What Is a Christian Theology Graduate Certificate?

Prepare to serve in the ministry in a lay context by earning your theology certificate. The Graduate Certificate of Completion in Christian Theology at Grand Canyon University immerses students in systematic and historical theology. Examine the key doctrines of Christianity in light of their biblical and historical roots. Expand your knowledge of theological matters and acquire the skills necessary to serve in your local church community.

Offered by the College of Theology, this certificate program equips future church leaders with a broad base of religious knowledge. You will examine some of the most prominent theological movements in history, explore historical developments as they pertain to the faith and demonstrate theological reflection skills.

Earn Your Christian Theology Certificate Online

Students who earn a Graduate Certificate of Completion in Christian Theology at GCU will be able to confidently and articulately discuss the core concepts of the Christian worldview. They will also gain an in-depth understanding of key ethical aspects of servant leadership. GCU seeks to graduate students who are skilled and considerate communicators, ethical decision-makers and keen critical thinkers.

With GCU’s flexible learning options, you can continue to work in your current position while expanding your academic qualifications. Earn your graduate certificate in Christian theology online via our interactive and collaborative learning platform. Easily manage your coursework and assignments, and connect with peers and instructors from anywhere in the world. This graduate certificate program requires a total of 18 credits for completion. Most of the online courses are eight weeks in length. Up to 12 transfer credits may be accepted.

The core courses for this program are:

• Introduction to Graduate Studies in the Ministry and Theology
• Systematic Theology I
• Systematic Theology II
• Christian History I
• Christian History II

There is a program emphasis on the major movements in theology and the development of theological understanding throughout the history of Christianity. Students begin by learning the principles of academic research. In Systematic Theology I, students explore God, creation, humanity and sin. They also examine hamartiology, prolegomena and the attributes of God. In Systematic Theology II, students move on to the theological formulation of salvation, the church and the Holy Spirit. They examine the nature of Christ, and the nature and work of the church.

Christian History I takes students from the postapostolic period to the early medieval period (100-1300). Christian History II examines theological movements and church history from the late medieval era to the late modern period (1300-2000), including topics such as the Reformation, Renaissance humanism and late medieval nominalism.

What Can You Do with a Graduate Certificate in Christian Theology?

God has a purpose for you. By earning your graduate level Christian theology certificate, you can prepare to fulfill your true potential as a child of God and a servant of Christ. Upon graduation, you may be qualified to pursue pastoral work in your local ministry, such as by serving as an associate pastor, Bible studies group leader, administrative pastor or ministry director. Some possible settings in which graduates may pursue employment include the following:

• Youth outreach organization
• Hospital pastoral care program
• Hospice care program
• Missionary organization
• Faith-based nonprofit entity

Some occupations may require additional career qualifications. Grand Canyon University offers career-related services on campus.