AS/A2 General Studies

General Studies

Why do General Studies?

All students will sit AS/A2 General Studies in their second year of their AS/A2 course. Your Personal Progress Tutors will teach the course. General Studies will provide you with a broad educational experience: it allows you to explore issues beyond the confines of your core subjects, encouraging you to make links between different areas. It provides you with an AS / A2 qualification without the same pressure of revision that exists in specialist subjects. General Studies will involve you in lively debates and discussions about topical issues from global warming to euthanasia to animal rights. General Studies will develop your interpretive, analytical and discursive skills as well as broaden your mind and will give you an extra A-Level grade and UCAS points.

What will I study?

There are three broad areas: Culture, Science and Society. These are integrated into two units at AS with overlapping themes:
For the AS part of the course, you will explore things such as the role of scientists in attempting to provide solutions to human problems, such as climate change and disease, and examine the interrelationship between science, politics and belief systems in the development of a humane society. You will also discuss the role of individuals and discuss what influences behaviour and where values and opinions come from. You will look at issues as diverse as social and genetic factors, the role of the media, the arts and electoral systems.
For the A2 part of the course, you will consider change and progress in art, science and technology and explore beliefs, values and responsibilities and, in particular, the ways in which moral decisions are made.

General Studies

The extra stuff at RSFC

You will benefit from expert teaching and a range of conferences, workshops and guest speakers. In addition, you will be provided with the highest quality teaching materials, resources and facilities to help you succeed on this course.

What can I do with General Studies after college?

General Studies will give you an extra A-Level and UCAS points to help support your university applications and help you obtain a place on your chosen degree course.

What do I need to do General Studies?

All second year A2 students will take General Studies as part of their programme, so the normal entry criteria for AS/A2 courses must be met.