Key Takeaways:
- Grand Canyon University integrates Christian beliefs into its programs, offering various degrees, including online and evening classes.
- The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers additional accreditations for specific programs.
- Tuition varies by program, and financial aid options include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Grand Canyon University Degrees Available
Grand Canyon University appears in our ranking of the Top PhD in Accounting Online Programs.
Earning a college degree can open many doors and is not just a way for individuals to earn a higher salary. Those who hold a college degree report being more satisfied in their careers and they are less likely to be unemployed than those with just a high school diploma. Grand Canyon University offers several degree options designed to help individuals move into a new career or advance in a current career.
Featured Programs
Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Arts in History that is available on campus, online as well as through evening classes. The program examines the past to make better sense of the present. It is offered through the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, exploring a curriculum that uses a thematic approach rather than a chronological one. Students explore historical issues in the United States as well as around the world. Courses may include Renaissance and Reformation, Women in History, Ancient Mediterranean History, the United States Since 1945, Southwest Borderlands as well as Survey of Asian Empires.
The Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts with an emphasis on Worship Ministry prepares students for careers in worship leadership and ministry. The program allows students to focus on the creativity, artistry, musical ability and performance aspects of ministerial leadership. Students develop a foundation of biblical and theological knowledge while also learning songwriting and arranging in order to use musical performance in worship. Courses required may include Musical Direction, Musical Theory for Contemporary Worship and training in piano, voice, guitar, and percussion.
The Master of Science in Information Technology Management is designed for those who want to pursue leadership positions in IT management. The program is offered by the Colangelo College of Business and covers foundational knowledge in IT processes that are increasingly necessary in the digitized world. The program provides an understanding of organizational behavior, strategic management, business process analysis, and IT project management. An IT project is required as part of the program. Courses required may include Innovation in Information Technology and Data Management, IT Management and Leadership, Financial Decision Making, Financial Fundamentals for Managers as well as Information Security and Risk Management.
The Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision provides an understanding of the theoretical and practical background knowledge necessary to supervise clinical counselors or to teach students in counseling programs. The program requires students to conduct psychological research to develop and test new ideas. Research ensures they will be expert practitioners who are capable of supporting counseling students and clinical counselors. The program was created by the College of Doctoral Studies. It is available online and with evening classes. Students are able to examine and integrate ethical theories of counseling as well as how to develop a legal, ethical and personally-relevant style of clinical supervision. They are able to design, deliver and evaluate counselor education experiences while conducting independent research. Students also gain an understanding of how to lead and advocate based on social, cultural and political conditions along with trends in the counseling industry.
About Grand Canyon University
In 1949, the Southern Baptist Church founded Grand Canyon College, opening classes in an abandoned armory building in Prescott, Arizona. In 1951, the school relocated to Phoenix where enrollment grew steadily over the years.
In the early 2000s, however, financial support began to dwindle, impacting academics and operations. In an effort to remain open, the school transitioned out of non-profit status and a new business model took effect in 2004. This allowed the school to enhance the curriculum as well as add additional options designed for working professionals.
All programs integrate Christian beliefs into their curriculum although students of all denominations are welcome to attend. On-campus students attend optional chapel services and Bible studies. Both on-campus and online students may participate in international mission trips and outreach ministries.
During mission trips, which exceed 10 each year, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture.
Grand Canyon University Accreditation Details
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission. Accreditation indicates that Grand Canyon University has the resources to meet its stated goals and objectives. It also indicates that programs offered meet or exceed criteria that the Association has determined to indicate excellence in education. After a peer-review process, which is conducted every 10 years, any areas that are identified as needing improvement are addressed immediately. In addition, programs throughout the University are accredited by the following organizations:
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
Grand Canyon University Application Process
Applicants to Grand Canyon University must be over the age of 16 and no statement of faith is required. They must provide official high school transcripts as well as official ACT or SAT scores.
Graduate students must complete an application for admission and must provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended. Students must have a 2.8 GPA or better. They must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in order to apply for any master’s programs. GRE or GMAT scores are not required and there is no GPA minimum requirement.
Grand Canyon University Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition for the Bachelor of Arts in History and the Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts with an emphasis in Worship Ministry is $8,250 per semester. Tuition for the Master of Science in Information Technology is $520 per credit hour and for the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision is $670 per credit hour.
Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to qualify for financial assistance. Students may be offered grants, scholarships or loans to cover the cost of tuition. Students who attend on campus may also be offered work-study, fellowships or assistantships.
Since it opened, Grand Canyon University has offered programs that are biblically rooted in Christian mission. The school is interdenominational, welcoming students from all backgrounds. The school is committed to Christian beliefs, values, and practices in accord with its mission and vision. Grand Canyon University has a rich heritage steeped in a passion for student success.