BA in Christian Studies: Global Ministry Emphasis
Empower Communities With Christian Global Ministries
Faith leaders educated in initiatives for Christian global ministries strive to bring the Word of God and the love of Christ to people around the world. You can nurture your faith while preparing for a career in global ministry at Grand Canyon University. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Global Ministry is a comprehensive survey of Christian doctrines, theological knowledge and cross-cultural ministry within national and international contexts.
Earn a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies at GCU
This degree is offered by the College of Theology to students who feel called to join the next generation of contemporary Christian leaders around the world. You will have the opportunity to deepen your understanding of biblical truths and Christian history while exploring leadership styles and communication strategies. While pursuing an education in global ministry, you are expected to affirm the Doctrinal Statement and College of Theology Covenant.
At GCU, you can immerse yourself in a supportive, welcoming campus environment. Our private Christian university is an inclusive place that welcomes all who desire to know and love God.
Global Ministry Course Topics
Throughout your bachelor’s in Christian studies program, you will have the opportunity to develop a firm foundation of biblical and theological knowledge and to explore its practical, modern applications. You can develop your own Christ-like character as you consider impactful ways to minister to others. Cross-cultural studies are a major component of this degree. You will work through a breadth of curriculum that covers a range of Christian global ministries topics, including:
- The cultivation of a Christ-like character, including the biblical truths, spiritual disciplines, virtues and habits that contribute to discipleship
- Contemporary trends in global Christianity, examining recent mission movements and best practices for mission strategies
- Theory and methods of oral ministerial communication, including preaching, teaching and small group discussion
- Strategies for evangelizing while remaining respectful to others’ beliefs and practices
Explore Principles, History and Developments in Christianity
When you pursue an education in global ministry at GCU, you will be taught the principles of anthropology within the context of missiology. You will examine how to analyze and engage groups of people in different cultural contexts. There is a focus on contemporary issues in global ministry. Other core competencies of this degree include the following:
- The principles and methods for faithfully ministering to people of diverse backgrounds, with an emphasis on North American cultural engagement
- The historical background, religious texts, beliefs and current practices of the major contemporary religions, including Abrahamic and Eastern religions
- The major developments in the history of Christianity that influenced Christian doctrine
- The basic principles of biblical hermeneutics and their application to contemporary ethical issues
Graduates can be prepared to thoughtfully and actively listen to people of diverse backgrounds and faiths and to tailor an effective gospel presentation in response.
Career Paths for Graduates With a Bachelor’s in Christian Studies
With a focus on cultural awareness and gospel ministry, GCU’s courses in global ministries online or on campus are designed to prepare you to become a servant leader at home and abroad. Graduates may choose to pursue work as foreign missionaries, where they may spread the love of Christ and the Word of God to in-need communities around the world.
Some graduates may elect to further their studies to enhance their career qualifications and position themselves to pursue potentially high-level leadership positions. Grand Canyon Theological Seminary offers a number of master’s and doctoral degree programs for interested Christian leaders.
Focus on Christian Global Ministries at an Institutionally Accredited University
As an institutionally accredited university by the Higher Learning Commission, GCU's mission is to meet high academic standards, empowering our students to thoroughly prepare for their chosen fields. The College of Theology shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
BA in Christian Studies: Global Ministry Emphasis FAQs
As you reflect upon your future career pathway, it can be helpful to research your intended field and your career options. GCU has compiled the following FAQs and answers to guide you in your decision-making process as you consider pursuing a career in Christian global ministries.
For Christians, global ministry is an opportunity to embrace God’s Word and serve him throughout his entire kingdom. It allows Christians to reach the hearts and minds of others by sharing the news of salvation through Jesus Christ. As a missionary-minded Christian, you could work to plant the seeds of faith in communities around the world.
Initiatives designed for global ministries do generally involve traveling to other communities around the world. It’s an opportunity for Christians to experience other cultures and worldviews and to share their own worldviews and beliefs with others. Some international ministry programs last only a matter of weeks, while others may last several years.1
Missionaries have multiple roles, but their primary role is to share their religious beliefs with the people of the local community. Commonly, missionaries travel to regions of the world that can benefit from practical assistance, as well. For example, some missionaries are medical professionals who provide medical care. Others teach English or work on biblical justice initiatives.2
While you’re working toward your BA in Christian Studies, you may decide to participate in outreach initiatives within your local community or throughout the world. There are indeed opportunities for students to experience hands-on learning opportunities within a Christian global ministries context. These opportunities can vary, depending on the school you choose. At GCU, we offer numerous outreach activities that connect students to our local community, as well as communities around the world.
Nurture your love of God and prepare for a career rooted in faith. Fill out the form on this page to learn more about the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies: global ministry emphasis degree at GCU.
1 Skewes, L. (2020, Jan. 28). Types of missionary trips that make a lasting impact. WorldTrips. Retrieved Dec. 15, 2023.
2 Online Christian Colleges. (n.d.). What does a missionary do? Retrieved Dec. 15, 2023.
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Online: $410 per credit
[Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid]
Cost of Attendance
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 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 the major contemporary religions of the world including Abrahamic religions, Eastern religions, and other religions. The course covers religious texts, historical background, and current beliefs and practices. Emphasis is given to the ideological foundations of a Christian worldview, a comparison of worldviews, and the application of worldviews within a global society.
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. Prerequisite: BIB-106.
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 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 prepares students to listen carefully to a person of another religion or worldview in order to effectively tailor a gospel presentation that accurately presents the claims of Christ and respectfully considers the hearer. For individuals who are responsive to the gospel, it provides sound practices for continuing and deepening the new believer’s relationship with Jesus.
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 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 examines principles of anthropology within the context of missiology for the purpose of developing a tool kit that will enable students to analyze and engage people groups living within various cultural contexts. Attention is given to multiple dimensions of human culture as well as issues related to social justice and biblical mercy. Prerequisite: INT-244.
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 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 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 examines principles and methods for faithfully ministering within the Late Modern context in a way that is meaningful to people from diverse backgrounds. Attention is given to the influence of Christianity on culture and vice versa during the 20th and 21st centuries as well as issues related to social justice and biblical mercy. Emphasis is placed on North American cultural engagement with apologetic concern and sensitivity to contemporary values.
- 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.
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.