Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

Why Religion, Philosophy and Ethics?
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 in which they shape and change the world we live in today.
You’ll study, critically and in depth, the world religions, 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. You’ll be encouraged to look at how these ideas, beliefs and practices inform and interact with aspects of contemporary social justice, the environment, politics, race and gender.
We also believe you have to experience the subject outside of the classroom. You’ll also have opportunity to take part in field trips – both national and international – as well work with local charities and communities who are committed to social justice.

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

100% of students on this course who graduated in 2021/22 are now in graduate-level jobs or further study, according to the Graduate Outcomes survey 2024.

Our philosophy courses are ranked 2nd in the UK for student satisfaction by the Complete University Guide 2026

Why University of Gloucestershire?
University of Gloucestershire (UoG) is a vibrant, close-knit and diverse community where small class sizes and dedicated personal tutors ensure students receive guidance and support from day one. UoG has been offering a wide range of degrees, courses and apprenticeships at undergraduate and postgraduate levels since 1847. Alongside our strong support system, guest speakers, networking events and influential partnerships will help you prepare for life after graduation, whether that be in a successful career in your field or onto further study.

Our promises to you

1. UoG Career Promise – if you're not in a job 6 months after graduating, we’ll guarantee you 6 months of free support post-graduation should you need it, followed by the offer of a paid internship and lifetime career coaching (eligibility conditions apply).
2. UoG Accommodation Promise – we guarantee all first-year students’ accommodation on, or near, the campus you’re studying at.
3. UoG Connections Promise – offering thousands of placements, internships, clubs and societies to help students find their community and build valuable experience and career connections.

After the course
Your story doesn’t end with us at graduation. We support our graduates to balance purpose with ambition, and 95% of University of Gloucestershire graduates are in work or further study within six months of completing their course*.
*Graduate Outcomes Survey published 2024 and based on 2021/22 leavers.

Student life
Home to 11,300 students and 900 staff across four campuses, University of Gloucestershire offers dynamic learning environments on the edge of the Cotswolds, the UK’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With over 45 festivals each year, global business placements nearby and more than 500 bars, clubs and pubs, Cheltenham is known as the ‘Festival Town’, while Gloucester blends rich history with a modern city feel, from its iconic cathedral to its famous docks.

Visit us
Come and explore our campuses, facilities, teaching areas and accommodation. You’ll get the chance to attend course talks and meet our lecturers, current students and support staff and answer all of your questions. Book to come to an open day at glos.ac.uk/BookAnOpenDay.

To find out more information about this course visit glos.ac.uk/OurCourses, email us on enquiries@glos.ac.uk or call 03330 14 14 14.

Lectures and seminars exist alongside more innovative teaching methods. We make full use of video podcasts, e-texts, Skype Q&As with external experts, and students are actively involved with these resources. We have a strong commitment to tutorials, and work with our students, one-to-one and in small groups, to help them produce the best work and ideas that they are capable of. The course encourages an open forum with small group discussions to exchange ideas. Tutors talk you through classical philosophical and religious texts. You'll also learn through seminars, field trips and online resources such as podcasts and videos.