Course Overview
Explore life’s biggest questions and learn how to think clearly, critically, and creatively with our A level Philosophy course.
A level Philosophy is a stimulating subject that encourages deep thinking about truth, morality, existence, and the nature of knowledge.
Philosophy stands out at A level for its focus on questioning the world around us and developing rigorous reasoning skills. Students explore classic and contemporary ideas in ethics, epistemology, religion, and the mind, learning to evaluate arguments, uncover meaning, and think independently.
This A level Philosophy distance learning course not only strengthens critical thinking and logical analysis but also improves communication and essay-writing skills. With flexible online learning, A level Philosophy is ideal preparation for university or careers in law, education, journalism, public policy, or any field that values clear, reasoned thought.
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100% pass rate in 2026
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Interactive course
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Dedicated tutor support
Online A level Philosophy at a glance
Learn at your own pace
Approx. 250-300 hours* plus time for completing assignments
Earn up to 56 UCAS points
10 assignments – these do not contribute towards your final grade
Online learning with 1:1 tutor support
Exams (two):
- 50% of marks (3 hours)
- 50% of marks (3 hours)
There is no non-exam assessment (NEA) for this course
There are no academic requirements for this course.
Course materials are written in English so a good level of written English is required.
- Philosophy for AS and A level: Epistemology and Moral Philosophy,M Lacewing, Routledge, 2017
- Philosophy for A level: Metaphysics of God and Metaphysics of Mind, M Lacewing, Routledge, 2017
Internet access
Computer operating system and browser to support learn@nec.
There are no academic requirements for this course.
Course materials are written in English so a good level of written English is required.
Online learning with 1:1 tutor support
Earn up to 56 UCAS points
10 assignments – these do not contribute towards your final grade
Learn at your own pace
Approx. 250-300 hours* plus time for completing assignments
- Philosophy for AS and A level: Epistemology and Moral Philosophy,M Lacewing, Routledge, 2017
- Philosophy for A level: Metaphysics of God and Metaphysics of Mind, M Lacewing, Routledge, 2017
Internet access
Computer operating system and browser to support learn@nec.
Exams (two):
- 50% of marks (3 hours)
- 50% of marks (3 hours)
There is no non-exam assessment (NEA) for this course
Learn at your own pace
Approx. 250-300 hours* plus time for completing assignments
Earn up to 56 UCAS points
10 assignments – these do not contribute towards your final grade
Online learning with 1:1 tutor support
Exams (two):
- 50% of marks (3 hours)
- 50% of marks (3 hours)
There is no non-exam assessment (NEA) for this course
There are no academic requirements for this course.
Course materials are written in English so a good level of written English is required.
- Philosophy for AS and A level: Epistemology and Moral Philosophy,M Lacewing, Routledge, 2017
- Philosophy for A level: Metaphysics of God and Metaphysics of Mind, M Lacewing, Routledge, 2017
Internet access
Computer operating system and browser to support learn@nec.
Why study online A level Philosophy
Future opportunities
- Studying a philosophy course at university.
- A wide range of rewarding career paths in fields such as politics, law, the civil service, journalism, chaplaincy, medicine, education and psychotherapy.
Sample course content
A level Philosophy taster
Want to know more? Our online A level Philosophy course opens up a world of new opportunities.
This free PDF taster provides an example of a topic from the course.
Download your free taster today, have a look around and contact us if you have any questions about the A level Philosophy course.
Once you have submitted your details the link to download your course taster will appear here.
Your common questions and concerns answered about Philosophy A level
Frequently asked questions
Yes, learners can fully study A Level Philosophy online through the learn@nec digital platform, which provides 24/7 access to all course materials. Designed for independent learners of all ages, the course combines flexible self-study with structured support from qualified teacher tutors.
There are no formal entry requirements to enrol, making the course accessible to adult retakers, career-changers, and home-educated students alike. However, because assessment relies entirely on precise essay writing and evaluating complex arguments, a solid foundation in written English (equivalent to GCSE level) is recommended.
A Level Philosophy is intellectually rigorous because it tests your ability to construct precise logical arguments rather than simply memorise facts. Learners must master abstract topics such as Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind, using exact technical terminology. You will complete practice assignments marked by a dedicated tutor to ensure you master exam techniques.
You will need regular internet access to use learn@nec alongside the core course textbooks by Michael Lacewing and the online AQA anthology. No specialist equipment is required, though practicing handwritten essay responses is strongly encouraged to prepare for final written exams.
Assessment consists entirely of two 3-hour written exam papers covering Epistemology, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics of God, and Metaphysics of Mind.
NEC guarantees exam entry options for its learners through a nationwide network of UK partnership exam centres.
A Level Philosophy earns up to 56 UCAS points and builds high-level critical thinking, analysis, and reasoning skills that are valued by top universities. These analytical abilities provide an excellent foundation for future careers in law, civil service, journalism, management consultancy, publishing, and education
With you every step of the way
Enjoy 1-2-1 support from your A level Philosophy course tutor
You’ll have access to 1:1 support from your tutor. All NEC tutors are subject experts, with experience in supporting online learners.
MORE ABOUT OUR TUTORS“Learning should be a rewarding experience for its own sake. I love ideas and think that the most valuable thing about education is the joy of gaining knowledge. The most rewarding thing about tutoring and teaching is helping students to find their own reward in learning. I have been teaching for 18 years. I am a head of faculty, an A level examiner and write NEC course materials for A level Philosophy and A level Religious Studies. I am never happier than when I am in a classroom or working 1:1 with learners of all ages.”
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Multibuy A levels
Purchasing more than one A level? Use voucher code ALMB10 to receive 10% off at checkout.
Affordable study
Flexible payments and financial help
- As an education charity dedicated to helping independent learners achieve life-changing qualifications we want to keep fees affordable. All of our course fees are clear and transparent to help you plan for any additional costs.
- NEC’s fees for A levels offer some of the best value on the market, with multi-buy options, special offers, personal discounts, and affordable finance options.
- Used responsibly, finance is a great way to spread the cost of your course. We’ve teamed up with Omni, one of the UK’s leading finance specialists.
- Depending on your own circumstances, there are a number of possibilities for getting help to fund your course.
Visit our Fee information page or
Monthly instalments
Study now, pay your way
It’s your choice: you can pay in full at the point of enrolment, or you can spread the cost over monthly instalments with our finance offer. We offer a choice of six or 12 month repayment plans, with 0% APR as standard.
To pay in instalments you will need to enrol by telephone.
The National Extension College (NEC) work with finance company OMNI. For more information on our relationship with OMNI and repayment plans see our Fee Information page.
| Course fee | £730 |
| Deposit | £73 |
| Amount of credit | £657 |
| Monthly payment | £54.75 |
| Duration | 12 months |
| Total repayment | £730 |
| Cost of credit | £0.00 |
| Rate of interest | 0% APR representative |
Help when you need it
Additional support for under 18s
We understand younger students often need an extra helping hand with their studies. NEC’s unique Progress Tracker makes it easy for parents and guardians to follow their child’s progress, access assignment grades and view tutor feedback to ensure effective learning.
Need help choosing?
Talk to one of our course advisors
Still unsure whether online distance learning is right for you?
Our friendly Course Advice Team are here to help answer your questions and take you through your options.
- Book a call and someone will get back to you at a convenient time.
- Or contact us today by phone or email.
We’re waiting to help you get ahead and achieve your goals, your way.
