Academic Ranks

Across the great academies of Tenebria—arcane, scholarly, and sometimes theological—a consistent hierarchy governs the ranks of learning and authority. While customs may vary by region, most institutions follow a three-tier leadership model, supported by structured faculty and student progression.

Institutional Leadership

• Chancellor: The political and administrative head of the academy. Oversees funding, royal charters, and external diplomacy. Common in crown- or guild-chartered institutions.
• Archmagister: The highest arcane authority. Determines magical doctrine, approves restricted research, and safeguards dangerous knowledge. Standard in magical universities.
• Rector: The scholarly and ethical leader. Oversees faculty conduct, curriculum design, and the moral instruction of students. Common in Church-aligned or philosophical academies.

Faculty Ranks

• Magister / Senior Lector: Veteran scholars and researchers. Teach advanced material, lead projects, and advise rising talent.
• Lector / Lecturer: Core teaching staff. Guide coursework, assess apprentices, and maintain the academic rhythm of the school.
• Adept / Scholar: Junior instructors or early-career researchers. Often assist higher faculty or manage introductory lessons.

Student Progression

• Initiate / Acolyte: Admitted student undergoing basic instruction. Handles tasks and studies under supervision.
• Candidate: A progressing student tied to a faculty sponsor or specific discipline.
• Fellow / Provost Scholar: A student granted limited authority to teach or research, usually at the brink of becoming faculty themselves.

Whether studying leylines, lost tongues, or the logic of Law itself, academies demand structure, as knowledge unbound has proven to be dangerous in Tenebria.