Master of Theology Online Degree (ThM Online)

Program Design

The ThM program is an advanced course of study which builds on the first graduate-level theological degree, normally the MDiv or the MTS. The program provides a more scholarly concentration in a particular area of theology in the context of an Orthodox community. It is intended for candidates who may later pursue studies at the doctoral level, desire to teach formally, desire scholarly enhancement of their priestly or ministerial practice, or are interested in personal theological and spiritual enrichment. 

The online ThM is a 24 credit-hour advanced master’s degree program (additional to a first graduate-level theological degree) designed to be completed full-time in one year or part-time in two years. The four primary areas of study in the ThM program include Biblical (Old and New Testament); Historical (Church History and Patristics); Systematic (Dogmatics and Ethics); and Practical (Liturgics, Canon Law, and Pastoral Theology). Students complete 18 credits of coursework and two required thesis courses (6 credits). 

Program Learning Outcomes

The ThM program learning outcomes reflect an emphasis on advanced knowledge and skills consistent with a second graduate degree. 

1. Knowledge/Critical Thought: Demonstrate deepened knowledge and competence, beyond the Master of Divinity or Master of Theological Studies, in the areas of theology
2. Research Skills: Demonstrate capacity to conduct original research on a chosen topic of interest with appropriate resources
3. Written Communication: Demonstrate advanced writing skills within the context of theological standards for publication of scholarly works
4. Oral Communication: Demonstrate advanced oral communication skills for presenting complex information

Sample Courses

• Lives of the Saints, Dr. Jim Skedros
• Christ in the Old Testament, Fr. Eugen J. Pentiuc
• The Apostle Paul as Pastor: A Social History of the Earliest Christian Communities, Fr. George Parsenios
• The Ethics of Beauty, Dr. Timothy Patitsas
• Sacrament of Marriage, Fr. Philip Zymaris
• Pastoral Care and Mental Health, Dr. Philip Mamalakis
• ThM Thesis I and II

Admissions Requirements

In addition to HCHC graduate admission requirements, applicants for the ThM online degree are required to have completed the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree or its equivalent (e.g., Licentiate of Theology), with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.3 or higher. Applicants holding a Master of Theological Studies (MTS) degree may also apply but may be required to complete up to four additional theology courses (12 credits).

Holy Cross ThM Online Faculty

The faculty of Holy Cross individually and collectively have substantial scholarly accomplishments in the disciplines represented in the curricula of the Master of Theology program. 

• Bruce Neil Beck, ThD, Assistant Professor of New Testament and Director of the Office of Enrollment Management
• V. Rev. Archimandrite Maximos Constas, PhD, Professor of Patristics and Orthodox Spirituality and Director of the Stephen and Catherine Pappas Patristic Institute
• Philip Mamalakis, PhD, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care
• Rev. Fr. George L. Parsenios, PhD, Professor of New Testament and Dean
• Timothy Patitsas, PhD, Assistant Professor of Christian Ethics, Interim Dean of Hellenic College
• Rev. Fr. Eugen J. Pentiuc, PhD, ThD, DD, Archbishop Demetrios Professor of Biblical Studies and Christian Origins, Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages, and Director of Master of Theology Program
• James C. Skedros, ThD, Michael G. and Anastasia Cantonis Professor of Byzantine Studies
• Rev. Fr. Philip Zymaris, PhD, Assistant Professor of Liturgics

Our ThM Online Students

Orthodox priests who are unable to regularly attend classes on campus in the Boston area. The online ThM program provides a path to gain an advanced theological education that otherwise would be out of reach.

International students from Orthodox jurisdictions around the world. The presence of these students contributes to cross-cultural understanding and indicates that Holy Cross is recognized throughout the world as a center of Orthodox theological education and formation. scholarships are available.

MDiv or MTS post-graduates wanting to specialize in an area of Orthodox theological studies.

Students pursuing doctoral degrees in theology.