Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

Our Religion, Philosophy and Ethics BA (Hons) course scored 92% for academic support in the National Student Survey 2025.

This course is as much about engaging with a rich diversity of religious traditions, philosophical ideas and ethical values as it is about examining the ways these big ideas shape and change the world.

You’ll study, critically and in depth, religious and non-religious movements, emergent spiritualities, philosophy from the Greeks to transhumanism, and ethical theories – not just as a way of understanding how they have influenced our past but their central role in our future.

Inside and outside the classroom, we’ll look at how these ideas, beliefs and practices inform and interact with cultural and political movements and contemporary issues of social justice, such as the environment, economic inequality, colonisation, racism, and sexism.

We also believe you must experience the subject outside of the classroom. You’ll have opportunities to take part in field trips – both local and national – as well as to work with local charities and communities who are committed to climate and social justice.

Our approach to the subject is through student-centred and research-led teaching. You’ll study in small seminar groups, led in person by our academic subject experts and a variety of guest speakers. We’ll engage with you directly through stimulating interactive sessions that include discussions, debates, and presentations, addressing fundamental problems and questions in the world today.

Your learning will also be enhanced by a range of field trips and placements which will enable you to develop key life skills, such as being able to creatively analyse complex problems and offer solutions with evidence and work confidently with others. These AI-proof abilities will be essential for your future career and will be greatly valued beyond university.

Assessment is based entirely on coursework and classwork with no examinations. You’ll benefit from being assessed in a variety of different ways, including portfolios and reflective writing, individual and group presentations.

The most recent Graduate Outcomes survey (2025) reported 100% of our 2022/23 graduates are in employment or further study.

Furthermore, the course is designed to build students confidence in several important areas including IT, AI and digital skills, presentation and communication skills but more importantly how to be independent thinkers.

You’ll be offered the opportunity to gain real-world experience through our Level 5 placements programme that works closely with local and national organisations who focus upon social and climate justice.

Our alumni continue to excel in postgraduate study, and many go onto make a real difference to the world through AI and digital industries, teaching, working in the charity and third sector as well as creative professions.