Welcome to St Athanasius College (SAC). Founded in 2000 and accredited in 2011 as a member college of the collegial University of Divinity, SAC is a Coptic Orthodox theological college that offers units in theology, biblical studies, ancient languages, missiology, philosophy, religious education, ethics, counselling, and Coptic Studies, and many of the units are taught from an Orthodox perspective.
SAC was built upon the pioneering efforts of the late Mr Louis Wahba, who championed the cause to form a centre to provide people within the Diocese of Melbourne quality Christian Orthodox theological education and spiritual formation, and it was then founded and established by His Grace Bishop Suriel who worked tirelessly with members of the College to receive University accreditation.
SAC embraces all those who wish to learn about Christian heritage and Orthodox teachings as either full-time or part-time students. We offer undergraduate and postgraduate study options both on-campus and online, as well as HDR awards.
The College supports local and international students as they journey towards a deeper understanding of Orthodox Christianity and spirituality, helping them grow in their faith as they prepare for diverse fields of ministry. Christian fellowship, liturgical worship and learning are at the heart of our community. SAC provides a supportive learning environment nurturing spiritual growth and cultivating the gifts of each individual. The College equips students with the ministry skills and confidence to serve in the priesthood and religious life, as well as prepares lay people to serve in various roles in mission and ministry such as religious educators, youth leaders, and counsellors.
Classes are delivered at both our Donvale campus, located at 100 Park Road, Donvale, as well as at our city campus that is conveniently located at 285 La Trobe Street in Melbourne’s CBD. Residential facilities are available at our Donvale campus for full-time and part-time students to help them more fully participate in liturgy, prayer and community life.
Our College is named after St Athanasius, who was the 20th patriarch of Alexandria, and is known as the great pillar of Orthodoxy and defender of the Scriptural doctrine of Christ. We follow in the footsteps of St Athanasius by preserving the Gospel truth now and for future generations.
We invite you to become part of our SAC community.