Admissions
Saint Mary Theological College & Ethio-American Cultural Institute welcomes applicants who desire to grow in Orthodox faith, theological knowledge, and service to the Church. Admission is open to qualified candidates seeking spiritual formation, theological education, and preparation for ministry.
Who Should Apply
- Men preparing for ordained ministry
- Clergy seeking further theological formation
- Lay leaders and catechists serving the Church
- Teachers and church educators
- Faithful Orthodox Christians desiring deeper theological understanding
Admission Philosophy
Admission to Saint Mary Theological College is based not only on academic readiness, but also on spiritual maturity, moral character, and commitment to the life of the Church. Because theological education is inseparable from spiritual formation, applicants are evaluated holistically.
General Admission Requirements
- Completed application form
- Personal statement describing faith journey and vocational goals
- Recommendation letter from parish priest or spiritual father
- Proof of Orthodox Christian standing
- Academic transcripts (as applicable to program level)
- Interview with admissions committee (if required)
Program-Specific Requirements
- Certificate & Diploma: Open to faithful Orthodox Christians with parish involvement.
- Associate (A.Th.): High school diploma or equivalent.
- Bachelor (B.Th.): High school diploma or Associate degree.
- Master (M.Div. / M.Th.): Bachelor degree or equivalent theological preparation.
- Doctoral (Ph.D. / Th.D.): Master degree in theology or related field.
Clergy Formation & Ordination Track
Applicants seeking preparation for ordained ministry must have the blessing and recommendation of their parish priest and ecclesiastical authority. Admission does not guarantee ordination, which remains under the authority of the Church.
International & Diaspora Students
Saint Mary Theological College welcomes students from the diaspora and international communities. Programs may be offered in on-campus, hybrid, and distance-learning formats depending on availability.
Language of Instruction
Courses are offered primarily in English, with integration of Amharic and Ge’ez as appropriate. Students are encouraged to develop proficiency in Ge’ez for liturgical and theological studies.
Application Process
- Complete the online or printed application form
- Submit required documents and transcripts
- Provide recommendation letter(s)
- Participate in interview (if requested)
- Receive admission decision and enrollment instructions
Tuition & Scholarships
Tuition is intentionally kept minimal to support clergy formation, catechetical training, and access to Orthodox theological education. Additional financial assistance may be available based on need and ministry commitment.
Certificate Programs
Diploma & Associate
Bachelor of Theology
Graduate & Doctoral
Non-Discrimination Policy
Saint Mary Theological College admits students without regard to race, color, or national origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and programs, in accordance with its religious mission and legal standing.
Contact Admissions
For questions about admissions, application procedures, or program suitability, please contact the Admissions Office or visit the Contact page.
Begin Your Application
Prepare your documents, review admissions requirements, and proceed to the online application when you are ready.