BA in Christian Studies: Youth Ministry Emphasis

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Overview

Relate the Gospel to Youths and Transform Teens

Prepare to inspire children and adolescents and encourage them to grow closer to God. The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Youth Ministry degree program at Grand Canyon University is designed to provide an avenue for a future in faith-based work. 

Offered by the College of Theology, this Christian studies degree program guides you in acquiring a solid framework of knowledge in Christian doctrine, theology, biblical truths and Christian history. Graduates are expected to have the necessary communication, leadership and interpersonal skills to inspire and engage young people of diverse backgrounds. 

Man with two female teens reading the bible outside on a bench
Why GCU

Earn Your Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies at GCU

GCU is a modern, inclusive campus that invites students to grow spiritually, personally and professionally within our welcoming learning community. As you earn your Christian studies degree, you’ll be encouraged to reflect upon the application of biblical principles to modern situations and settings. Our youth ministry studies program is designed to help you become a positive role model for the youngest members of the church. Within our private Christian campus, you’ll have opportunities to work toward becoming a socially responsible, productive member of society who models a Christ-like character.

Woman doing online coursework on a laptop with a bible on the table

Pursue This Emphasis in Youth Ministry Online

To accommodate the needs of our modern and diverse student body, GCU is pleased to offer classes in Christian studies and youth ministry online. As a member of our online learning community, you’ll be able to take classes and access your Christian youth ministry coursework from almost anywhere. The added convenience and flexibility of our online learning modality are intended to make higher education more accessible. You’ll receive the same quality of education as our on-campus students and you’ll be able to interact with peers and instructors on class discussion forums.

Coursework

Reflect Upon Key Influences Shaping Modern Christianity

Your Christian studies journey begins with an intensive exploration of Christian doctrine. You will work through coursework on the Old and New Testaments. The program examines theological methodologies and the history of theology. During your studies, you will explore the major developments of Christianity throughout its history and reflect upon the other major religions of the world. 

The degree is designed to teach 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 preaching to youths, including teaching and outreach strategies, leadership development, budgeting and evaluation

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

Explore Ministry Skills Needed for Teen Outreach

As a Christian studies student, you will sharpen your analytical skills and practice communicating the message of God to a variety of audiences, with a focus on youths. Knowledgeable faculty members will guide you in preparing for a life of service to the church. Graduates are expected to be confident ministers of God’s Word, capable of spreading the message of love and compassion to all.

Other skills taught in this degree program include:

Pastoral care skills appropriate to varying developmental stages

Preaching, teaching, small group discussion and interpersonal communication skills

Personal morality against the context of various contemporary issues

Development of a Christ-like character, including spiritual discipline, virtues and habits

All Christian Studies Programs

In addition to this youth ministry emphasis, our students can choose from a range of other emphasis programs within Christian studies. 

These include:

Careers

Prepare for a Career Serving the Next Generation

Our Christian studies graduates are expected to be 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 be taught in this Christian studies program. 

Churches, parachurch organizations and humanitarian organizations are just a few of the possible settings in which graduates may pursue work.1 Some graduates may potentially 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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Accreditation

Earn Your Degree From an Accredited University

GCU is an institutionally accredited university, having been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Theology shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

As you reflect upon your future path serving Christ, you may have some questions. Read through some frequently asked questions and answers to gain insight during your decision-making process.

Three students sitting outside on a blanket as they discuss the bible

Inspire Faith and Transform Lives

Become a mentor in faith with a Christian studies degree focused on youth ministry.

Apply Now
  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, May). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023. Retrieved Nov. 4, 2024.
  2. BestAccreditedColleges. (n.d.). Be a Youth Pastor: Step-by-Step Career Guide. Retrieved Nov. 4, 2024.

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