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The Archbishop's Examination in Theology
Until 2007 the Archbishop's Examination in Theology comprised the Diploma of Student in Theology (the Lambeth Diploma) and the Degree of Master of Arts by Thesis (the Lambeth MA).
The Lambeth Diploma was instituted in 1905 by Archbishop Randall Davidson. It provided an opportunity for women to study theology, principally so that they could teach religious education in schools and churches. In later decades it was open to both men and women and the means of study was either by examination or thesis.
The Lambeth MA was inaugurated by Dr Runcie in 1990 in order to provide an opportunity for theological study at a more advanced level. The Department for Education and Skills viewed the Lambeth MA in the same light as a Lambeth Degrees MA, in that it was examined to the level of an Oxbridge Masters degree and the Archbishop dispensed the students from residence - once again it was a 'degree of the realm'.
In 2007 the Archbishop's Examination in Theology moved in a new direction. The Council introduced an MPhil research degree, with the opportunity to extend to a PhD, while the Lambeth MA was phased out as students completed the course. Similarly the Lambeth Diploma is no longer offered by examination and the thesis option is currently being reviewed. During the period of the review no new students are being accepted.
The reasoning behind the introduction of the MPhil/PhD courses was to meet the unparalleled challenges and opportunities faced by the Church through offering opportunities for thorough, critical and detailed research, and analysis and interpretation. These research courses are offered at a level that meets QAA requirements but at a reasonable cost and with 'user-friendly' access. However although tutors will be fully qualified, students will receive a more limited service than they would from the Open University or similar courses. As many of our students are engaged in full time employment as well as having family commitments we want to utilise the concept of 'work-based learning'.
For further information about the MPhil/PhD research degrees please write or email:
The Administrative Officer
Archbishop's Examination in Theology
Lambeth Palace
London SE1 7JU