How long does it take to earn a BS in Elementary Education with a Christian Education Emphasis?

The bachelor’s in Christian education course of study requires a total of 120 credits for completion. Most of the classes are 15 weeks in length. If you are participating in the online Christian elementary education track, the courses are generally seven weeks long. Bachelor’s degree programs, including education degrees, are designed to be four-year degrees. Some students may require more or less time to graduate, depending on individual factors. Fill out the form on this page to speak to a university counselor to better understand how long it takes to earn your degree.

Bachelor’s in Elementary Education: Christian Education Emphasis

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Teaching

Program

BS in Elementary Education: Christian Education (Licensure)

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

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Overview

Pursue Your Passion for Teaching Jobs in Christian Classrooms

This BS in elementary education: Christian education emphasis degree at Grand Canyon University will teach you not only how to be an elementary teacher, but how to do it from a faith-based perspective. You will be taught the skills needed to guide children through an academic journey infused with a biblical perspective. In addition, you will study child and adolescent development in both theory and practice through class and field learning experiences.

By offering a comprehensive curriculum that combines educational principles with Christian values, this program focuses on teaching you to build a solid foundation that can prepare you to pursue meaningful work in the field of elementary education. It can prepare you with the necessary knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in the lives of students. If creating an environment that fosters academic growth and spiritual development interests you, this degree program may be a good fit for you.

All Elementary Education Emphases

ESL

STEM

Teaching Reading

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an Emphasis in Christian Education

Initial Program – Leads 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: 7 weeks

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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

Focus Your Bachelor’s in Elementary Education on Christian Education at GCU

The bachelor’s in elementary education degree with a Christian education emphasis at GCU will teach you how to deliver Christ-centered educational experiences for students in K-8 classrooms. For this on-campus and online degree, the college uses a Christian worldview to ensure the integrity of its overall programming. The BS in Christian elementary education combines the educational history of the college with our faith-based approach to teach you to step into your own classroom with faith and integrity.

Pursue Your Online Elementary Education BS Degree

This program offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of educational principles while integrating Christian values into your teaching practice. Through GCU’s flexible online format, you can conveniently pursue your degree and study the knowledge and skills taught to make a difference in the lives of young learners.

This Degree is Offered Online

Coursework

Prepare for Licensure by Earning Your Christian Education Emphasis

Future teachers may be able to seek initial licensure for elementary and middle school roles, as well as train in the disciplines of Christian formation. In addition to the general elementary education programming, GCU students will take specialized courses in the biblical, philosophical and spiritual foundations of Christian development. The additional training meets the requirements of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

This degree program, like others from the College of Education leading to teacher certification, may require practicum hours, state examinations, student teaching and institutional recommendations from GCU.

Your journey in this education degree with a Christian education emphasis teaches the following:

Lesson development to engage diverse learners

Assessment practices to support student achievement

Classroom management techniques

Special education laws and practices

Christian ethics as related to educational issues and current events

Biblical-based character development

Christian worldview as a basis for educational practice and philosophy

Other Program Requirements

Learn Christian Teaching Concepts

You will be taught foundational competencies in pedagogy, from learning assessments to lesson development to classroom management. Instructional strategies, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques and Christian values and ethics are at the core of the degree. Courses are led by knowledgeable faculty in areas such as elementary education, Christian studies and faith-based instructional practices. To help future teachers fulfill their dreams, this program may lead to initial licensure in the field of elementary education.

Serve Christ in Schools

"I’m so passionate about our mission to support, connect and protect Christian educators so that they can serve as thriving ambassadors for Christ in our schools."

- Michelle Keso , Associate Adjunct Professor, College of Education

Careers

BS in Elementary Education: Christian Education Emphasis Career Paths

Teaching jobs in kindergarten and elementary schools, including Christian education institutions, are on the rise.¹ Many Christian schools are looking for people with Christian elementary education experience to meet those growing needs.²

After graduating with a BS in elementary education: Christian education emphasis, you have the option to position yourself to pursue a career as an elementary school teacher that can align with your passion for teaching and your Christian faith.

Christian educators can work in a variety of environments. These might include school settings as well as locations hosting private educational programs. Some of these environments may require affiliation with specific Christian denominations or beliefs in specific biblical teachings.

After graduating, you can position yourself to find work in the following industries:

Public elementary and middle schools
Private, Christian elementary and middle schools
Churches
Faith-based education centers
Social service agencies
Christian nonprofit agencies

Accreditation

GCU Offers Accredited Education Programs

This program has received full accreditation from Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), acknowledging its commitment to preparing you to become an effective educator who continuously develops professionally. This accreditation confirms its dedication and capability to uphold high-quality standards.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Deciding upon a career path and a relevant degree program is a significant undertaking. Take the time to research your options thoroughly. You may find the following frequently asked questions and answers helpful as you make your decision.

While the Bible does not provide explicit guidance on formal education systems or curriculum, it emphasizes the value of passing on knowledge, wisdom and guidance to future generations. For example, Proverbs 16:16 instructs us that wisdom and understanding are more important than material possessions. Similarly, John 8:32 states, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

This emphasis can have many benefits, such as fostering an environment that can encourage character development, ethical decision-making and a strong sense of community. Additionally, students in this program may have opportunities to explore faith-based teaching methods and incorporate biblical principles into their instructional practices. With a bachelor’s in elementary education with a Christian education emphasis, you will be taught the skills and tools necessary that can help prepare you to pursue Christian teaching jobs at private schools that value God’s Word. This opportunity can provide you with the potential to help guide children in learning not only key academic topics such as math and English, but also scriptural topics.

The Christian education degree program strives to teach you how to apply evidence-based practices in the classroom, such as learning assessments and lesson development for diverse learners. It also teaches you about crucial topics such as special education laws and practices. Throughout all that, you will be taught biblical principles and the Christian worldview will remain top of mind.

The bachelor’s in elementary education with a Christian education emphasis strives to deliver a comprehensive education that teaches you to develop core competencies in the subject area. It’s difficult to characterize any given degree program as “hard” or “easy” because every student may have a unique experience with it. While the program may present challenges and rigorous coursework, it also offers valuable learning experiences and opportunities for personal an professional growth.

Courses

Course List

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major80 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 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.

Required General Education Courses

HIS-144

4 Total Credits

MAT-150

4 Total Credits

Core Courses

ELM-201

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates survey how children and early adolescents grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas. Teacher candidates explore the implications of growth and development for designing and implementing appropriate and challenging learning experiences. This survey of the theories and research related to how children and young adolescents grow and learn allows teacher candidates to build foundational knowledge for constructing learning experiences that take into consideration students' developmental levels, prior experiences, interests, and culture. Upon completion of this course, teacher candidates will have reflected on personal values and biases and established professional learning goals that reflect codes of ethics, professional standards practices, and relevant laws and policies related to the field of education. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

ELM-211

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates build foundational knowledge on learning theories to identify and design culturally responsive lessons and a variety of assessments that effectively engage and assess diverse learners. Teacher candidates will apply the major concepts, principles, theories, and research related to the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical development of children and young adolescents to design and modify instruction and a variety of assessments. Focus is placed on strategies that support learners in self-reflection, goal setting, and identifying quality work. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

BIB-100

4 Total Credits

MAT-151

4 Total Credits

SPD-208

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates are introduced to the educational needs of students with mild to moderate disabilities and their families, including the definitions, characteristics, prevalence, causes and educational approaches to these disabilities and disorders. Teacher candidates will identify preventative and responsive practices related to cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional patterns of learning and development for students with mild to moderate disabilities. Emphasis is placed on identifying appropriate times to differentiate, modify, or accommodate to support student learning. Teacher candidates also survey the special education process involving the application of various laws and regulations. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required.

ELM-251

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this writing intensive course, teacher candidates examine how to establish and maintain inclusive and collaborative learning environments that promote positive and safe relationships, active engagement, high expectations, and equity for all students. Teacher candidates focus on expanding students' ability to collaborate and communicate through multiple modes and forms of communication. Practicum/field experience hours: 20. Fingerprint clearance required.

CWV-316

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is an advanced exploration of the Christian worldview that shows how the Christian life provides true identity, meaning, peace, and joy. Students learn how to authentically follow Jesus in a way that will transform their lives through intentional practices and life together in community. Focus is also placed on human value, human dignity, and ethical reasoning in academic studies and careers. Prerequisite: CWV-101, CWV-301, or CWV-106HN.

ELM-316

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates examine how to teach foundational skills to develop proficient readers with the capacity to comprehend texts across a range of texts and disciplines. Teacher candidates build additional knowledge regarding print concepts, phonological awareness, phonics and word recognition, and fluency to promote early literacy and independent readers. Collaboration with all stakeholders when designing literacy instruction to meet the needs of specific learners is examined. The science surrounding reading instruction is explored and put into practice with this foundational knowledge. Additionally, teacher candidates use a variety of data to reflect on teaching practices, inform instruction, and improve student learning. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.

REA-326

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates develop strategies for literacy intervention and remediation to foster and support student autonomy in the classroom. Teacher candidates build knowledge and skills to analyze and use assessment data when planning literacy supports in all content areas, communicating student progress, promoting self-directed learning, and empowering students to set goals for their own learning outcomes. Language and literacy development is examined to inform intervention and remediation strategies and practices that support readers of varying ages and ability levels, including students with dyslexia and other reading disabilities. Emphasis is placed on identifying the strengths and needs of individuals when planning instruction and providing descriptive and timely feedback on student progress. Practicum/field experience hours: 20. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.

HTH-330

4 Total Credits

GOV-260

1 Total Credits

ESL-440N

3 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, teacher candidates examine the fundamentals of the legal, historical, and educational foundations of Structured English Immersion (SEI) and other instructional programs and approaches for teaching English learners. Theoretical principles of language acquisition and the role of culture in learning are examined. Methods of assessment are identified and analyzed. Teacher candidates identify strategies to promote English language development and improve student achievement as they plan, deliver, and evaluate standards-based instruction for English learners. Practicum/field experience hours: 15. Fingerprint clearance required.

ELM-455

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates will build an evidence-based foundation for teaching science standards including research on the ways students learn science effectively through creating real-world connections that motivate students, promote cross-curricular skills and inquiry, and extend learning locally and globally. Teacher candidates will examine and implement inquiry-based instructional strategies for teaching science lessons about physical science, earth and space science, life science, and health that integrate the science standards and practices. Emphasis is placed on collaboration and digital literacy to promote learner development, achievement, and well-being. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.

ELM-465

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates examine a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students to develop a conceptual understanding of the mathematics standards and procedures that define elementary and middle school mathematics including: number sense, place value, basic operations, fractions and decimals, algebra concepts, measurement, and proportions. From this foundational knowledge, candidates select, adapt, and implement research-based methods, instructional strategies, and interventions to purposefully engage learners in using creative and critical-thinking skills and to ensure all students have an equitable learning experience in mathematics. Teacher candidates explore collaboration to promote a mathematical mindset that establishes a positive and supportive learning environment and nurtures learner growth and development. Practicum/field experience hours: 20. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.

MIN-320

4 Total 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 or BIB-100.

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.

ELM-475

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates will build foundational knowledge on how to use concepts from reading, language, and child development to teach and assess reading, writing, speaking, viewing, listening, and thinking skills using differentiated and standards-based instruction. From this foundational knowledge, teacher candidates will create opportunities for students to practice academic language and literacy across subject areas. Teacher candidates select, adapt, and implement research-based methods, instructional strategies, culturally responsive teaching, and inclusive practices to individualize meaningful and challenging learning for students, with an emphasis on literacy. Emphasis is placed on using a variety of data to monitor learner needs, reflect on student learning, and guide future instruction. Practicum/field experience hours: 25. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisite: ELM-316.

ELM-485

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates will examine a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students to independently and collaboratively develop a deep understanding of the major concepts and modes of inquiry from the study of social studies. Teacher candidates will build foundational knowledge on promoting elementary students' abilities to critically analyze and make informed decisions that consider multiple perspectives as citizens of a culturally diverse local and global society. Teacher candidates will integrate the performing and visual arts as primary media for communication, creativity, and engagement among elementary students. Additionally, advocacy for students, families, schools, and the community to strengthen the learning environment, promote student success, and demonstrate leadership is explored. Practicum/field experience hours: None. Fingerprint clearance not required. Prerequisite: ELM-211.

EDU-456

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the philosophy, theory, and practice of teaching in Christian schools. A basic analysis of educational philosophies within the framework of a Christian worldview is central to the course. Candidates construct a personal and guiding philosophy of Christian education incorporating biblical principles, and develop lesson plans using biblical integration and perspectives. Focus is placed on demonstrating respectful engagement with diverse students and families while teaching through a Christian worldview. Practicum/field experience hours: 20. Fingerprint clearance required.

ELM-490

8 Total Credits

Course Description

Teacher candidates are engaged in the student teaching experience that includes practical classroom experiences, research, analysis, and teaching to support the creation of a Student Teaching Performance of Evaluation (STEP).Teacher candidates are engaged in the student teaching experience that includes practical classroom experiences, research, analysis, and teaching to develop a Student Teaching Evaluation of Performance (STEP). The teacher candidate will have a GCU course instructor, a GCU faculty supervisor, and be placed in an approved school with a certified cooperating teacher/mentor. Fingerprint clearance required. Prerequisites: Successful completion of all courses in POS and content area; a 2.8 GPA; successful completion of NES or your state’s mandated content area exams; and approval and placement by the College of Education Office of Clinical Practice. All paperwork for student teaching must be submitted by the due date the semester prior to student teaching.

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

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Start Your Journey Today

Work toward your dream of becoming a teacher informed by biblical principles and a Christian worldview. Apply today for enrollment in GCU’s College of Education for the Christian elementary education pathway.

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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 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is based on September 2021, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers, retrieved on June 27, 2023.

²Best Accredited Colleges (2022, April 4). Christian Education: Jobs & Salary. Retrieved on July 5, 2023.