BA in Christian Ministry Degree
Pursue Your Calling for Church-Based Work and Leadership
The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry from Grand Canyon University is designed for future ministry leaders who feel called to bring the Word of God to others. Immerse yourself within a Christian environment as you work toward personal and spiritual growth. Offered by the College of Theology, this degree in Christian ministry can equip you for work in fields such as pastoral ministry, administrative ministry, church-based work, missions, Christian nonprofit services or other ministry-focused work. This program teaches you to integrate your faith into all aspects of life and to encourage others in ministry settings to do the same. Prepare yourself to answer the call that God has placed upon your life.
Why Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministry From GCU?
For those with a heart for pastoral leadership, GCU’s BA in Christian Ministry is a foundation upon which to build a career in vocational ministry. The program teaches you the knowledge and skills necessary for faithful Christian ministry. Beyond the curriculum built from the Christian worldview, GCU offers a learning environment that reflects our commitment to following the Word of God. You will join a campus community comprised of students and instructors who share your faith and you will have numerous opportunities to join in on-campus worship activities while working toward your bachelor’s in Christian ministry.
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Develop Core Theological Competencies
The bachelor’s in Christian ministry at GCU teaches a robust and well-rounded theological curriculum. Program courses focus on both professional and personal faith formation, guiding you to clarify your calling and find your own pastoral identity. The curriculum teaches you to apply biblical truths both personally and practically in your life and ministry.
You will be taught competencies in the following domains:
- Biblical foundations
- Moral and spiritual formation
- Historical and theological foundations
- Christian ministry
Particular emphasis is placed on contextualizing Christianity within a variety of diverse situations, allowing future pastors to minister effectively throughout their churches and communities. The professional focus of the program can help you learn to effectively lead and manage within Christian contexts, while the theological focus can prepare you for the spiritual aspects of ministry.
Leadership Skills Taught in This Pastoral Program
To develop ministry leaders capable of building a strong church, courses are also offered on these subjects:
- Relational skills
- Ministry leadership
- Character formation
- Ethics
- Applications of theology
- Communication
Ministry Internships
Ministry internships completed within the program offer you the opportunity to connect doctrine and knowledge learned in classes with practical experience under the supervision of a seasoned gospel minister in the context of local churches and ministries. The internships take place in a university-approved ministry setting and reinforce what you are taught throughout your classes.
Career Paths for BA in Christian Ministry Graduates
A degree in Christian ministry can prepare you for roles in ministry leadership and clergy. You can graduate ready to enter into your intended career directly or to pursue higher theological education, such as our MA in Christian Ministry. You may also choose to enter into a seminary program after acquiring the basic skills and knowledge necessary for a career focused on evangelism and discipleship.
No degree program can guarantee any particular career outcome. However, earning your bachelor’s in Christian ministry can prepare you to pursue positions in:
- Full-time pastorship
- Church administration
- Global or local missionary work
- Nonprofit organizations
GCU Proudly Offers Institutionally Accredited Ministry Degrees
Before choosing a school from which to earn a degree in Christian ministry, it’s important to ensure that the school is institutionally accredited. Institutional accreditation is a reflection of the quality of the school, as acknowledged by its peers. GCU is proud to be institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offering a well-rounded Christian education.
BA in Christian Ministry FAQs
Your choice of degree program can significantly affect your future career. It’s important to take the time to reflect upon your options through research focused on potential careers and degree programs. You can use the following frequently asked questions and answers to begin your decision-making process.
There is no single, universal pathway toward pursuing a career in ministry, and there are no universal requirements for aspiring pastors or other church leaders. Each church will generally establish its own hiring preferences. However, one way to prepare for a career in ministry is to become more active in your current church.
Look for volunteer opportunities and church groups to participate in and discuss your career aspirations with your pastor and other church leaders. When you’re getting ready to head off to college, consider earning a relevant degree, such as a BA in Christian Ministry, which you might follow with earning a Master of Divinity (MDiv). Note that not all churches require aspiring pastors to earn a graduate degree, but larger churches do tend to.1
There are many types of faith-related degrees you could earn. One example is a BA in Christian Ministry. Another possibility is a BA in Christian Studies, perhaps with a concentration in an area of focus, such as worship leadership or global ministry. If your interests lie in multimedia production within church settings, you might consider pursuing a BA in Worship Arts with an Emphasis in Worship Ministry instead. Look for Christian schools that offer college education rooted in the Bible, such as GCU, to explore your degree options.
There are no universal requirements to become a pastor. Different denominations and individual churches may establish their own degree requirements. However, it’s commonplace for aspiring pastors to earn a bachelor’s degree in a relevant area of focus, such as a degree in Christian ministry. Some aspiring pastors may choose to continue their education by pursuing a master’s degree at divinity school, but this may not be a strict requirement at all churches.1
The time it takes to earn a BA in Christian Ministry depends on factors such as your chosen schedule of classes and the particular program you select. At GCU, the bachelor’s in Christian ministry requires a total of 120 credits for completion. Most of the on-campus classes are 15 weeks in length. To better understand how long it might take you to earn your ministry degree at GCU, fill out the form on this page to request a consultation with a university counselor.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the number of new jobs created for all types of clergy to be 1,500 nationwide from 2022 through 2032. However, the importance of adding educated members of the clergy into the church remains unchanged. Churches need pastors and church leaders to deliver and explain the word of God to us. As of 2022, the total employment for all types of clergy throughout the U.S. was 266,700.2
Prepare to lead and inspire others to follow the Word of God with their whole hearts and minds within ministry settings. Apply for enrollment in GCU’s degree in Christian ministry and immerse yourself within higher education from the Christian perspective.
1Learn.org. (n.d.). How can I become a pastor? Learn.org. Retrieved September 7, 2023.
2 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Clergy, retrieved on Sept. 8, 2023.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University’s General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
- COM-263, Elements of Intercultural Communication: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments. Students are required to take 3 credits of college mathematics or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- INT-244, World Religions: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Core Courses
Course Description
This course introduces the text of the Old Testament with emphasis on the biblical narrative, genres, major historical periods, and theological themes.
Course Description
This lab explores pastoral self-reflection, anchoring one’s identity in Christ, and preserving one's identity as roles change and responsibilities increase in life and ministry. This lab is designed to be an interactive, community experience which is not available via independent study.
Course Description
This course introduces the text of the New Testament with emphasis on the biblical narrative, genres, major historical periods, and theological themes.
Course Description
This lab explores practical application of spiritual formation techniques necessary to maintain a vibrant relationship with Christ and others within the context of ministry. This lab is designed to be an interactive, community experience which is not available via independent study.
Course Description
This writing-intensive course helps equip students to understand and use basic principles of biblical hermeneutics, including an introduction to the nature of Bible interpretation and the application to contemporary issues. The majority of the course focuses on developing practical procedures and step-by-step skills in exegesis of Scripture. Prerequisite: BIB-106.
Course Description
This course is a study of theological methodology and the doctrines of revelation, God, humanity, sin, and the person of Jesus Christ with emphasis on the biblical bases for each doctrine.
Course Description
This lab explores the importance of relationships and associated skills, such as listening, conversation, hospitality, and conflict resolution for life and ministry. This lab is designed to be an interactive, community experience which is not available via independent study.
Course Description
This course is an exegetical study of the first major division of the Old Testament with an emphasis on the application of hermeneutical principles. The class focuses on the interpretation of selected passages from the Pentateuch. Attention is also given to textual issues and major theological themes. Prerequisites: BIB-106 and BIB-355.
Course Description
This course is a study of theological methodology and the doctrines of the works of Jesus Christ, salvation, the Holy Spirit, the Church, and last times with emphasis on the biblical bases for each doctrine.
Course Description
This lab focuses on discovering, developing, and practicing skills for leading in ministry. Special attention is given to the shepherding aspects of pastoral ministry. This lab is designed to be an interactive, community experience which is not available via independent study.
Course Description
This course is an exegetical study of the initial books of the New Testament with an emphasis on the application of hermeneutical principles. The class focuses on the interpretation of selected passages from the Gospels and Acts. Attention is also given to textual issues and major theological themes. Prerequisites: BIB-107 and BIB-355.
Course Description
This course examines the biblical truths, spiritual disciplines, virtues, and habits that contribute to the process of discipleship, form Christian character, and result in Christ-likeness. Special attention is given to the doctrine of sanctification and teaching related to ministerial ethics and the cultivation of Christ-like character. Prerequisites: BIB-106 and BIB-107 or BIB-100.
Course Description
This writing-intensive course systematically studies the biblical, theological, and philosophical foundations of Christian ethics as compared with other ethical systems that shape public discourse on ethical issues. Emphasis is placed on personal morality and an exploration of contemporary issues relevant to the church's public witness.
Course Description
This course consists of an internship experience in an approved ministry setting. The course includes reinforcement of all program competencies, practical experiences, academic journaling, as well as a field experience log, and culminating reflection assignment. Students should begin the internship application process after completion of 80 credit hours in the program. Practicum/field experience hours: 180.
Course Description
This course focuses on the practical ministry application of theological principles. Special attention is given to theological reflection in respect to methodology, apologetics, ethics, and the mission of the church.
Course Description
This course is a study of the theory and methods of oral communication with emphasis on the development of speaking and listening skills for application in ministerial contexts such as preaching, teaching, small group discussion, and interpersonal communication. Prerequisites: BIB-106, BIB-107, and BIB-355.
Course Description
This course examines pastoral leadership skills needed to effectively navigate ministry. Special attention is given to pastoral identity, life management, shepherding and discipling, and the biblical qualifications for pastoral/ministerial leadership.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.