Bachelor of Science (BS) in Educational Studies Degree

Start your GCU
journey today.

Step 1: Educational Interests

This helps us connect you with the right enrollment counselor to help you through the process.

Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Teaching

Program

BS in Educational Studies (Non-Licensure)

Do you work for a school district?

Make a selection

Current Education Level

Make a selection

Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

Find Your Purpose

Start your GCU journey today.

Request Info

Overview

Work Toward Shaping the Future of Education

The field of education plays a pivotal role in fostering positive changes in communities and society by helping educators prepare young learners for a productive and impactful future. The Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies degree offered by Grand Canyon University is designed to empower you to work toward a brighter future by influencing educational policies, laws, programs and curricula.

When completing this educational studies degree program from the College of Education, you will be expected to critically examine and analyze pedagogical theories, teaching practices, education laws and learning environments. While this program does not lead to teaching licensure, it does teach an invaluable foundation of knowledge surrounding the education profession.

Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies

Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure

Offered By

College of Education

Class Settings

Campus

Online

Tuition Rate

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

Online: $460 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 8 weeks

[]

Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Transform Education With an Educational Studies Major

GCU seeks to graduate students with a firm foundational education and the ability to thoughtfully reflect and critically think about the world around them. This comprehensive curriculum guides you in analyzing ethical dilemmas in the educational field through the lens of the Christian perspective. There is a strong emphasis on servant leadership.

This degree program does not lead to initial teacher licensure. You might find this program more conducive to transfer credits compared to traditional teaching licensure programs. We encourage you to reach out to a university counselor to explore your options.

Students looking to further develop their knowledge base and enhance their career opportunities may consider pursuing graduate certificates or graduate degrees in educational studies.

Coursework

Examine the Educational Studies Program

In this program, you will be expected to examine relevant and timely topics in educational studies through an interdisciplinary lens.

You will be taught a variety of competencies, including:

Best practices in curriculum development
Practical applications of pedagogical concepts
Effective strategies for classroom engagement
Methods of student assessment and evaluation

Explore Teaching Practices for Alternative Learning Environments

Young learners need opportunities to achieve their full potential and pursue their ambitions within a supportive environment. An alternative learning environment should provide academic enrichment and whole-child support.

In this program, educational studies majors are expected to develop a firm grasp on the following core areas to develop a well-rounded perspective on teaching practices in alternative learning environments:

Educational psychology
Early childhood and adolescent literacy
Diversity in the classroom
Instructional technology
Communications
Classroom management
Leadership planning
Legal compliance

At the end of the program, you will complete a practicum/field experience in a nontraditional school setting, during which you have opportunities to gain practical, hands-on knowledge of how to integrate ethical values and servant leadership into the learning environment.

Careers

Educational Studies Career Paths for Graduates

This BS in Educational Studies is a multidisciplinary program with the goal of preparing you to pursue a variety of careers across a diverse range of settings. The foundational skills you will be taught during your coursework may translate to various professions.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates job growth for social and community service managers to increase by about 9% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average, accounting for an estimated increase of 16,200 jobs in the field.¹

Careers related to this degree may include:

Social service manager or specialist

Community service manager or specialist

Government program eligibility interviewer

16,200

Estimated new jobs for social and community service managers from 2022 to 2032¹

Accreditation

Earn Your Bachelor’s From an Institutionally Accredited University

Future professionals in the education field need thorough academic preparation designed to prepare them for opportunities that allow them to make a positive difference in the lives of young learners. GCU is proud to be an institutionally accredited university — a designation that reflects our commitment to delivering quality education. The Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Education shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.

FAQ

BS in Educational Studies Degree FAQs

As you consider your choice of degree programs and careers, you may find that further research into your options is helpful. GCU has compiled the following frequently asked questions and answers with the goal of helping you to make a more informed decision for your educational future.

Educational studies is a broad field of study that involves exploring the education system in nontraditional settings or alternative learning environments. Education does not take place solely within the public school system; students may also learn within private, online or charter schools, and even within nonprofits, community organizations, museums and other nontraditional settings.³ A bachelor’s in educational studies explores topics ranging from teaching methods to communication to child development and beyond — all aimed at preparing graduates for a future in the education system.

An educational studies program can be valuable for those interested in education roles outside traditional teaching. It covers theory, policy and administration, as well as pedagogy techniques to help you prepare for a career devoted to shaping the lives of children, adolescents and adults alike. If you find enjoyment in learning and helping others better understand the world around them, a bachelor’s degree in education studies may be a good fit for you. Furthermore, social and community service managers had a median annual wage of $77,030 as of May 2023, according to the BLS.⁴

While this degree does not lead to teaching licensure, it enables you to pursue various careers in the educational studies field. An educational study program may also lead to a teaching career in private or charter schools that do not require a teaching license.⁵ You may also choose to pursue a full teaching degree later on in your career, such as a master’s degree that leads to initial teacher licensure.

The skills you will be taught in this degree program are the same for both the online and on-campus programs. No matter what platform you decide to pursue your degree in, the program is designed to help you prepare to pursue a multitude of different professions in the education field. Topics covered in the educational studies degree online and on campus include a vast assortment of practical teaching methods, as well as social sciences, health and theory within educational fields.

This Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies program consists of a curriculum that is meant to challenge you in your studies and prepare you to excel in your professional goals. The difficulty of the educational studies program at GCU can vary depending on individual strengths, study habits and prior experience. It's designed to be rigorous and comprehensive. Additionally, this program includes many of the same courses as programs that lead to teaching licensure, without the requirement of the practicum/field experience, which may make this non-licensure program more appealing to some. GCU is committed to helping you in every step of your journey by providing student support services both in person and online.

Courses

Course List

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major35 credits

Open Elective Credits45-51 credits

Degree Requirements120 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

4 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

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 (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

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.

Core Courses

EDU-330

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this writing-intensive course, teacher candidates will explore multicultural education by engaging in research, communication, and ethical decision-making, focusing on developing educators' skills in creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. Through analysis of evidence and virtuous practice, the course will examine the critical role of educators as advocates for all students, empowering participants to address disparities and promote equitable opportunities for academic success. With a specific focus on the principles of multicultural education, teacher candidates will be encouraged to reflect on the influence of their own worldviews and perceptions. Emphasizing the concept of imago Dei, which sees every individual as made in the image of God, this course aims to foster culturally responsive classrooms that welcome diversity in all forms. Teacher candidates will explore strategies to effectively bridge the gaps between various diversities and academic achievement, to foster human flourishing within the educational sphere. The course blends content with practical application, highlighting the educator's role as an advocate for all students and promoting equitable academic opportunities.

EDU-315

3 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, candidates will identify the value family relationships and the community environment contribute to the classroom environment. Emphasis is placed on building relationships with families, caregivers, and other stakeholders in order to influence children, build productive learning environments, and create a positive culture for schools. Focus is placed on creating an inviting atmosphere for families and caregivers, and an inclusion of community organizations and businesses to support this family connection. Candidates research ways to utilize community resources to empower families and include them in communication, learning, and collaborative opportunities that foster a healthy home and school connection. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

EDU-354

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, candidates identify the developmental milestones of children, prenatal to adolescence. Students examine the progression of these milestones in all areas of development, including psychological, social, emotional, linguistic, cognitive, and physical. Additional focus is placed on typical and atypical child development, and analyzing the effects of environment, trauma, and family dynamics on the development progression. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

REA-305

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates survey types and purposes of literature based on the developmental literacy needs of elementary-aged children. Particular emphasis is dedicated to the various genres that exist within the literature spectrum and how to utilize the different genres, including digital text, to meet specific instructional needs and literacy goals of elementary-aged children. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

REA-366

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates survey a variety of literacy instruction and phonemic practices. Emphasis is placed on the five elements of reading: phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This survey prepares the teacher candidate to plan and evaluate effective reading instruction that optimizes student literacy, including writing development. Effective communication techniques are reviewed and practiced with a variety of audiences teacher candidates may encounter in a classroom. Prerequisite: ELM-211 or enrollment in the BS Educational Studies program.

ELM-462

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates will explore the importance and methodologies for developing innovative science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curricula that integrates all academic areas in a relevant and cohesive manner. In this course, teacher candidates will examine the various aspects of STEM that can be integrated across content areas and disciplines. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

ELM-463

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates, particularly those who intend to teach courses focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), need to be equipped with technological skills in order to meet the demands and expectations of the changing educational environment. In this course, teacher candidates will research current and emerging technologies, examine their use in enhancing teaching and learning, and explore approaches to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to utilize them appropriately. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

COM-451

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course focuses on the communication processes in personal relationships such as romantic relationships, family relationships, and friendships. Through quantitative and qualitative methods and other theoretical perspectives, students in this class examine the expression and interpretation of messages in everyday personal interactions as well as significant relational events. Students also explore communication processes involved in developing, maintaining, and dissolving relationships, how communication impacts partners and their relationships, and how to improve relational quality or individual well-being through communication.

MGT-410

4 Total Credits

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
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

More Resources

Learning Goals

Financial

Calculate My Costs

Tuition & Financing

Scholarships & Grants

Information

Admission

Be the Change in Education

Pursue a bachelor's degree in educational studies to help empower the next generation and transform lives through education.

Apply Now

If you are seeking licensure/certification, please refer to the Accreditation and Compliance/State disclosures link for the specific program of interest’s website for your location and/or employment state licensure requirements, per 34 CFR 668.14(b)32 and 668.43(c).

¹ COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2022 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social and Community Service Managers, retrieved on May 3, 2024.

² Best Education Degrees. (n.d.). What Can I Do with a Bachelor’s in Educational Studies Degree? Retrieved April 29, 2024.

³ Best Education Degrees. (n.d.). What Can I Do with a Bachelor’s in Educational Studies Degree? Retrieved April 29, 2024.

⁴ The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Social and Community Service Managers, as of May 2023, retrieved on May 3, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as social and community service managers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.

⁵ U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). How to Become a Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved April 29, 2024.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Educational Studies Degree

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Educational Studies Degree

Work Toward Shaping the Future of Education

Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies

Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure

Transform Education With an Educational Studies Major

Examine the Educational Studies Program

Explore Teaching Practices for Alternative Learning Environments

Educational Studies Career Paths for Graduates

16,200

Career Setting Options

Earn Your Bachelor’s From an Institutionally Accredited University

BS in Educational Studies Degree FAQs

Course List

Be the Change in Education

Be the Change in Education

Explore Teaching Practices for Alternative Learning Environments

Examine the Educational Studies Program

Educational Studies Career Paths for Graduates

16,200

Course List

Career Setting Options

Earn Your Bachelor’s From an Institutionally Accredited University

BS in Educational Studies Degree FAQs

Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies

Initial Program – Does Not Lead to Initial Teacher Licensure