Gain a Deeper Understanding with a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies Degree
Future Christian leaders who desire to know and love Christ are invited to apply to the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Biblical Studies program. This biblical studies degree, offered online by Grand Canyon University, is an intensive survey of Christian doctrine, Christian history, theology and biblical interpretation. Students undergo an in-depth exploration of the Bible, including both the Old and New Testaments, as well as Hebrew poetry and wisdom literature.
Offered by the College of Theology, the biblical studies BA degree prepares future servant leaders to effectively and humbly communicate the word of God to a variety of audiences. Students are encouraged to explore issues pertaining to personal morality. While developing a solid grasp on the Christian worldview, students gain an understanding of other major world religions.
Explore the Bible’s Teachings and Other Worldviews
GCU students studying the Christian faith on campus are immersed within a warm, welcoming community of likeminded peers and instructors, all of whom are seeking to grow closer to God. For the convenience of modern learners, classes are also available online. Most online courses are seven weeks in length. A total of 120 credits are required for degree completion.
In addition to closely studying the major teachings and doctrines of the Christian faith, biblical studies students explore effective teaching styles and methodologies. Graduates will be prepared to effectively minister to a diverse range of audiences, including church congregations, small groups and student groups. In courses such as Gospels and Acts, Biblical Interpretation and Application, Pentateuch and Hebrew Prophets, students will explore these core curriculum areas:
- Interpretation of selected passages from the Gospels and Acts in light of major theological themes
- Pre-exilic, exilic and post-exilic prophets, including their ministry and message, studied with consideration for the social, political and religious conditions of their times
- The use of the basic principles of biblical hermeneutics, including their application to contemporary issues
- The development of literature, composition and theological themes pertaining to the Hebrew poetry and wisdom literature in the Old Testament
There is an emphasis on Christian character formation and the study of ethical decision-making for modern Christians. Under the thoughtful guidance of knowledgeable instructors, students develop their speaking and listening skills within various ministerial contexts.
Prepare to Share God’s Word With a Biblical Studies BA Degree
Follow your faith toward a career path that allows you to share God’s word in meaningful, impactful ways. Graduates of this Bachelor of Arts in biblical studies degree are prepared to pursue a variety of positions as servant leaders within the Christian church. Some may feel called to work as domestic or foreign missionaries, Bible school teachers or worship coordinators. Other career possibilities that may be related to this degree program include the following:
- Youth pastor
- Ministry director
- Educational program director
Some graduates may choose to bring the Christian perspective to other career paths, such as by becoming social workers or family therapists. Some jobs may require additional academic qualifications, which may include certification or licensure. Upon graduating with a BA in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Biblical Studies, some future Christian leaders may elect to delve more deeply into Christian doctrine by applying to the Grand Canyon Theological Seminary.
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, crosscultural 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
Program 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 course introduces the text of the New Testament with emphasis on the biblical narrative, genres, major historical periods, and theological themes.
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 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. Prerequisites: ENG-105 and BIB-106.
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 course is a study of Hebrew poetry and wisdom literature in the Old Testament. Attention is given to the development of the literature as well as an investigation of each book's composition and theological themes. Prerequisite: 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.
Course Description
This writing intensive course is a survey of global Christianity that examines the mission and purposes of God and His people among the nations. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of recent mission movements, best practices for mission strategies, and contemporary trends in global Christianity. Prerequisite: HTH-201.
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 offers a critical study of the pre-exilic, exilic, and post-exilic prophets, with special consideration given to the social, political, and religious conditions of their times. Attention is given to the ministry and message of the prophets, in their day and today. Prerequisite: BIB-355.
Course Description
This course surveys the major developments within the history of Christianity that have shaped Christian doctrine. Emphasis is placed on key events, personalities, theological developments, and movements. Prerequisites: HTH-201 and HTH-202.
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 provides an overview of the Apostle Paul's letters to the early New Testament churches. Special attention is given to the nature of Paul's ministry; the theological, social, and practical issues he addressed; and how these texts are relevant for faithful Christian living. Prerequisite: BIB-355.
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 covers Hebrews, James, 1 and 2 Peter, 1-3 John, and Jude as they relate to the theological and ethical content of Christianity. Students examine the nature, message, and historical context of the books. Prerequisite: BIB-355.
Campus
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. New modern classrooms, suite-style residence halls, popular dining options, resort-style swimming pools and a focus on creating a dynamic student life make GCU a top choice for high school graduates and transfer students. Exciting events, well-known guest speakers and Division I athletics round out the traditional student experience. Our welcoming campus community is the perfect place to find your purpose.
Online
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere. GCU offers the most experienced leadership in delivering online degree programs. Full-time faculty members and fully trained adjunct instructors, equipped with strong academic backgrounds and practical experience in their fields, support you every step of the way. Designed with the career-oriented professional in mind, our online classes provide an intimate environment that stimulates engaging and challenging discussions. Choose from programs across our distinct colleges, in high-demand employment areas. Classes begin frequently.
* Please note that this list may contain programs that are not presently offered as program availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability of the program.
* The Department of Education defines how an institution must calculate a program's On-Time Completion rate for federal disclosure purposes. The On-Time Completion rate is based on a program's published required number of months to complete all degree requirements as provided in the institution's catalog. Completion statistics are updated every January and are based on the cohort of students who started the program in the same year and then graduated within the published program length .
Online and Evening program disclosures (4 years) On-campus program disclosures (4 years)* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Program subject to change.