The Church of England could seek degree-awarding powers of its own as part of the Government drive to bring new providers into higher education, according to a report.
A study for the General Synod, said the move would ‘not be a simple task’ but could save money and give the Church more control amid rapid changes.
The proposal was made in a report by the Bishop of Sheffield, the Rt Rev Steven Croft on changes to higher education funding and the future of clergy training.
The Rt Rev. Alan Smith, Bishop of St Albans, told the General Synod that up to 20 per cent of clergy would be retiring in some dioceses over the next six years.
He suggested the Church of England could introduce a scheme similar to some parts of the military where young people have university fees paid in return for a number of years of service.