Religion, Philosophy & Ethics - BA (Hons)

Dive into the profound world of religion, philosophy, and ethics with our engaging programme. Philosophy and religion are fundamental to shaping our ethics. And by shaping us as individuals, they shape society as a whole. Ethical thinking is unavoidable, difficult and demanding. The world's philosophical and religious traditions can help us cope with these demands. This course encourages you to think deeply about the foundations of our beliefs and ethics. You’ll explore how religious thought and philosophy address these fundamental questions. You’ll develop the skills and confidence to argue your views, and gain professional experience with opportunities for bespoke internships, work placements and volunteering schemes. This interdisciplinary programme offers a diverse learning experience, covering ancient and modern traditions from around the world. Core modules build a strong foundation in religious and philosophical studies, including Christianity, Islam, and moral philosophy. You’ll also explore Judaism, Buddhism, Asian, and Africana philosophies and religions. Our modules are designed to inspire expansive and creative thinking about humanity’s deepest questions. You’ll be encouraged to [ask the big questions](https:www.nottingham.ac.ukstudywithusugstudyarticlesexplore-more-articlesartThe-big-questions-philosophy-theology-religion.html "Overview of what you'll study") and explore the many ways in thinking about what it is to be human. You’ll develop valuable skills in research, logic, and argumentation, encountering both historical and contemporary thinkers. The course covers a global spectrum of debates and worldviews, embracing both religious and nonreligious perspectives. Our [interfaith chaplaincy](https:www.nottingham.ac.ukchaplaincyindex.aspx "Chaplaincy homepage") also supports you to explore your faith and others’ faith in a supportive setting on campus. ### Explore more [I know what I want to do for a career](https:www.nottingham.ac.ukstudywithusugstudyarticlesexplore-more-articlesarti-know-what-i-want-to-do-for-a-career.html "Support to get started") [I am unsure what career I’d like](https:www.nottingham.ac.ukstudywithusugstudyarticlesexplore-more-articlesarti-m-unsure-what-career-i-d-like---.html "Careers advice to get you started") [Thinking of teaching – progress to a PGCE from this course](https:www.nottingham.ac.ukstudywithusugstudyarticlesexplore-more-articlescentralthinking-of-teaching-.html "Careers advice for potential teachers") ### Your department Find out more about what it’s like to study in the [Department of Philosophy](https:www.nottingham.ac.ukhumanitiesdepartmentsphilosophy), with theology and religion. ### Course highlights Beginners welcome - you do not need any prior experience of theology, religion or philosophy to study this course. Diverse module choice across two subjects allows you to combine old and new and follow themes through both subjects. Enjoy a global curriculum, with particular strengths across Christian, Muslim, Buddhist and atheist thinking, and Western, Chinese, Indian and Africana philosophies. We’re ranked top 20 in the UK for philosophy and top 10 for theology and religious studies (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 and Complete University Guide 2026). The average starting salary for philosophy and theology and religious studies undergraduates within 15 months of graduation was £28,500 (HESA Graduate Outcomes 202223).