Applications Now Open for the Master of Eastern Orthodox Canon Law

Applications are now open for the 2027–28 academic year for the newly accredited Master of Eastern Orthodox Canon Law (MCL) at the Antiochian House of Studies. This graduate program offers advanced study of the canonical tradition of the Eastern Orthodox Church, bringing together theological depth, historical understanding, scholarly research, and pastoral awareness.

Application Deadline: MAY 31, 2027

Designed for clergy, lay leaders, educators, researchers, and others seeking a deeper understanding of the Church’s canonical life, the MCL prepares students to engage contemporary ecclesial questions with knowledge, discernment, and faithfulness.

A Hybrid Program: Online Study and Required In-Person Residencies

The MCL follows a hybrid format, combining online sessions with required in-person residency participation. Students must attend:

A one-week residency at the beginning of their first academic year

A second one-week residency at the beginning of their second academic year

These two required weeks of residency are an integral part of the program. Residency takes place at the Antiochian Village in western Pennsylvania, typically during the last full week of August. Applicants should consult the AHOS academic calendar for upcoming dates.

Students are responsible for residency expenses, including lodging, meals, and transportation. These costs are separate from AHOS tuition and fees.

A 51-Credit Course of Study

The program comprises 51 graduate credits across a structured six-semester curriculum:

39 Core Credits

6 Elective Credits

6 Master’s Thesis

Students explore a comprehensive range of canonical studies:

Theological Foundations of Canon Law
The Holy Canons
Church Organization and Governance
Marriage and Family
Clergy and Monastic Life
The Holy Mysteries
Ecclesiastical Discipline
Spiritual Courts
Church–State Relations
Contemporary Canonical Questions
Canonical Greek
Primary Canonical Texts

A supervised master’s thesis provides an opportunity for original research in Eastern Orthodox canon law. This formation supports service in teaching, research, publishing, translation, Church administration, and diocesan and parish life, as well as preparation for further graduate study.

Who May Apply?

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree. Prior graduate study is not required for admission.

Applicants who have completed graduate-level theological study elsewhere may submit relevant academic records for consideration of transfer credit. Transfer credit is subject to the Dean’s review and is not guaranteed.

Preparing Your Application

Applicants should prepare the following materials:

An undergraduate transcript uploaded with the application, together with an official transcript sent directly to AHOS by the issuing institution.
A photo identification document and a recent portrait photograph.
A brief personal statement describing the applicant’s background, with particular attention to Church involvement.
A statement of purpose explaining the applicant’s reasons for pursuing the MCL.
A pastoral reference from the applicant’s pastor. Clergy must provide a reference from their bishop or pertinent ecclesiastical authority.
An academic reference. Applicants who completed their undergraduate education more than ten years ago may instead submit a professional reference addressing their writing abilities and readiness for rigorous graduate study.

Applicants must also acknowledge the program’s residency and tuition requirements as part of the application process. A résumé or other supporting document may be submitted optionally. Official transcripts should preferably be sent electronically by the issuing institution to admissions@ahos.edu, attention Alia Sweis.

Planning for Tuition and Residency

Prospective students should plan for both academic fees and the separate costs of attending residency. AHOS does not participate in the Federal Student Aid program.

The application sets out tuition payment deadlines and the conditions for enrollment. Fall course enrollment requires payment of tuition and fees in full, or the first installment under a payment plan, together with completed residency registration and payment.

Applicants should review the tuition and residency agreements carefully and contact Admissions with questions about their circumstances.