Picking the right A Level combinations can boost your confidence and open doors at university. Religious Studies (AQA) is an essay-based subject that pairs brilliantly with humanities and social sciences—choose based on where you want to go next.

Best subjects to combine with A Level RS

• English Literature / Language — strengthens analysis, critical reading and extended writing.
• History — evidence handling, source evaluation and structured argument.
• Philosophy — logical reasoning and argument mapping (great for PPE/Philosophy).
• Politics — ethics in public life, rights, pluralism and policy (good for IR/social policy).
• Sociology — belief in society, culture and identity (ideal for social sciences).
• Law — argumentation, precedent and ethics (popular for aspiring solicitors/barristers).
• Business or Economics — corporate governance, ethics and decision-making.
• Modern Foreign Language — useful for diplomacy, global studies and comparative religion.
• Mathematics — helpful for PPE or economics-heavy routes that require quantitative skills.
• Biology (or another science) — optional but useful for bioethics/medical humanities interests.

Smart combinations by future pathway

• Theology / Religious Studies: RS + Philosophy + English/History.
• Law: RS + English/History + Politics (or Philosophy).
• PPE / Philosophy / Politics: RS + Philosophy + Politics; add Maths where required.
• International Relations / Diplomacy: RS + Politics + Modern Foreign Language (or History).
• Sociology / Social Policy / Anthropology: RS + Sociology + Politics/History.
• Journalism / Media: RS + English + Politics/History.
• Education / Teaching: RS + English + a facilitating subject (e.g., History/Science).
• Bioethics / Medical Humanities: RS + Philosophy + Biology (or another science).

University notes (quick guide)

• We teach the AQA course. Check the official spec to see topic and assessment layout.
• Always verify prerequisites on university pages/UCAS—some PPE/Economics routes require Maths.
• Strong grades in any rigorous essay subjects are valued; choose the mix you’ll excel in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which subjects pair best with A Level RS?

English, History, Philosophy, Politics and Sociology are the most common pairings. Add Maths for PPE/economics-focused routes or a language for IR/diplomacy.

What’s the best combo for Law?

RS + English/History + Politics (or Philosophy). Prioritise strong essay technique and super-curriculars (mooting, debating, court visits).

Do I need Philosophy with RS?

No, but it’s an excellent match—especially for PPE/Philosophy pathways. Universities mostly care about grades and rigour.

Is Maths important with RS?

Only for specific routes (e.g., PPE/Economics). For humanities, a third essay subject is usually fine.

Are sciences useful alongside RS?

Optional, but helpful for bioethics/medical humanities. RS + Philosophy + Biology works well if that’s your interest.