Is ACTS a good theological school?
By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-09
ACTS (Agape Canon Theological Seminary) is an excellent institution for those seeking a deep, academic, and spiritually grounded education in the Coptic Orthodox tradition.
It serves as the theological school for the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Los Angeles, Southern California, and Hawaii, and it is under the leadership and presidency of H.E. Metropolitan Serapion. The school’s administration is led by His Grace Bishop Kyrillos, who serves as the Dean.
Here are a few reasons why it is considered a premier school for Coptic studies:
1. Academic Rigor and Accreditation
ACTS offers high-level theological education that is academically rigorous. It provides several programs, including a Master of Arts in Contemporary Coptic Orthodox Theological Studies. The school is unique because it bridges the gap between traditional patristic learning and modern academic standards. It is a member of the Claremont School of Theology affiliation and is integrated into the broader academic community while maintaining its strict Orthodox identity.
2. Qualified Leadership and Faculty
The school is guided by highly educated clergy and scholars. His Grace Bishop Kyrillos (the Dean) and Dr. Sarah Morcos (Associate Dean of Administration) oversee the operations. The faculty consists of priests and laypeople who are experts in their fields, such as Fr. Daniel Habib (Associate Dean of Academic Affairs). The curriculum ensures that students are learning from those who live the faith they are studying.
3. Comprehensive Curriculum
The school provides a wide array of courses that are vital for any Coptic servant or scholar, including:
- Patristics: Studying the writings of the Early Church Fathers like St. Athanasius and St. Cyril.
- Dogmatics: Understanding the Miaphysite Christology of the Coptic Church.
- Liturgical Studies: Deep dives into the history and theology of the Divine Liturgy.
- Coptic Language: Instruction in the native tongue of the Egyptian Church.
4. Accessibility
ACTS is designed to be accessible to students both locally and globally. It offers many courses online, allowing people outside of the Los Angeles area to benefit from the treasures of the Alexandrian school of theology.
Financial and Academic Integrity
The school maintains strict standards for its students. For example, regarding academic progress, if a student receives a grade of "Incomplete" and fails to meet the deadline, it reverts to an "F" unless there are extenuating medical circumstances or a death in the family, which must be petitioned through the Committee on Academic Procedures (CAP).
If you are looking to grow in your knowledge of the faith, defend the Coptic Orthodox perspective accurately, or prepare for ordained ministry or service, ACTS is an outstanding choice. It is sponsored by His Grace Bishop Kyrillos, Auxiliary Bishop in the Diocese of Los Angeles.