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Philosophy

ApplySubject Leaflet

Philosophy comes from the Greek words meaning 'love of wisdom'. It will involve you in thinking about thinking and learning to question basic beliefs, assumptions and ideas whilst searching for truth. Philosophy teaches you to think in a clear, logical and creative way that will help you in other subject areas and in most areas of life where critical and inventive thinking is valued. Students who study Philosophy find it challenging and exciting and many say that it changes their outlook in ways that they find useful and rewarding. Enlightenment is not guaranteed, but studying Philosophy should make you and your life more interesting!

Year 1

  • Epistemology
  • Ethics

Year 2

  • Metaphysics of God
  • Metaphysics of Mind

One of my favourites subjects was Philosophy because it encourages independent and critical thought, where you are expected to carefully analyse problems and come to your own conclusion. I am now studying Philosophy at the University of Cambridge.

Lillian Laffan, ex Varndean School

Course Essentials

Courses Available
A Level
Entry Requirements
How The Course is Assessed
100% exam
Career Pathways
Philosophy is an excellent grounding for a diverse range of degrees. It has links with all subjects, but rather than equipping you for a specific career, gives you highly valuable thinking skills that can be used in a variety of different situations and occupations.
Transferable Skills
The ability to ask penetrating questions, to analyse and evaluate the arguments of others and to present arguments clearly and logically.
Other Information
Philosophy combines well with all other subjects due to its emphasis on reasoning. In particular, the A Level combines well with Psychology, Sociology, Law, Politics and Classical Civilisation, Arts and Science.
Enquiries To
Fleur Hemmings: fms@varndean.ac.uk