Bachelor’s in Christian Studies Degree: Philosophy Emphasis
Explore the Christian Doctrine and Biblical Truths From a Philosophical Perspective
Deepen your appreciation for Christian doctrine, Christian history and biblical truths by earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Philosophy. Grand Canyon University is pleased to offer a theological education to students who wish to faithfully serve others within the Christian church and other Christian organizations. You will be introduced to theological, religious and philosophical knowledge while preparing to engage the public as an ethical servant leader.
Earn Your BA in Christian Studies With a Philosophy Emphasis From GCU
This Christian studies degree with a philosophy emphasis is offered by GCU’s College of Theology. As a Christian philosophy student, you will have the opportunity to delve deeply into the Christian worldview and its philosophical basis as you nurture your ability to minister to others with wisdom and sensitivity.
All students at GCU are encouraged to become effective communicators, ethical decision-makers and inspiring servant leaders who hold fast to the Christian worldview as they explore a diverse range of perspectives and visions. Early on in your Christian philosophy studies, you will be expected to affirm the Doctrinal Statement and the College of Theology Covenant.
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Be Taught to Analyze and Assess Ideas and Ethical Systems
Personal faith formation and professional development are both key objectives for this bachelor’s degree in Christian studies. You can expect to receive support from peers and thoughtful guidance from accomplished instructors as you work to develop your Christian character. As a Christian university, GCU strives to prepare you to share Christian doctrines.
You will be taught to develop critical thinking skills during opportunities to analyze and assess ideas and ethical systems. Core curriculum areas include epistemology and metaphysics, as well as the ethical and philosophical roots of religion. Christian philosophy students are required to practice expressing biblical truths to others in effective written and oral communication. This Christian studies degree prioritizes Christian ethics, personal morality and the exploration of contemporary issues that are relevant to the church’s public witness.
Comprehensive Christian Philosophy Curriculum
Core Christian philosophy curriculum areas for this degree in Christian studies include the following:
- The investigation of representative philosophical problems, including the use of analytic tools for the practice of critical thinking and concept evaluation
- An in-depth exploration 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’s degree in Christian studies with a philosophy emphasis concludes with an in-depth exploration of the fundamental issues in religion and religious experiences. You will explore arguments for the existence and nature of God.
Career Paths for BA in Christian Studies: Philosophy Emphasis Graduates
A degree in Christian studies with an emphasis in philosophy is a versatile career credential that may provide a springboard for you to pursue meaningful work within the ministry. This degree strives to prepare you to engage others in thoughtful discussions of biblical truths, theology and philosophy. Christian philosophy competencies may prepare you to pursue ministerial roles within the church and other Christian organizations, such as in the role of a religious activities and education director, or postsecondary philosophy and religion 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.
GCU Offers Institutionally Accredited College of Theology Programs
GCU is an institutionally accredited university — accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1968. Accreditation is a reflection of the quality of a university’s education, acknowledging that it is offering programs that meet established standards.
At GCU, an institutionally accredited university, we prioritize the quality of our education along with the strength of our faith. When you become a Christian studies student online or on campus, you can benefit from comprehensive curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, communication and other important skills. Examine the foundational principles of faith and philosophical questions about the nature of religion from within a faith-based learning community that champions your progress.
Bachelor’s in Christian Studies: Philosophy Emphasis FAQs
Explore the following frequently asked questions and answers as you reflect upon your choice of degree program and intended career pathway.
Philosophy provides an avenue for thinking about major issues in life. These issues, such as ethics, existence and meaning might seem abstract, but they can have concrete implications. For example, a philosopher might reflect upon questions like, How should a society decide what is fair and what is just?1 Christian philosophy reflects upon these issues and questions from the Christian perspective.
Just as philosophy can consider questions that have practical implications for everyday life, Christian philosophy can do so, as well. It can guide you in considering how Christ wants people to live their lives. Developing a deeper understanding of philosophy from the Christian perspective may also allow you to deepen your own convictions by reflecting upon the nature of faith itself.2
A Christian philosopher is a deep thinker who explores life’s many questions through a Christian lens. There have been many examples of them through the ages, such as Augustine and Aquinas.3 Today, these philosophers can continue to explore questions, such as, What is the meaning of virtue? and How can a person determine right from wrong?
If you feel called to embrace higher education that introduces you to biblical truths and explores Christian philosophy, then GCU may be the right choice for you. Fill out the form on this page to learn more about this Christian studies degree.
1 The Philosophy Foundation. (n.d.). What is philosophy? The Philosophy Foundation. Retrieved Oct. 4, 2023.
2 All About Worldview. (n.d.). Christian philosophy. All About Worldview. Retrieved Oct. 4, 2023.
3 Cyr, T. W. (2020, January 12). Why (and how) Christians should study philosophy. The Gospel Coalition. Retrieved Oct. 4, 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 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. 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 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 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.
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.
* 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.