The New Degrees at Cambridge

Abstract

A FEW years ago it pleased the dominant body in the University of Cambridge to institute a Doctorate of Science and of Letters. Candidates for these new degrees were required to be of a certain academical standing, and to submit the proofs of their qualifications to the respective Special Boards of Studies, who, after certain formalities, were empowered to forward their claims to the General Board of Studies for approval. By many well-meaning persons this step was thought to be a great encouragement to both letters and science. It was at the same time understood that the qualification for the Doctorate in Science was to be rather less than was required for admission to the Royal Society—a standard which all will admit is not too high. Whether any similar understanding was agreed upon as regards the Doctorate in Literature is uncertain. At first there was no particular desire shown among the best men of science and literature to aspire to the new distinction, and it is rumoured that a considerable amount of persuasion and friendly pressure had to be used to induce such men to submit to the infliction. But in time a few leading lights underwent the ordeal and were duly invested. The way being cleared, a good many others have followed, and as the Boards have not been too severe in judging the claims of candidates, the outbreak of “scarletina” has become rather general. However, no particular harm has ensued, and the coffers of the University have reaped the benefit—for the fee is not small.