Lambeth Diploma in Theology

Papers relating to the Diploma's organising committees, students and examinations.

The Archbishop's Examination in Theology (Lambeth Diploma) was founded in 1905 to provide a means of scholarly theological study, originally for women, providing them with qualifications which enabled them to teach religious education. It was opened to men in 1944. The Lambeth Diploma of Student in Theology (S Th) could be taken by thesis, for candidates with suitable theological qualifications, or by examination. See Marjorie Thresher, 'A venture of faith: history of the Lambeth diploma, 1905-1984' (S. Th. Association, [1989]) [Lambeth Palace Library H5041.T4V3]; plus unabridged draft of this at the same classmark.

See also Agatha Norman, 'The history of the Archbishop's Commission to Teach Theology: and of the Lambeth Diploma in Theology' (Shears, [195-?]) [Lambeth Palace Library H5133 1134.11; Record Centre Main Collection CERC PB 173).

The Lambeth MA was inaugurated by Dr Runcie in 1990 in order to provide an opportunity for theological study at a more advanced level.

See article by Geoffrey Rowell on the development and purpose of the Lambeth Diploma in the 'Church Times', 15 June 1990, page 10.

Until 2007 the Archbishop's Examination in Theology (AET) comprised the Diploma of Student in Theology (the Lambeth Diploma) and the Degree of Master of Arts by Thesis (the Lambeth MA). In 2007 the Archbishop's Examination in Theology moved in a new direction. Its Council introduced an MPhil research degree, with the opportunity to extend to a PhD, while the Lambeth MA was phased out. In 2009 it was decided to phase out the Lambeth Diploma in order to focus resources in the research degree programme.

The scheme was subsequently re-branded as Lambeth Research Degrees in Theology. For current information see: http://aet-lambeth.org

There was an associated Lambeth Diploma Association for the alumni, which was wound up in 2016.

Open

Given to the Library by Mrs Marjorie Thresher in 1989 and 1993.

Lambeth Palace Library:

Archbishops' Papers.

Printed books collection.

Theses resulting from the modern Lambeth diploma were deposited at Pusey House, Oxford, but later transferred to Lambeth Palace Library. From 2007 they were received by Lambeth Palace Library.

For Lambeth degrees (rather than diplomas) see the Faculty Office records and information online: http://www.lambethpalacelibrary.org/content/churchadministration

There are also records relating to the Vacation Term for Biblical/Theological Study (ref: VT).