Program Details

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

Offered By: College of Theology

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Total Program Credits & Course Length:

Total Program Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 7 weeks [ More Info ]

Transfer Credits:

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Program Tuition Rate:

Campus: $8,250 per semester. [ More Info ]

Online: $395 per credit. [ More Info ]

As part of our commitment to keeping tuition rates competitive, GCU has kept campus tuition costs frozen since 2009. While the cost per credits are listed below, the average campus student pays only $8,600 per year* in tuition after institutional scholarships and grants. Speak with your university counselor for more information about estimating the costs of attending GCU.

Tuition	Credits	2018-19
Traditional Undergraduate	1-11	$687.50 per credit
Traditional Undergraduate	12-18 (block tuition)	$8,250 per semester
Traditional Undergraduate	19+ (semester rate +)	$8,250 + $687.50 per credit above 18 credits
Summer Traditional Undergraduate (Except pre-licensure nursing cohorts)*		$310 per credit

*Tuition rates for all courses beginning July 1, 2018

*No in-state/out-of-state rates

*Traditional campus undergraduate students taking courses in the online format will be charged the regular tuition rates.

*Traditional campus undergraduate students are required to take a minimum of nine (9) credits in the traditional campus format.

It is the policy of GCU to collect and remit sales, use, excise and/or gross receipts taxes in compliance with state and local taxing jurisdiction regulations, which require the university to remit tax where applicable. Regulations vary by student location. Payment of tax is ultimately the student's financial responsibility to the university regardless of financing arrangements. Per Hawaii requirements: It is hereby stated that students residing in the State of Hawaii will be charged Hawaii General Excise Tax on all transactions. Students living in the District of Oahu will be charged 4.712 percent. Students residing in other Hawaii districts will be charged 4.1666 percent.

*Fees subject to change.

GCU's non-traditional tuition rates are for students who are interested in pursuing an online degree program or taking evening classes. Speak with your university counselor to learn more about your opportunities for scholarships off tuition through GCU's educational alliances or to find out about options for continuing education for teachers.

Undergraduate Tuition	2018-19
Education Programs	$440 per credit
Theology Programs	$395 per credit
Applied Business Analytics / Applied Business Information Systems/ Business Information Systems/ Computer Programming / Information Technology Programs	$449 per credit
Business Administration with an Emphasis in Business Intelligence	$470 per credit
Online and Professional Studies (all programs other than those listed above)	$470 per credit
Active Duty and Active Reserve (online and professional studies)	$250 per credit

Graduate Tuition	2018-19
Education Programs	$530 per credit
Master of Divinity	$340 per credit
IT Programs	$505 per credit
Business Programs (Excludes Business Analytics / Information Systems and Technology Management)	$575 per credit
Nursing Programs	$500 per credit
Advanced Practice Nursing Programs	$670 per credit
Business Analytics / Information Systems and Technology Management Programs	$505 per credit
Online and Professional Studies (all programs other than those listed above)	$515 per credit
Active Duty and Active Reserve (online and professional studies)	$400 per credit
Doctoral Programs (includes DIS-966 through DIS-970)	$650 per credit
Doctoral Programs – Active Duty and Active Reserve (online and professional studies)	$617.50 per credit

Continuing Education (CTE) Tuition	2018-19
Online	$150 per credit

*Fees subject to change.

2018-19

Residence Hall Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $1,350 meal plan.
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
Cypress	Double Occupancy	$4,400 per academic year
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year

Apartment Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $750 meal plan.
North Rim	Double Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
North Rim	Single Occupancy	$6,000 per academic year
Papago Studio (two bedrooms, one bathroom, no kitchen or living room)	Single Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
Papago / Agave / Roadrunner / Diamondback / Encanto (four bedrooms, two bathrooms, with kitchen and living room)	Single Occupancy	$6,100 per academic year

Summer Room Rates
Active student (actively enrolled in at least one course)		$1,200
Working student (on-campus job, but not taking courses)		$1,600

All residents (including all on-campus and remote housing residents) commit to housing reservations as an academic year-long lease (both fall and spring semesters) and are charged for housing by the academic year (both fall and spring semesters).
All housing charges, including room and board, are billed to the student's account.
For payment methods and deadlines contact your university counselor or student services counselor.
All rates include parking (summer only), rent, water, electricity, basic cable and Internet. Rates above DO NOT include tax.

Meal Plans Meal plans for 2017-18 are Dining Dollars only and do not include meal swipes.
Plans	Details	Price
Canyon $750 Dining Dollars	Exclusive to apartment residents or commuter students.	$1,500 per academic year
Canyon $1,350 Dining Dollars	Minimum requirement for residence hall residents.	$2,700 per academic year
Canyon $1,800 Dining Dollars		$3,500 per academic year
Canyon $2,100 Dining Dollars		$4,000 per academic year
Canyon $2,700 Dining Dollars		$5,100 per academic year

*Fees subject to change.

2018-19

Residence Hall Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $1,350 meal plan.
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Triple Occupancy	$3,550 per academic year
Canyon	Double Occupancy	$4,400 per academic year
Prescott / Camelback / Sedona / Chaparral / Saguaro / Ocotillo	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year
The Grove: Acacia / Ironwood / Juniper / Willow	Double Occupancy	$5,000 per academic year

Apartment Rates Students are required to carry at least a Canyon $750 meal plan.
North Rim	Double Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
North Rim	Single Occupancy	$6,000 per academic year
Papago Studio (two bedrooms, one bathroom, no kitchen or living room)	Single Occupancy	$5,500 per academic year
Papago / Agave / Roadrunner / Diamondback / Encanto / Jerome / Cactus (four bedrooms, two bathrooms, with kitchen and living room)	Single Occupancy	$6,100 per academic year

Summer Room Rates
Active student (actively enrolled in at least one course)		$1,200
Working student (on-campus job, but not taking courses)		$1,600

All residents (including all on-campus and remote housing residents) commit to housing reservations as an academic year-long lease (both fall and spring semesters) and are charged for housing by the academic year (both fall and spring semesters).
All housing charges, including room and board, are billed to the student's account.
For payment methods and deadlines contact your university counselor or student services counselor.
All rates include parking (summer only), rent, water, electricity, basic cable and Internet. Rates above DO NOT include tax.

Meal Plans Meal plans for 2018-19 are Dining Dollars only and do not include meal swipes.
Plans	Details	Price
Canyon $250 Dining Dollars	Exclusive to commuter students.	$500 per academic year
Canyon $750 Dining Dollars	Exclusive to apartment residents or commuter students.	$1,500 per academic year
Canyon $1,350 Dining Dollars	Minimum requirement for residence hall residents.	$2,700 per academic year
Canyon $1,800 Dining Dollars		$3,500 per academic year
Canyon $2,100 Dining Dollars		$4,000 per academic year
Canyon $2,700 Dining Dollars		$5,100 per academic year

*Fees subject to change.

Traditional On-Campus Fees

2018-19

Fees indicated are effective for all students enrolling for 2018-19 academic year. Please contact your university counselor with any questions.

Canyon Connect	Undergraduate courses	$95 per class
Registration Deposit	Non-refundable	$50
Student Activity Fee	Traditional undergraduate and graduate campus students (except those in the nursing pre-licensure program)	$275 per semester (excluding summer)
Colter Surface Parking (2018-19)	Green Lot - For campus residents only. Secure parking for student vehicles near or adjacent to campus. Limited spaces are available.	$50
Grove Garage Resident Parking (2018-19)	Red Lot - For Grove residents only. Covered parking for student vehicles near Willow, Acacia, Juniper and Ironwood residence halls.	$150 per academic year
29th Avenue Parking Garage (2018-19)	Black Lot - For campus residents only. Covered parking on the perimeter of campus on floors 2, 3, 4 and 5.	$150 per academic year
Halo Parking Garage (2018-19)	Purple Lot - For commuter students only. Covered parking on the perimeter of campus on floors 2, 3, 4 and 5.	$150 per academic year
Lot D – Formerly Missouri Avenue Surface Parking (2018-19)	Orange Lot - For commuter students only. Secure parking for student vehicles near or adjacent to campus.	$20 per academic year
Housing Application Fee	Traditional undergraduate campus students and non-refundable	$250
Housing Prepayment	Returning residents only and non-refundable	$200
Returned Check Fee	All returned checks	$25
Health Insurance		$2,439 per academic year
Transcript Fee		$5
Graduation Fee		$150
Health Fee		$70 per semester
Health Center Visit Fee		$25
Schedule Change Fee		$25
Late Payment Fee		$25
Global Studies Portfolio Fee		$90
Hospitality Management Premium		$100 per semester
Tennis Management Premium		$250 per semester
Golf Management Premium		$500 per semester
Computer Science, Computer Programming, Engineering and Information Technology Program Premium 2018-19		$800 per semester
Nursing Program Premium 2018-19 (effective summer 2018)	Pre-Licensure program	$1,000 per semester
Worship Arts Premium	Includes minors	$250 per semester
Special Course Fees		Refer to the University Policy Handbook

*Fees subject to change.

Non-Traditional Online and Evening Fees

2018-19

Fees indicated are effective for all students enrolling starting on July 1, 2018, unless otherwise specified.

Canyon Connect	Undergraduate courses	$95
Canyon Connect	Graduate courses	$105
Canyon Connect	Doctoral courses	$115
RN to BSN Program Course Material Fee	5-week courses with an NRS- prefix and HLT-362V	$120 per course
Course Material Fee	NUR-634	Refer to the University Policy Handbook
Learning Management Service Fee	New online and professional studies students	$400
Doctoral Residencies	Including MDiv	$795-$1,195 per Residency
Doctoral Programs	Dissertation continuation - optional zero-credit course	$500
Accordance Bible Software	New MDiv students only	$285
Credential Evaluation (International)	Basic evaluation	$175
Credential Evaluation (International)	Course-by-course evaluation	$250
Returned Check Fee	All returned checks	$25
Transcript Fee		$5
Graduation Fee		$150
Special Course Fees		Refer to the University Policy Handbook

*Fees subject to change.

Overview

Help Young People Walk with the Lord

Graduates of Grand Canyon University's Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Youth Ministry utilize biblical studies as the foundation, and an understanding of theology, philosophy and Christian history as the framework, for communicating Christ to various audiences. The College of Theology offers this program to help you become a servant leader to guide and nurture a congregation – with special focus on communicating with young people – in the Christian faith.

Degree Outcomes

Understand Modern Influences on Christianity

When you earn your youth ministry degree, you study and understand the history of Christianity and the development of Christian doctrine as well as gain a deeper understanding of major contemporary religions of the world.

Skills are formed in how to lead a ministry, including forming strategies, forming goals and developing communication skills. This youth ministry degree program explores how to help youth find Christ in their formative years. There is also a focus on recognizing times of crisis in a young person's life and getting them the appropriate help they may need.

What You Will Learn

Know How Faith Develops in Young Men and Women

In earning your youth ministry degree, you complete a set of specialized courses that prepare you to minister to adolescents in and out of the Christian environment. Topics discussed and studied include:

Understanding the social complexities facing youth today
Knowing the development of adolescents
How faith is formed in young people from internal and external influences
Biblical interpretation
Christian influences worldwide

Career Outcomes

Prepare to Serve Young People

In addition to spiritual formation and exegetical skills essential to Christian studies, you are able to employ communication, leadership and organizational skills necessary for effective ministry. A bachelor's degree in youth ministry is suited for you if you have a passion for serving and would like to help youth develop their relationship with Jesus Christ and to achieve their greatest potential. Those interested in leadership positions in high school programs, para-church organizations and nonprofits may also be interested in this degree.

Program Domains

Course List

The programs offered at Grand Canyon University may vary by content and course length. You are currently viewing the program version available in Arizona. For information about specific course content, credit length and VA approval in your state, please contact a counselor at 1-855-GCU-LOPE or click here to request more information.

General Education Requirements:

34-40 credits

Major:

64 credits

Open Elective Credits:

16-22 credits

Total 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.

Competency: University Foundations Total Credits: 4

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 credits
UNV-303, University Success: 4 credits

Competency: Effective Communication Total Credits: 13-16

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 credits
UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4 credits
ENG-106, English Composition II: 4 credits
COM-263, Elements of Intercultural Communication: 4 credits

Competency: Christian Worldview Total Credits: 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 credits
CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4 credits

Competency: Critical Thinking Total Credits: 3-4

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 credits

Competency: Global Awareness, Perspective and Ethics Total Credits: 10-12

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 credits
INT-244, World Religions: 4 credits
SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4 credits

Program Core Courses

BIB-106: Old Testament Survey Total Credits: 4 credits

Course Description

This course introduces the text of the Old Testament with emphasis on the biblical narrative, genres, major historical periods, and theological themes.

BIB-107: New Testament Survey Total Credits: 4 credits

Course Description

This course introduces the text of the New Testament with emphasis on the biblical narrative, genres, major historical periods, and theological themes.

HTH-201: Christian Theology I Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

BIB-355: Biblical Interpretation and Application Total Credits: 4 credits

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, BIB-106, and BIB-107.

BIB-350: Pentateuch Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

HTH-202: Christian Theology II Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

YMN-305: Philosophy and Theology of Youth Ministry Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

MIN-320: Christian Character Formation Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

INT-310: Christianity in a Global Context Total Credits: 4 credits

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. Prerequisites: HTH-201 and HTH-202.

BIB-360: Gospels and Acts Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

YMN-355: Adolescent Development and Faith Formation Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

HTH-350: Survey of Historical Theology Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

MIN-430: Ministerial Communication Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

YMN-455: Adolescent Issues and Intervention Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

HTH-330: Christian Ethics Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

YMN-350: Leadership and Administration in Youth Ministry Total Credits: 4 credits

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.

Program Locations

Campus

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. New modern classrooms, suite-style residence halls, popular dining options, resort-style swimming pools and a focus on creating a dynamic student life make GCU a top choice for high school graduates and transfer students. Exciting events, well-known guest speakers and Division I athletics round out the traditional student experience. Our welcoming campus community is the perfect place to find your purpose.

Online

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. GCU offers the most experienced leadership in delivering online degree programs. Full-time faculty members and fully trained adjunct instructors, equipped with strong academic backgrounds and practical experience in their fields, support you every step of the way. Designed with the career-oriented professional in mind, our online classes provide an intimate environment that stimulates engaging and challenging discussions. Choose from programs across our distinct colleges, in high-demand employment areas. Classes begin frequently.

* Please note that this list may contain programs that are not presently offered as program availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability of the program.

* The Department of Education defines how an institution must calculate a program's On-Time Completion rate for federal disclosure purposes. The On-Time Completion rate is based on a program's published required number of months to complete all degree requirements as provided in the institution's catalog. Completion statistics are updated every January and are based on the cohort of students who started the program in the same year and then graduated within the published program length.

On-campus program disclosures (48 months) Online and Evening program disclosures (48 months)

Biblical Foundation
- Demonstrate an understanding of the history, literature, and theology of the New Testament.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the history, literature, and theology of the Old Testament.
- Demonstrate an ability to analyze, interpret, and apply the Bible to ministry and life.
Theological and Historical Foundation
- Demonstrate an understanding of historic Christian doctrines.
- Describe the historical development and the traditions of the Christian church.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply Christian theology and historical insight to ministry and life.
- Demonstrate theological methodology that is biblically faithful.
Professional and Spiritual Formation
- Analyze historical and contemporary theory and practice in Christian ministries.
- Identify the principles of Christian ethics as they apply to ministry.
- Examine the foundations of spiritual formation and discipleship.
- Demonstrate skills essential to teaching and preaching ministry, including interpersonal communication.
Contextualization
- Describe the practice of Christianity in various cultures.
- Demonstrate an awareness of the principles for contextualizing Christianity within culturally diverse situations.
Youth Ministry
- Demonstrate an understanding of adolescent development and faith formation.
- Articulate a philosophy of counseling for youth ministry that is rooted in biblical and practical theology.
- Demonstrate an awareness of the role of the youth worker in ministry administration and leadership.
- Articulate a philosophy and theology of youth ministry.

* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Program subject to change.

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

Traditional On-Campus Tuition

Non-Traditional Tuition (Online and Evening Students)

Housing and Meal Costs

2018-19

2018-19

Other Fees

Traditional On-Campus Fees

2018-19

Non-Traditional Online and Evening Fees

2018-19

Overview

Help Young People Walk with the Lord

Degree Outcomes

Understand Modern Influences on Christianity

What You Will Learn

Know How Faith Develops in Young Men and Women

Career Outcomes

Prepare to Serve Young People

Course List

General Education Requirements

Requirements

Course Options

Requirements

Course Options

Requirements

Course Options

Requirements

Course Options

Requirements

Course Options

Program Core Courses

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

Course Description

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Program Locations

Campus

Online

Program Domains