Associate in Theology (A.Th.)

College Programs

Associate in Theology (A.Th.)

A foundational degree program providing systematic Orthodox theological education in Scripture, doctrine, worship, Church history, and spiritual formation.

Program Overview

The Associate in Theology is a two-year degree designed to establish students in Orthodox doctrine and Church life. It is ideal for lay leaders, teachers, and ministry workers who desire a deeper and more systematic education.

Total Credits
60 credits
Length
4 semesters (2 years)
Format
In-person / hybrid
Best For
Lay leaders & ministry workers
Purpose:
To provide a strong Orthodox theological foundation and prepare students for faithful service, teaching, and continued study toward the B.Th. degree.

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge of Orthodox doctrine, sacraments, and Church tradition.
  • Understand the structure and content of the Old and New Testaments.
  • Explain Orthodox worship, liturgy, and spiritual discipline.
  • Describe key periods of Church history, including Ethiopian Orthodox history.
  • Serve responsibly in parish education and ministry support roles.

Who This Program Is For

For students who have completed Certificate/Diploma (or equivalent) and want deeper systematic study.

Next Step
Students may continue into the Bachelor in Theology (B.Th.) program.

Curriculum Outline (60 Credits)

A semester-by-semester outline (15 credits per semester). Course names can be aligned exactly with your official catalog.

Semester 1 (15 credits)
  • TH 210 — Orthodox Doctrine I (3)
  • BI 210 — Old Testament I (3)
  • BI 211 — New Testament I (3)
  • LI 210 — Orthodox Worship & Liturgy I (3)
  • SF 210 — Spiritual Formation I (3)
Semester 2 (15 credits)
  • TH 220 — Orthodox Doctrine II (3)
  • BI 220 — Old Testament II (3)
  • BI 221 — New Testament II (3)
  • CH 210 — Church History I (3)
  • SF 220 — Spiritual Formation II (3)
Semester 3 (15 credits)
  • TH 230 — Christology & Salvation (3)
  • PA 230 — Pastoral Ministry I (3)
  • CH 220 — Church History II (3)
  • LI 220 — Liturgical Studies II (3)
  • ED 230 — Teaching in the Church (3)
Semester 4 (15 credits)
  • TH 240 — Holy Trinity & Sacraments (3)
  • PA 240 — Pastoral Ministry II (3)
  • CL 240 — Canon Law & Church Order (3)
  • ET 240 — Ethics & Christian Life (3)
  • RS 240 — Research & Writing (3)
Assessment:
Participation • Reading • Quizzes/Exams • Short papers • Teaching practicum (as assigned)

Admission Requirements

  • Completion of Certificate/Diploma or equivalent background
  • Completed application form
  • Statement of purpose
  • Parish priest recommendation (recommended)
Placement
Applicants may be placed into appropriate courses based on prior learning and ministry experience.

Degree Awarded

Graduates receive the Associate in Theology (A.Th.).

Religious Degree Statement
This is a religious degree intended for ministry, theology, and ecclesiastical study.

Apply to the A.Th. Program

Build strong Orthodox foundations and prepare for teaching, ministry service, and continued theological study.

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