BA in Christian Studies Degree: Philosophy Emphasis

BA in Christian Studies Degree: Philosophy Emphasis
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Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
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).
Deepen your appreciation for Christian doctrine, Christian history and biblical truths by earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Christian Studies with an Emphasis in Philosophy. Grand Canyon University is pleased to offer a theological education to students who wish to faithfully serve others within the Christian church and other Christian organizations. You will be introduced to theological, religious and philosophical knowledge while preparing to engage the public as an ethical servant leader.
GCU is an institutionally accredited university — accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. Accreditation is a reflection of the quality of a university’s education, acknowledging that it is offering programs that meet established standards.
At GCU, we prioritize the quality of our education along with the strength of our faith. When you become a Christian studies student online or on campus, you can benefit from comprehensive curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, communication and other important skills. Examine the foundational principles of faith and philosophical questions about the nature of religion from within a faith-based learning community that champions your progress.
A degree in Christian studies with an emphasis in philosophy is a versatile career credential that may provide a springboard for you to pursue meaningful work within the ministry. This degree strives to prepare you to engage others in thoughtful discussions of biblical truths, theology and philosophy. Christian philosophy competencies may prepare you to pursue ministerial roles within the church and other Christian organizations, such as in the role of a religious activities and education director, or postsecondary philosophy and religion teacher.
GCU seeks to graduate future Christian leaders who are capable of spreading the love of God in a diverse range of ministerial contexts. Some students may choose to further enhance their career qualifications by pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree through the Grand Canyon Theological Seminary.
Personal faith formation and professional development are both key objectives for this bachelor’s degree in Christian studies. You can expect to receive support from peers and thoughtful guidance from accomplished instructors as you work to develop your Christian character. As a Christian university, GCU strives to prepare you to share Christian doctrines.
You will be taught to develop critical thinking skills during opportunities to analyze and assess ideas and ethical systems. Core curriculum areas include epistemology and metaphysics, as well as the ethical and philosophical roots of religion. Christian philosophy students are required to practice expressing biblical truths to others in effective written and oral communication. This Christian studies degree prioritizes Christian ethics, personal morality and the exploration of contemporary issues that are relevant to the church’s public witness.
This Christian studies degree with a philosophy emphasis is offered by GCU’s College of Theology. As a Christian philosophy student, you will have the opportunity to delve deeply into the Christian worldview and its philosophical basis as you nurture your ability to minister to others with wisdom and sensitivity.
All students at GCU are encouraged to become effective communicators, ethical decision-makers and inspiring servant leaders who hold fast to the Christian worldview as they explore a diverse range of perspectives and visions. Early on in your Christian philosophy studies, you will be expected to affirm the Doctrinal Statement and the College of Theology Covenant.
GCU’s online learning platform can provide greater accessibility to your coursework, which may offer more convenience and flexibility as you pursue higher education. As an online student, you can enjoy interactions with peers and instructors, and the same quality of instruction as our on-campus students.
In addition to the digital format, this degree in Christian studies is available via in-person classes for those who seek a traditional on-campus college experience. As an on-campus student, you will be immersed within our faith-based campus environment, which offers numerous and ongoing opportunities to reaffirm your faith through worship activities, peer groups and community service initiatives.
Core Christian philosophy curriculum areas for this degree in Christian studies include the following:
The bachelor’s degree in Christian studies with a philosophy emphasis concludes with an in-depth exploration of the fundamental issues in religion and religious experiences. You will explore arguments for the existence and nature of God.
Explore the following frequently asked questions and answers as you reflect upon your choice of degree program and intended career pathway.
Philosophy provides an avenue for thinking about major issues in life. These issues, such as ethics, existence and meaning might seem abstract, but they can have concrete implications. For example, a philosopher might reflect upon questions like, How should a society decide what is fair and what is just?1 Christian philosophy reflects upon these issues and questions from the Christian perspective.
Just as philosophy can consider questions that have practical implications for everyday life, Christian philosophy can do so, as well. It can guide you in considering how Christ wants people to live their lives. Developing a deeper understanding of philosophy from the Christian perspective may also allow you to deepen your own convictions by reflecting upon the nature of faith itself.2
A Christian philosopher is a deep thinker who explores life’s many questions through a Christian lens. There have been many examples of them through the ages, such as Augustine and Aquinas.3 Today, these philosophers can continue to explore questions, such as, What is the meaning of virtue? and How can a person determine right from wrong?
1The Philosophy Foundation. (n.d.). What is Philosophy? The Philosophy Foundation. Retrieved Oct. 4, 2023.
2All About Worldview. (n.d.). Christian Philosophy. All About Worldview. Retrieved Oct. 4, 2023.
3Cyr, T. W. (2020, January 12). Why (and How) Christian Should Study Philosophy. The Gospel Coalition. Retrieved Oct. 4, 2023.
If you feel called to embrace higher education that introduces you to biblical truths and explores Christian philosophy, then GCU may be the right choice for you. Fill out the form on this page to learn more about this Christian studies degree.