Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology Reviews

"This school presents an inaccurate image of itself to the public. Apart from some decent dogmatic and liturgical classes, the general ethos is hostile to diversity and undefined. The program expectations change each semester with a high leadership turnover. In less than four year the school has had 3 Dean of students and 3 Deans of the graduate school. Its atmosphere favors its undergraduate school. Thus the graduate program as a whole feels more like an extended undergraduate program. Its public presentation claims a much different standard and quality of life. But the overall reality and inconsistencies beg to differ. Hellenism is a strong component of the school with a strong element of submission to authoritarian leadership. Diversity is only superficially tolerated as one will feel extreme pressure from peers and certain clergy and faculty if you have different opinions. Despite being on academic probation twice it still struggles to clarify its objectives while hiring young and in experienced leadership in lieu of seasoned and professional clergy and staff. Biased goes to who you know and not so much credibility."

"I would not recommend college of the holy cross to others. There is an extreme lack of diversity on campus that breeds intolerance. The student body is very materialistic and elitist and not inclusive of others . This school also pushes a conservative agenda on its students"

"I feel the school has several great professors who are very helpful and knowledgeable. However, the academic standards are too low, students should be held to higher standards, and the workload should increase."

"Holy Cross School of Theology has a dedicated faculty and staff who are genuinely interested in helping you attain both academic excellence and practical experience for the field of theology. The community on campus is its greatest asset as the totality of the community is willing and eager to help each other and to support one another. There are also a multiplicity of opportunities to be involved on campus and to fine-tune one's leadership skills as well. Though there are some setbacks such as the small size of the student body and the absence of some newer technologies on campus, it remains a beacon of academic excellence in its field and is truly a one of a kind institute in its own right."

"Holy Cross offers the only Orthodox Christian Theological Studies program for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. This makes it a unique place to learn Christian Theology from the perspective of eastern Christian tradition--typically not well known in America. Being the only seminary in the country also provides a big benefit in that so many remarkable people come to visit the school, making it a great place to network and get involved with the Orthodox Christian community. The school also offers a wide variety of interesting historical, theological, and pastoral classes. However, sometimes the overall effectiveness of classes is marred by the fact that they are taught by faculty members who have extensively busy schedules or are a bit lacking in course organization. Overall, though, Holy Cross has provided me with a great educational opportunity so far. I have learned an astounding amount in one year's time and appreciated regular access to a full experience of chapel life. Finally, but certainly not least, the welcoming and friendly community on campus is top-notch! The student community is great and very close while faculty/administration is generally very accessible, helpful, and caring."