BA Christian Studies - Philosophy
Explore Christian Studies from a Philosophical Perspective in the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies – Philosophy Degree
Deepen your appreciation for Christian doctrine, Christian history and biblical truths with the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Philosophy degree program. Grand Canyon University is pleased to offer an intensive theological education to students who wish to faithfully serve others within the Christian church and other Christian organizations. Develop your theological, religious and philosophical knowledge while preparing to engage the public as an ethical servant leader.
This Christian philosophy Bachelor of Arts degree is offered by GCU’s College of Theology. Students delve deeply into the Christian worldview and its philosophical basis as they nurture their ability to minister to others with wisdom and sensitivity. All students at GCU are encouraged to become effective communicators, ethical decision-makers and inspiring leaders who hold fast to the Christian worldview as they explore a diverse range of perspectives and visions.
Early on in their studies, Christian philosophy students are expected to affirm the Doctrinal Statement and the College of Theology Covenant.
Examine Philosophy and Ethics Within Ministerial Contexts
Personal faith formation and professional development are both key objectives for this BA in Christian philosophy degree program. Students receive support from likeminded peers and thoughtful guidance from accomplished instructors as they work to develop their Christian character. GCU is a modern, inclusive university that effectively prepares students to share their knowledge and understanding of Christian doctrines.
You will learn to apply critical thinking skills as you analyze and assess ideas and ethical systems. Core curriculum areas include epistemology and metaphysics, as well as the ethical and philosophical roots of religion. Students practice expressing biblical truths to others in effective written and oral communication. There is an emphasis on Christian ethics, personal morality and the exploration of contemporary issues that are relevant to the church’s public witness. Other core curriculum areas include the following:
- The study of representative philosophical problems, including the use of analytic tools for the practice of critical thinking and knowledge evaluation
- An in-depth study of the nature of knowledge and the knowledge of self, with an emphasis on the nature of humans, free will, the meaning of life and life after death
- Bio-ethical and social issues that present challenging questions of morality
- The key events, personalities, movements and theological developments that have shaped Christianity throughout its history
The Bachelor of Arts in Christian philosophy degree program concludes with an intensive exploration of the fundamental issues in religion and religious experiences. Students will explore arguments for the existence and nature of God.
Pursue an Impactful Career in Ministry With a BA in Christian Studies – Philosophy
A Christian philosophy Bachelor of Arts degree is a versatile career credential that may enable graduates to pursue meaningful work within the ministry. Graduates are prepared to engage others in thoughtful discussions of biblical truths, theology and philosophy. This ability may prepare graduates to pursue ministerial roles within the church and other Christian organizations. Some specific careers that may be related to this degree include:
- Youth pastor
- Religious activities director
- Volunteer coordinator
- Christian school teacher
GCU seeks to graduate future Christian leaders who are capable of spreading the love of God in a diverse range of ministerial contexts. Some students may choose to further enhance their career qualifications by pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree through 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 an introduction to the discipline of philosophy through a study of representative philosophical problems. Students are introduced to analytic tools that enable them to practice critical thinking, evaluate knowledge claims, and establish a rationale and justification for other academic disciplines. Topics to be considered include logic, epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics.
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 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 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 is an advanced study of the nature of knowledge and our knowledge of self and world. It investigates sources and theories of knowledge and rational belief, the role of intellectual virtues in knowledge. Attention will also be given to topics such as the nature of human persons, whether persons have free will, whether there is life after death, and the meaning of life. Prerequisite: PHI-103.
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 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 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 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 difficult moral questions related to challenging bio-ethical and social issues in order to identify the morally correct course of action in various areas of human life. Prerequisite: PHI-103.
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 investigates fundamental issues related to religion and religious experience from a philosophical perspective. Attention will be given to arguments for the existence and nature of God, the problem of evil, faith and reason, and the coherence of theism. Prerequisite: PHI-301.
Program Locations
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.
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.