Would you believe me if I told you that another destination could transform your Christian college experience? Welcome to Arizona, a land of breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant Christian community thriving in the desert sun.
It is possible to study biblical studies, Christian ethics, ministry training, and much more through a wide range of Christian programs and courses. Aside from being committed educators, the faculty and staff are also committed mentors who will walk with you on your spiritual journey.
Throughout the next few sections, we will not only examine the Christian colleges Arizona has to offer but also the Christian organizations and resources available to support you.
List of Christian Colleges in Arizona
Do you want to explore your faith and learn in Arizona? This vibrant state offers a wide range of Christian and religion classes designed to deepen your understanding of Christianity and its impact on the world around you. The opportunity to explore your faith while pursuing your academic studies is exciting.
Let’s a look at some of the colleges in Arizona that offer courses related to Christian and religion:
Grand Canyon University (Phoenix, Arizona)
| Tuition | $21,176 – $32,100 |
| Graduation Rate | 47% |
| Acceptance Rate | 83% |
| Accreditations | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Religious Affiliations | Non-denominational Christian |
| Church Affiliations | N/A |
| ACT Range | 18 – 23 |
Admission Requirements
With regards to admissions, you can find more information about the process and requirements by visiting the following website: https://www.gcu.edu/admissions.
Courses Offered
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Are you passionate about pastoral leadership? The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry at Grand Canyon University provides a solid foundation for those seeking vocational ministry careers. Particularly, the Barnabas Pastoral Program is available at GCU if you are currently studying Christian Ministry and hope to become a pastor. You can take this program from undergraduate to Master of Divinity in just five years, and you’ll even be able to apply for a fifth-year full-tuition scholarship. To learn more about this exciting opportunity, contact a representative today.
In order to complete the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry program, you must complete 120 credits, which are delivered on campus and last 15 weeks. In addition, GCU recognizes the value of previous academic achievements and accepts up to 90 transfer credits, but only 84 of those credits must be at the lower division.
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies Degree
This BA in Christian Studies degree program is a contemporary approach to ministry education, administered by the College of Theology. It focuses on the development of Christian character and deals with modern ethical dilemmas, while introducing students to contemporary theories of communication and organizational leadership.
You have to get 120 credits to get a Bachelor’s in Christian Studies. If you’re doing it on campus, you’ll have classes for 15 weeks. Grand Canyon University also accepts up to 90 transfer credits because they recognize the value of your previous academic achievements. But only 84 of these credits can be at the lower division. Upon fulfilling all the degree requirements, you’ll be awarded a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies, proving you’re well-rounded and ready for leadership in church and ministry.
Arizona Christian University (Glendale, Arizona)
| Tuition | $31,546 – $49,424 |
| Graduation Rate | 53% |
| Acceptance Rate | 76% |
| Accreditations | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Religious Affiliations | Non-denominational, Evangelical Christian |
| Church Affiliations | N/A |
| ACT Range | 18 – 25 |
Admission Requirements
To explore admissions information, requirements, and procedures for this institution, visit the following website: https://www.arizonachristian.edu/admissions/.
Courses Offered
Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies
Through foundational courses in the Old and New Testament, students gain a solid understanding of the scriptures, allowing them to construct well-reasoned theological principles and personal applications. As part of the program, students have the opportunity to explore other viewpoints, religions, and contemporary issues as well. Despite being conservative evangelical Christians, all faculty members believe it is important to expose students to diverse perspectives so that they are prepared for the realities of modern life. 30 credits are required for this program, including 8 credits of Elementary Greek and 3 credits of Upper Division Bible electives.
Through its partnership with Dallas Theological Seminary, Arizona Christian University offers ministry-minded students the chance to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in as little as five years. The option of dual credit and advanced standing allows students to earn both degrees more efficiently and at a lower cost per year.
Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries
If you’re passionate about serving in your local church or church-related ministries, then this major is for you. By integrating philosophical and theological principles of ministry, as well as practical skills for real-world application, this major provides a strong foundation.
With the Christian Ministries major, you get to choose between a number of minors, like business, behavioral health, or music, so you can broaden your knowledge and skills in complementary areas. To fulfill their program requirements, students without minors can choose from a variety of professional courses. There are 30 credits in the Christian Ministries major, including 15 credits in Biblical and Theological Studies and 8 credits in science.
Resources and Christian Organizations in Arizona
Christian college students in Arizona seek Christian college communities that nurture their faith and embrace their needs. The state of Arizona is fortunate to have numerous religious organizations and resources dedicated to assisting Christian college students to achieve academic success and spiritual growth.
Chi Alpha: Dedicated to establishing chapters on college and university campuses, Chi Alpha has a strong presence in both the United States and around the world. In addition to fostering deep connections with peers, it also fosters an inclusive environment where students can explore their faith in depth.
“Life Groups” and “Core Groups” are among Chi Alpha’s primary objectives, along with discipleship and mentoring. Within these close-knit communities, students can engage in meaningful Bible studies, prayer sessions, enriching discussions, and other activities that encourage spiritual growth.
Cru: As a nonprofit devoted to enriching college students’ journey, Cru provides captivating Bible studies and transformative resources. With its mission to bring the Scriptures to life, Cru offers devotionals that ignite passion and devotion among students.
Besides helping students grow as individuals, Cru wants to help them make a difference in their communities and colleges too. In order to demonstrate Christ’s love in practical and tangible ways, Cru equips Christian students with a lot of resources.
Leadership, communication skills, faith strengthening, and personal growth are among Cru’s initiatives. Due to the organization’s focus on outreach and community service, students are encouraged to do service projects, evangelize, and do other things to make a difference in the world.
LifeWay: You’ll be able to integrate your faith into your academic pursuits, personal growth, and relationships with Lifeway’s materials. Lifeway gives college students relevant guidance that addresses their unique challenges with resources tailored to their needs.
Lifeway offers biblical wisdom, practical insights, and thoughtful perspectives to address the most common issues and questions students encounter in college. In addition to your education, Lifeway resources can help you navigate relationships and ethical decisions, understand the Bible, and get closer to God.
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship: As part of their mission, InterVarsity emphasizes discipleship and leadership development. They train and mentor students to be Christ-centered leaders on and off campus. Small groups, conferences, and retreats can help students develop leadership skills and strengthen their relationship with God.
Besides encouraging students to grow spiritually and empower themselves, InterVarsity also helps them get involved in the world and promotes justice, compassion, and Christian values. When you get involved in local and global initiatives, InterVarsity students want to make a lasting and positive impact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Arizona
Can students from non-Christian backgrounds attend Christian colleges in Arizona?
Various faiths and backgrounds are welcome at Christian colleges in Arizona. The institutions we mentioned in this guide have a Christian foundation and integrate faith into academics, but they also value diversity and provide a supportive environment for students to explore their own beliefs.
Why should Christian colleges in Arizona be preferred over secular colleges?
As a Christian college in Arizona, you can get a distinctive educational experience in combination with rigorous academics. As a result of small class sizes, personal attention from faculty, and opportunities for spiritual growth and service, their students find a sense of purpose and a supportive network in their studies.
Is attending a Christian college in Arizona going to affect my career prospects?
Attending a Christian college in Arizona will give you plenty of career options. It is important for these institutions to ensure students are grounded in strong moral and ethical principles that can enhance their impact in their chosen fields in addition to offering quality academic programs.
Does Arizona have a strict religious requirement for admission to Christian colleges?
There are no strict religious requirements at most Christian colleges in Arizona, but admission policies differ. Even though they value faith and ask for a statement of faith, they assess applicants holistically, including academics, extracurricular activities, character, and growth.
How comfortable and inclusive is Arizona’s Christian college environment for students of different faiths?
Their Christian roots aside, these colleges encourage open dialogue, respect for diverse beliefs, and opportunities for interfaith engagement, facilitating a sense of community and belonging for students from diverse backgrounds.