modern world;

  1. develop their interest in and enthusiasm for the study of religion, and relate it to the wider world;

  1. adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion;

  2. reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in light of their learning;

  1. explore religions and beliefs, giving them opportunities to reflect on fundamental questions related to belief, engage with them intellectually and respond personally; enhance their spiritual and moral development and contribute to their health and wellbeing and

  1. enhance their personal, social and cultural development, along with their understanding of different cultures locally, nationally and in the wider world, so they may contribute to social and community cohesion.

What will I learn?

GCSE pupils study the following two units:

  1. An Introduction to Christian Ethics

  2. An Introduction to Philosophy of Religion

How will I be assessed?

There is no Controlled Assessment component in GCSE Religious Studies. Pupils will complete 2 examination papers, one on each unit they have studied. Each examination lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.

Skills developed in Religious Studies

Here are some examples of the transferable skills developed as a result of studying Religious Studies. They are not limited to pupils’ academic study and can be applied to other contexts. Employers' job vacancy details often refer to them when they advertise the positions available. They can also be used on the skills sections of pupils’ CV to demonstrate the broad range of qualities they have to offer:

  • Clear & Logical thinking

  • Critical evaluation

  • Literacy & Expression

  • Negotiating

  • Organising

  • Planning

  • Problem solving

  • Research

  • Working to deadlines

Careers and Religious Studies

Here are the occupational groups in which Religious Studies graduates first gain employment:

  • Professional Occupations

  • Associate Professional & Technical Occupations (including social welfare)

  • Administration

  • Sales & Customer Service

  • Personal Services

  • Management and Senior Officials

  • Retail

  • Health & Social Work

  • Business & Research

  • Public Administration

  • Finance

  • Education

  • Other Community & Social

Here are some examples of jobs where a Religious Studies degree may be useful:

  • Administrator

  • Advice Worker

  • Counsellor

  • Housing Adviser

  • Journalist

  • Librarian

  • Minister of Religion

  • Social Worker

  • Teacher

  • Youth & Community Worker