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

Our programs are designed for:

  • 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

Each program has specific academic prerequisites:

  • Certificate & Diploma Programs: Open to faithful Orthodox Christians with basic literacy and parish involvement.
  • Associate Degree (A.Th.): High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Bachelor Degree (B.Th.): High school diploma or Associate degree.
  • Master Degrees (M.Th. / M.Div.): Bachelor degree or equivalent theological preparation.
  • Doctoral Program (Ph.D.): Master degree in theology or related field, with strong academic and ecclesiastical recommendation.

Clergy Formation & Ordination Track

Applicants seeking preparation for ordained ministry must have the blessing and recommendation of their parish priest and ecclesiastical authority. Admission into clergy formation programs 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 to the program and subject matter. Students are encouraged to develop proficiency in Ge’ez for liturgical and theological studies.

Application Process

  1. Complete the online or printed application form
  2. Submit required documents and transcripts
  3. Provide recommendation letter(s)
  4. Participate in interview (if requested)
  5. Receive admission decision and enrollment instructions

Tuition & Financial Support

Tuition and fees are set in accordance with the mission of the Church and the needs of the institution. Limited financial assistance or scholarships may be available based on need and ministry commitment.

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 for more information.

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