Cambridge International Level 3 Pre-U Certificate in Philosophy and Theology (Principal)
Qualification summary
Cambridge International Level 3 Pre-U syllabuses aim to encourage the development of skills that students require in their subsequent studies at university. This syllabus not only provides a solid grounding, at an appropriate level, in History but also nurtures the ability of students to undertake independent and self-directed learning and to think laterally, critically and creatively. This focus on independent thinking and study skills, combined with a strong subject base, means that this syllabus promotes the development of successful students – equipped to succeed once they are at university.
This syllabus has been developed in collaboration with schools and in consultation with universities and subject associations. All assessment takes place at the end of the two-year course, which promotes coherence in assessment and clarity in reporting achievement, and liberates learning by giving schools the chance to structure courses in ways most appropriate to their own students.
The Cambridge Pre-U Philosophy and Theology course aims to:
• Develop an understanding of the shared heritage of Philosophy and Theology.
• Allow candidates to gain a real insight into both subject areas, rather than simply the topics of ethics and philosophy of religion.
• Prepare candidates thoroughly for the study of either Philosophy or Theology in Higher Education; or any other subject which requires rigorous thinking and the analysis of complex ideas.
• Encourage the critical examination and evaluation of evidence and arguments, and develop the ability to construct, develop and maintain a clear and coherent argument.
• Encourage wide reading and introduce candidates to some of the key ideas and texts which have played a large role in shaping our intellectual heritage.
Qualification details
OG - Other General Qualification
Accreditation start date:
Operational start date in centres:
For information on the approval of qualifications for funding in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, see the links to DCSF, DIUS, DCELLS, DELNI and DENI below.
When undertaking a qualification that does not appear on the governments' lists as eligible for funding for specific age ranges, users must be aware of legal requirements. Not all qualifications are suitable for all age ranges.
For further information on 14-19 qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DCSF
Section 96 website.
For further information on 19+ qualifications offered in England, please refer to the DIUS
Section 97 website.
For further information on Wales, visit the
DCELLS website.
For further information on Northern Ireland, visit the
DELNI and
DENI websites.
Botswana - Canada - Finland - France - Greece - Guernsey - India - Scotland - Spain - Uganda - United States Minor Outlying Islands
This syllabus aims to encourage the development of generic skills of independent study and research, and to promote critical thinking and self-directed learning – all of which are intended to provide for successful progression to Higher Education and employment. In addition, the syllabus provides deep learning in terms of knowledge and understanding that will provide a sound basis for progression to higher study in cognate subjects.
No specific job occupation
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14 Preparation for Life and Work
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14.1
Foundations for Learning and Life
D1, D2, D3, M1, M2, M3, P1, P2, P3
The qualification is assessed using independent and holistic assessment.
The Cambridge International Pre-U Certificate in Philosophy and Theology is assessed through three compulsory papers. The assessments all take place at the end of the two-year course and a single grade is awarded.
Paper 1: Introduction to Philosophy and Theology
The first paper covers compulsory content, and is designed as an introduction to the key aspects of the course. Candidates answer questions on a range of themes, central to the study of both Philosophy and Theology. Questions will invite description and evaluation of particular arguments and approaches.
Paper 2: Topics and Key Texts in Philosophy and Theology 1
This paper focuses on four topics and the critical study of set texts for each of the topics listed in the syllabus. Some questions will invite the development of a sustained argument. Other questions will invite the candidate to show an understanding of the background and context of the text. Critical engagement with the text involves the ability to analyse and evaluate the arguments used, including the identification of assumptions and the valuation of evidence.
Candidates answer one text question and one essay question, chosen from one of the topics
Paper 3: Topics and Key Texts in Philosophy and Theology 2
This paper focuses on three topics and the critical study of set texts for each of the topics listed in the syllabus. Some questions will invite the development of a sustained argument. Others questions will invite the candidate to show an understanding of the background and context of the text, the arguments used and the issues raised. Critical engagement with the text involves the ability to analyse and evaluate the arguments used, including the identification of assumptions and the valuation of evidence.
Candidates answer one text question and one essay question, chosen from one of the topics.
The chosen texts are designed to:
• be accessible;
• be apposite to the syllabus content;
• have something of an academic reputation; they are texts candidates would be expected to be familiar with when completing undergraduate work in the respective subject area;
• introduce arguments which enable candidates to gain a deeper insight into a particular topic.
Further details can be found in the subject syllabus, available on www.cie.org.uk.
The Cambridge Pre-U Certificates can act as standalone qualifications but are also intended to form a part of the Cambridge International Level 3 Pre-U Diploma, along with Global Perspectives and Independent Research Report.
It is expected that this syllabus will require around 380 glh. This is a notional measure of the substance of the qualification. It includes an estimate of the time that might be allocated to direct teaching or instruction, together with other structured learning time such as directed assignments or supported individual study and practice. It excludes learner-initiated private study.