Canon 760

1. It is permissible to ordain a deacon only after he has successfully completed the fourth year of a curriculum of

philosophical-theological studies, unless the synod of bishops of

the patriarchal Church or the council of hierarchs determines

otherwise. 2. If it is a case of a candidate who is not destined for the priesthood, it is permitted to ordain him deacon

only after he has successfully completed the third year of

studies mentioned in can. 354; if however it happens later that

he is admitted to the priesthood, he must first complete his

theological studies in the appropriate manner.