Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

57.9%Acceptance

$22,490Tuition

49Students

44%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$51,724Earnings

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindLiberal ArtsStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Greek Orthodox

About Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

This specialized institution serves as the primary seminary and college for the Greek Orthodox Church in America. With just 49 students enrolled, Hellenic College-Holy Cross trains future priests, theologians, and lay leaders through rigorous theological education and undergraduate liberal arts programs. The suburban Brookline campus sits near Boston, offering students access to one of America's most academic cities. Every single student who enrolls returns for their second year, reflecting the school's tight-knit community and focused mission. The 7:1 student-faculty ratio ensures intensive mentorship in both spiritual formation and academic study.

Students pay an average net price of $14,334 after aid, making this theological education surprisingly affordable. Graduates earn a median salary of $51,724 ten years after graduation, which covers the typical monthly loan payment of $228 comfortably. With median debt of just $21,500, students avoid the crushing debt loads common at other private colleges. The financial picture makes sense for those called to ministry, where salaries may be modest but student debt remains manageable.

The student body is overwhelmingly male at 82%, reflecting the traditional nature of Orthodox clergy training. About 30% of students come from Massachusetts, while the rest arrive from Orthodox communities nationwide seeking this specialized education.

Academics & Faculty

Hellenic College specializes in Orthodox Christian education, combining undergraduate liberal arts with seminary training for future Greek Orthodox clergy and lay leaders. The 7:1 student-faculty ratio means students work closely with professors in small, discussion-based classes. With only 49 students total, everyone knows each other and receives individualized attention. The college offers unique programs in Byzantine music, Orthodox theology, and Greek studies that you won't find at most institutions. Students can pursue dual degrees in classics and theology or focus on religious education. The 57% four-year graduation rate reflects the rigorous academic demands, but the 100% retention rate shows students stay committed to their specialized calling.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Full-Time Faculty: 45.5%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 57.4%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 44.4%
Retention Rate: 100.0%
Median Earnings (10 years): $51,724
Carnegie Classification: Liberal Arts College

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Theological and Ministerial Studies.	Master	$33,993

View all 15 programs →

Campus Life

The 49 students at this Orthodox seminary live in a tight-knit community where everyone knows each other by name. The student-faculty ratio of 7:1 means professors aren't just instructors but spiritual mentors who guide future clergy and lay leaders. With 227 housing spots available, most students live on campus in Brookline, just eight miles from downtown Boston. You'll need a heavy winter coat for New England's harsh winters, plus layers for the unpredictable spring and fall weather.

Weekend life revolves around Orthodox liturgy and community worship rather than typical college parties. The 81.6% male enrollment reflects the school's focus on training priests, though women study theology and ministry too. Students often venture into Boston for cultural events or simply to experience city life beyond the suburban campus. Chapel services anchor daily routines alongside classes in theology, Greek language, and liberal arts. The 100% retention rate suggests students find what they're looking for in this specialized religious environment where faith and academics intertwine completely.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 227 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available

Campus Safety (2023)

No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 19°–37°F
July Avg: 64°–84°F
Annual Precipitation: 49.4"
Annual Snowfall: 49.2"

Student Demographics

This small Orthodox Christian institution draws students from across the country, with 70% coming from outside Massachusetts. The student body is overwhelmingly male at 82%, reflecting the school's primary mission of training Greek Orthodox priests and clergy. Most students are white, aligning with traditional Greek Orthodox communities, though the school welcomes diverse backgrounds. With only 49 total students, everyone knows each other on this intimate Brookline campus. The school serves middle-class families, as just 18% receive Pell Grants. Students here are serious about their Orthodox faith and committed to serving the church.

Men: 81.6%
Women: 18.4%
White: 67.4%
Black: 2.0%
Hispanic: 2.0%
Asian: 2.0%
In-State Students: 30.0%
Pell Grant Recipients: 18.0%

Location

This specialized Orthodox Christian institution sits in Brookline, Massachusetts, just outside Boston's city limits. The campus serves 49 students in a suburban setting that provides easy access to one of America's most college-dense metropolitan areas. Brookline offers the advantages of a well-established residential community while keeping students connected to Boston's academic and cultural resources. The Greater Boston area hosts over 50 colleges and universities, creating an intellectually active environment for theological study. The school draws 70% of its students from out of state, reflecting its national role in Orthodox Christian education. Students considering colleges in Massachusetts may also compare Hellenic College-Holy Cross with similar schools in the region.

Address: Brookline, Massachusetts 02445-7415

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $51,724
Median Earnings (5 years): $49,115
Loan Repayment Rate: 60.6%
Monthly Loan Payment: $228/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $21,500

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology?

The acceptance rate is 57.89%, making admission moderately selective. This specialized Orthodox Christian institution focuses on training clergy and lay leaders for the Greek Orthodox Church. With only 49 total students enrolled, the school maintains an intimate academic community.

How much does Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology cost after financial aid?

The average net price is $14,334, lower than the full tuition of $22,490. Only 17.95% of students receive federal financial aid, reflecting the school's unique mission-driven student body. The total cost of attendance including room and board reaches $39,282.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology?

The student-faculty ratio is an exceptionally low 7:1, ensuring personalized attention in theological and liberal arts studies. This small class environment supports the school's mission of intensive Orthodox Christian education. The retention rate is 100%, indicating strong student satisfaction with the academic experience.

What are the graduation outcomes at Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology?

The 4-year graduation rate is 57.35%, while the 6-year rate drops to 44.40%. Graduates earn a median salary of $51,724 ten years after graduation, reflecting careers in ministry and Orthodox Christian service. The median debt load is $21,500 with monthly loan payments of $228.

Where is Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology located?

The campus is situated in Brookline, Massachusetts, a large suburban setting near Boston. Housing capacity accommodates 227 students, well above the current enrollment of 49. The location provides access to a significant Greek Orthodox community while maintaining a focused academic environment.

Is Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology primarily for men or women?

The student body is 81.63% male and 18.37% female, reflecting traditional patterns in Orthodox seminary education. This gender distribution aligns with the school's primary mission of training Orthodox clergy, historically a male-dominated field. The school serves both undergraduate liberal arts students and seminary candidates preparing for ordination.