Pursue a Master's in Christian Leadership Program at GCU
Prepare to inspire congregations and communities as an ethical and godly leader. Join the Grand Canyon Theological Seminary and earn your Master of Arts in Christian Leadership degree. With a master's in Christian leadership, you will have the opportunity to nurture your personal, spiritual and professional growth, as well as position yourself to expand your career opportunities as you pursue your life's work in God's name. This program of study may be ideal for those who would like to step into leadership positions in the church, the parachurch, ministry or similar settings.
Transfer Credits
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements
- Undergraduate Degree*
- 2.8+ GPA
- GMAT: 500
- GRE: 300 combined**
Or Passing Test Scores:
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
Benefits of Earning Your MA in Christian Leadership
GCU's degree in Christian leadership can provide you a solid framework of biblical principles and theological knowledge as you explore best practices in leadership and management. This thoughtful blend of theological studies and administrative skill development may position future Christian leaders to positively transform their church and local communities. Graduates can become well-equipped to pursue their life's mission of furthering God's kingdom and sharing the love of Christ with those they lead. This master's in Christian leadership degree includes ministry field experiences to reinforce concepts and theories in practical contexts.
Topics Covered in a Master's in Christian Leadership Degree
The Master of Arts in Christian Leadership degree teaches you management philosophies and biblical hermeneutics. You will work to gain an in-depth understanding of the various styles of leadership and further the objectives of churches, nonprofit organizations, businesses and communities. Guide others in their own explorations of hermeneutical studies and inspire them to achieve their spiritual goals.
Some of the core courses for this Christian leadership program cover the following topics:
- Ministerial ethics
- Practical theology
- Biblical foundations of Christian leadership
- Christian leadership best practices
- How to lead during crisis, conflict and change
Core Competencies
As a student in the master's in Christian leadership program, you will work through a robust curriculum of Christian doctrine, systematic theology and organizational leadership. Analyze the meaning of key themes such as redemption and study how redemption is presented in the Pentateuch and other Old Testament texts. Explore the concept of the Kingdom of God through Old and New Testament writings. Reflect upon Jesus' leadership style and consider how its principles can be applied within the modern world.
Other core competencies include the following:
- Christian self-care, personal morality, character formation and ethical concerns of ministers as they shepherd God’s people
- Theological and historical development of cardinal doctrines of the Christian faith
- Christian leadership through the dynamics of crisis, conflict and change
Career Possibilities With a Master of Arts Degree in Christian Leadership
Graduates of the Grand Canyon Theological Seminary can become prepared for a lifetime of serving Christ through faithful ministry. Work to become a Christian leader by pursuing a ministerial position in a faith-based organization.
As a Christian leader, you can position yourself to make a positive, impactful difference in the lives of others and in the community as a whole. You may pursue leadership positions in youth groups or corporate teams, or you may seek to join the staff of a church or parachurch. Some career paths may require additional credentials, training or academic qualifications.
Master's Degree in Christian Leadership FAQs
If you're considering earning your master's in Christian leadership degree, read though some commonly asked questions to learn more.
Course List
Credit Summary
Major38 Credits
Degree Requirements38 Credits
Core Courses
UNV-505
2 Total Credits
Introduction to Graduate Studies in Ministry and Theology
MIN-526
4 Total Credits
Ministerial Ethics
BIB-650
4 Total Credits
Biblical Hermeneutics
HTH-620
4 Total Credits
Practical Theology
BIB-501
4 Total Credits
Old Testament Foundations
BIB-502
4 Total Credits
New Testament Foundations
HTH-515
4 Total Credits
Christian Doctrines
CHL-510
4 Total Credits
Biblical Foundations of Christian Leadership
CHL-630
4 Total Credits
Best Practices in Christian Leadership
CHL-650
4 Total Credits
Leading Through Crisis, Conflict and Change
Make a Difference in Your Community
Join peers with the drive to make a difference your community by pursuing a GCU’s Master of Arts in Christian Leadership degree.
