Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Christian Studies - Youth Ministry

Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Youth Ministry

Offered By: College of Theology

What Is Youth Ministry?

Youth ministry engages young people in nurturing a relationship with God. The spiritual development of youths can empower them to achieve their true potential in life, and to discover what God has called upon them to do. You can combine your passion with purpose by applying for the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Youth Ministry degree program at Grand Canyon University.

This online BA in Christian studies and youth ministry degree is offered by the College of Theology. Students work through a gospel-based curriculum taught by diverse faculty. The program guides students in acquiring a solid framework of knowledge in Christian doctrine, theology, biblical truths and Christian history. Graduates have the necessary communication, leadership and interpersonal skills to inspire and engage young people of diverse backgrounds.

Earn an Online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies - Youth Ministry Degree at GCU

GCU is a modern, inclusive campus that invites students to grow spiritually, personally and professionally within our welcoming learning community. To accommodate the needs of our modern and diverse student body, GCU is pleased to offer online classes. Most online courses are seven weeks in length. This online youth ministry degree requires a total of 120 credits for completion.

During your studies, you will explore the major developments of Christianity throughout its history and reflect upon the other major religions of the world. You will sharpen your analytical skills and practice communicating the message of God to a variety of audiences, with a focus on youths.

Understand Modern Influences on Christianity

This Bachelor of Arts in Christian studies and youth ministry degree program begins with an intensive exploration of Christian doctrine. Students will explore the Old and New Testaments. The program examines theological methodologies and the history of theology. In youth ministry emphasis courses such as Adolescent Development and Faith Formation, students will gain a thorough understanding of the following topic areas:

  • The developmental life stage of adolescence, with an emphasis on faith formation and spiritual needs
  • The biblical, educational, theological and philosophical foundations of youth ministry
  • The philosophy and principles for youth ministry programming, including teaching and outreach strategies, leadership development, budgeting and evaluation

In addition, students examine the common issues and problems of adolescence, including disorder identification, intervention and prevention, as well as referral strategies. Future youth ministers develop a firm grasp on “pastoral first aid” for troubled or at-risk adolescents.

Prepare to Serve Young People in the Christian Studies - Youth Ministry BA Program

Young people are the future of the Christian Church. GCU graduates with a Christian studies BA in youth ministry are fully prepared to guide youths in nurturing their relationship with Jesus Christ. There are many potential applications for the communication, leadership and organizational skills you will learn in this Christian studies program. Some possible roles that may be related to this degree include the following:

  • Youth minister
  • Private middle or high school teacher
  • Nonprofit volunteer coordinator
  • Religious activities director
  • Youth outreach worker

Churches, para-church organizations and humanitarian organizations are just a few of the possible settings in which graduates may pursue work. Some graduates may elect to expand their career qualifications by pursuing an advanced degree in Christian studies. The Grand Canyon Theological Seminary is an associate member of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).

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TOTAL CREDITS & COURSE LENGTH:
Total Credits: 120
Campus: 15 weeks
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Online: 7 weeks
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TRANSFER CREDITS:
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
TUITION RATE:
Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]
Online: $410 per credit [More Info]

Course List

General Education Requirements:
34-40 credits
Major:
64 credits
Open Elective Credits:
16-22 credits
Degree Requirements:
120 credits

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 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 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 explores the biblical, educational, theological, and philosophical foundations of youth ministry. Students assess their personal gifts and personalities in relation to ministry.

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 the developmental life stage of adolescence and the formation of faith. An emphasis is placed on the adolescent's family in its cultural setting and the developmental and spiritual needs of family members. Prerequisite: YMN-305.

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 examines skills and practices of ministry to adolescents at risk. Students explore a philosophy of pastoral care from a practical theology and biblical perspective. The course addresses issues and problems that grow out of the developmental process, disorders that begin during or are unique to adolescence, as well as intervention, prevention, and referral strategies. The course serves as “pastoral first aid” where students will learn basic helping skills. Prerequisite: YMN-305.

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 is an intensive examination of the philosophy and principles for youth ministry programming, including ministry purpose and goals, leadership development, teaching strategies, outreach strategies, budgeting, and evaluation. Prerequisite: YMN-305.

Locations

GCU Campus Student


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.

GCU Online Student


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.

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