As of fall 2025, Iconology replaces the previous Iconography concentration. The Iconology Concentration, available to students in both the Certificate and MTS programs, offers three courses that delve into the rich history, symbolism, and meaning of Orthodox Christian iconography, providing a solid base for anyone interested in pursuing hands-on iconography training in the future. An art background is not required; courses are academic in nature.
Courses Required for Iconology Concentration
Below is the course sequence for Iconology students entering the program in fall 2025. Courses specific to the Iconology Concentration are indicated with asterisks (*); other courses are in common with the General Track curriculum. This information is subject to change.
Unit I:
• Fundamentals: An Introduction to the Ethos of the Orthodox Church
• Church History I: The Christian Church from Its Foundation through the Seventh Century
• Liturgical Theology I: Introduction to Liturgical Theology, Baptism and Eucharist
Unit II:
• Church History II: The Orthodox Church from the Seventh Century to 1453
• Holy Scripture I: Old Testament
• Theology of Religion
• Project I
Unit III:
• Holy Scripture II: New Testament
• Patristics: The Fathers of the Church During the First Five Hundred Years
• Iconology I*
Unit IV:
• Doctrine I: The Doctrine of Knowledge In the Tradition of the Church
• Pastoral Theology I
• History of the Church of Antioch
• Iconology II*
• Project II
Unit V:
• Doctrine II: The Orthodox Doctrine of the Holy Trinity
• Canon Law: The Canon Law of the Orthodox Church
• Iconology III*
Unit VI (Master’s students only):
• Master’s Thesis
*courses specific to the Iconology concentration
Review the Application Process or Apply Now.
Directed-Project Courses
The directed-project courses of the Byzantine Iconology Concentration are offered in the spring semester of each year (Units II, IV) and will generally address a particular need in the area of Iconography. They will include a proposal submitted for approval to the Iconography Program Director and the Projects Director; the directed Project itself; and a Project paper with supporting detail.
Residency
An intensive week-long Residency takes place in late August or early September at the start of the first two academic years, and is held at the Antiochian VIllage Conference & Retreat Center in western Pennsylvania.
Program Completion
Students who successfully complete the required coursework, and who hold a Bachelor’s degree, may choose to pursue a Master’s thesis, leading to the degree of Master of Theological Studies. Students who do not wish to pursue the Master’s degree will receive the St. Stephen’s Certificate in Orthodox Theology.
Master’s Thesis
Master’s students who successfully complete the required coursework, and who satisfy the other prerequisites, may enter the final phase of their program which includes research and thesis composition focusing on a practical application of Orthodox Theology. Master’s students will also be enrolled in a thesis-preparatory course titled “Master’s Thesis: Sources and Methods” which covers:
- Presentation of a Thesis Proposal (abstract)
- Thesis research and preparation
- Thesis approval process and deadlines
- Completion and defense of the Master’s Thesis
For more information, please review the Application Process or Apply Now.
