Programs & Degrees
Orthodox Theological Formation for Clergy and Faithful Servants
Saint Mary Theological College offers ecclesiastical programs rooted in Holy Scripture, Sacred Tradition, the teachings of the Holy Fathers, and the liturgical life of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
Our programs are designed to form clergy, teachers, catechists, and faithful servants through disciplined study, prayer, worship, and pastoral training. All degrees are ecclesiastical in nature and intended for ministry and service within the Church.
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs provide foundational formation in Orthodox faith, worship, and spiritual life. They are ideal for lay servants, catechists, and faithful seeking structured theological education.
- Certificate in Orthodox Foundations – Introduction to Orthodox doctrine, Holy Scripture, worship, Church history, and spiritual discipline.
- Certificate in Orthodox Spiritual Life – Prayer, fasting, repentance, confession, and ascetical tradition.
Diploma Programs
Diploma programs provide deeper formation for parish service, teaching ministry, and preparation for further theological study.
- Diploma in Theology & Ministry – Preparation for parish assistance, catechesis, and ministry support roles.
- Diploma in Church Education – Training for Church teachers and educators.
Undergraduate Degrees
Undergraduate programs provide comprehensive theological education for faithful service and preparation for ordained ministry.
- Associate of Theology (A.Th.) – Foundational theological education in Scripture, doctrine, liturgy, and Church history.
- Bachelor of Theology (B.Th.) – Advanced study in theology, pastoral ministry, canon law, and Orthodox spirituality.
Graduate Degrees
Graduate programs are designed for clergy candidates, priests, and advanced students seeking professional pastoral and theological formation.
- Master of Divinity (M.Div.) – Professional degree for priestly formation, pastoral ministry, and sacramental service.
- Master of Theology (M.Th.) – Advanced theological study and specialization.
Doctoral Programs
Doctoral programs provide advanced scholarly and ecclesiastical formation for teaching, research, and leadership within the Church.
- Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)
- Ph.D. in Orthodox Studies
These programs are intended for advanced theological scholarship and service to the Church.
Our Formation Model
All programs integrate:
- Holy Scripture (Old & New Testaments)
- Patristic Theology
- Liturgical Studies
- Canon Law
- Church History
- Orthodox Spirituality
- Ethiopian Orthodox Heritage & Ge’ez Studies
Formation is spiritual, pastoral, and academic—shaping the whole person for service in the Church.
Online & Distance Learning
Saint Mary Theological College offers distance learning opportunities for students who cannot attend in person. Online instruction is conducted under the guidance of Orthodox instructors in fidelity to Church teaching.
Saint Mary Theological College & Ethio-American Cultural Institute is a religious educational institution operating under Texas Education Code §132.002(a)(2). All degrees are ecclesiastical in nature and intended for ministry and service within the Church.
