BA in Christian Studies: Global Ministry Emphasis
BA in Christian Studies: Global Ministry Emphasis
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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.
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.
You don’t need to live in Phoenix to benefit from a Christian education at GCU. Complete your degree in global ministries online and enjoy the same quality instruction and breadth of curriculum as our on-campus students. Our e-learning platform offers intuitive navigation and interactive features that can enable you to connect with peers and professors and benefit from exposure to a range of perspectives.
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:
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.
GCU welcomes undergraduates who desire a traditional college experience on campus. Attend classes with other Christian students through in-person lectures and classroom discussions. While you complete your bachelor’s in Christian studies on campus, you’ll have access to all the amenities that GCU offers — from our 13 gyms and recreational spaces to diverse dining options to numerous clubs and activities.
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.
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.
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
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.
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.
Other core competencies of this degree include the following:
Nurture your love of God and prepare for a career rooted in faith. Fill out the form to learn more about the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies: global ministry emphasis degree at GCU.
