Programs Overview
Forming clergy and lay leaders for faithful service in the Orthodox church.
About Our Programs
Guided by its institutional mission and self-understanding within the historical memory and living tradition of both the Seminary and the wider Church, and mindful of the example of Christ Himself in calling His disciples, St. Tikhon’s Seminary offers a range of programs dedicated to theological education, pastoral formation, and specialized ministry training in service to Christ and His Church.
What Distinguishes St. Tikhon’s Seminary
In a rural environment conducive to spiritual growth and academic study, the Seminary nurtures the theological vocations of its students and faculty, who share the unique opportunity of learning and teaching Orthodox theology in the framework of their daily experience of a rich heritage of Orthodox spiritual and liturgical tradition.
Patristic Foundation
Grounded in the teachings of the Holy Fathers and the living tradition of the Orthodox Church.
Pastoral Focus
Joining theological study with pastoral formation with practical preparation for parish ministry.
Small Class Sizes
Fostering meaningful discussion within a close-knit Orthodox learning community.
Faculty Mentorship
Building relationships with experienced clergy and faculty who provide mentorship and guidance.
Our Formation Pathways
- Learn more View Master of Divinity
Master of Divinity
A three-year residential Master of Divinity program preparing students for ordained ministry and lay leadership.
- Learn more View Certificate In Diaconal Formation
Certificate In Diaconal Formation
A part-time, two-year non-degree certificate program intended to prepare men for the holy diaconate.
- Learn more View Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program
An accredited clinical pastoral education certificate program designed to strengthen pastoral skills.
- Learn more View Certificate In Prison Ministry
Certificate In Prison Ministry
A non-degree certificate program intended to prepare clergy and lay volunteers for Orthodox ministry in correctional settings.
- Learn more View St. Tikhon's Seminary Chicago Program
St. Tikhon's Seminary Chicago Program
A hybrid Master of Divinity program for episcopally hand-selected men in the Chicagoland area.
Field Education & Internship
The Field Education and Internship Program at St. Tikhon’s Seminary emphasizes the practical formation of dedicated pastors and spiritual counselors. In addition to academic coursework and the community's rich liturgical life, the program provides seminarians with supervised experience in ministering across a variety of pastoral settings.
Through active engagement in authentic pastoral situations, students apply the theological knowledge gained in the classroom to real-life ministry contexts that require pastoral sensitivity, wisdom, and discernment. Under the guidance of experienced supervisors and mentors, seminarians develop the practical skills necessary for faithful pastoral ministry in Christ’s Holy Church.
Not Sure Which Program Is Right For You?
Whether you are discerning ordained ministry, theological education, chaplaincy, or lay service, the Vocations Hub is designed to help you explore the formation pathway best suited to your calling, circumstances, and gifts.
Take The Next Step...
Ready to pursue your vocation? The Master of Divinity program at St. Tikhon’s Seminary integrates academic study, liturgical life, and pastoral preparation within the context of a residential community rooted in the living tradition of the Church. Apply today to begin preparation for service in Christ’s Holy Church.
Apply Now