Education

Program Overview

Through Grace Christian University’s cooperative arrangement with Cornerstone University, students have the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and disciplines necessary for a career in elementary and secondary education. Students satisfying the program requirements will receive a Bachelor of Religious Education degree from Grace and a Bachelor of Arts from Cornerstone University. READ MORE

Curriculum / Courses

FEATURED COURSES
+ BI 215 -Biblical Interpretation

An introduction to the principles and practice of biblical interpretation as well as the primary tools of biblical research. Intended primarily for students majoring in Biblical Studies, this course seeks to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to correctly interpret and analyze various literary genres, as well as develop skills needed for accurate practical application and teaching. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

+ BI 302 -Jesus and the Gospels

The theology of Jesus, origin and background of the Gospels. Theological, social, and pastoral relevance of the gospels. Special attention to the canon of the New Testament. Offered alternate years.

+ ED 281 -Principles and Philosophy of Education

An introductory course in teacher education presenting an overview of the roles, skills, knowledge base and values required of qualified classroom teachers. The course is designed to give students a frameworkÐtheoretical and philosophicalÐfor evaluating educational principles, perspectives, policies and procedures. Contemporary systems and historical implications of theory and practice will be considered as students interact with these data from a Christian/biblical worldview. As a culminating class project, students will construct a personal philosophy of education. ED 283 is taken concurrently with this course.

+ ED 283 -School Observation Practicum

During this field-based practicum, students will observe in the classroom of Christian, public, elementary, secondary, high-needs, multicultural, magnet schools, special education and a variety of other school settings. Students will learn to recognize the multidimensionality and overlapping experiences through observation and seminar experiences. This course is taken concurrently with ED 281.

+ ED 351 -Educational Psychology

Principles of learning theory and their application in the classroom. A study of the learner, the learning process and the varied factors which influence learning.

+ EDU 262 -Educational Technology

+ EDU 382 -Teacher Assistant Practicum

+ IDS 101 -Creativity, Innovation and Problem Solving

ALL COURSES
+ EN -English

Students will complete (1) EN 101 and EN 102 or (2) EN 201* *English placement is based on a student’s SAT or ACT scores.

+ COM 131 -Fundamentals of Speech

Fundamentals of Speech will increase studentsÕ knowledge and awareness of the theory and principles of public speaking. Casual and formal speaking opportunities will be used to develop confidence as a public speaker. Topic selection, cultural intelligence and sensitivity for diverse audiences, patterns of organization, development of supporting materials and creative presentation of ideas are part of the course.

+ COM 250 -Interpersonal Communication

This course focuses on the importance of interpersonal communication and the common barriers that confound relationships such as culture, conflict, gender, and perception of differences. Students will evaluate current connections from a Christian worldview and from that foundation identify strategies for strengthening personal and professional influences for mission/vision-minded goals.

+ COM 331 -Communication Skills

This course pursues an advanced understanding of the communication process as it relates to skillful writing and resume development, internship and employment interviewing, organized informational presentations, professional interactions, cultural intelligence, and etiquette in the workplace.

+ EN 305 -Children’s Literature

Survey of literature for children and adolescents, designed to assist in evaluation and interpretation. Traditional literature, authors, modern works and the Caldecott, Newberry and other award-winning books studied in the light of the child's personal and spiritual needs.

+ GE 101 -The Grace Experience

The Grace Experience will facilitate students’ understanding of Christian worldview and its application to Christian university life. Through various educational experiences, students will learn about self, others, cultural intelligence, career options, and how the Body of Christ works together to impact the world for His glory. As part of the course, students will gain an understanding of a successful, fulfilling path to graduation, and preparation to serve Christ in church and society. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

+ PE -Physical Education Elective(s)

Physical Education Elective(s)

+ PH -Philosophy Elective

Philosophy Elective

+ Fine Arts Elective

Fine Arts Elective

+ SC -Science Elective

Science Elective

+ HI -History of Civilization Elective

History of Civilization Elective

+ PS 201 -Introduction to Psychology

This course is a general survey of the discipline of psychology including the principles, methods, vocabulary, and major theories in the study of human behavior. Consideration will be given to selected application of psychology for life and ministry.

+ SO 251 -Principles of Sociology

Study of contemporary Western society with emphasis on culture, socialization, group life, social institutions, social processes and social change.

+ BL 102 -Old Testament Literature

This course is designed to survey the literature of the Old Testament in its historical setting, literary types, and main ideas. Attention is given to outstanding persons, events, and major teachings.

+ BL 202 -New Testament Literature

This course is designed to survey the literature of the New Testament in its historical setting, literary types, and main ideas. Attention is given to outstanding persons, events, and maj

+ BI 205 -Bible Study Methods and Application

An introduction to the principles and practice of inductive Bible study, with emphasis on the effective communication of biblical truth. This course will include assignments intended to develop skills in expository writing and biblical instruction. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

+ BI -Upper Division Bible Elective(s)

Upper Division Bible Electives

+ TH 161 -Christian Worldview

+ TH 162 -Christian Mission

+ TH 213 -Biblical Christian Thought

This course emphasizes Scripture as the basis of Christian thought about God and surveys a range of Christian doctrine from the standpoint of systematic, historical & dogmatic theology. It also includes a survey of the progressive revelation of GodÕs plan in Scripture as foundational to a Christian worldview; provides a focused introduction to Pauline dispensational theology and its unique ecclesiological and eschatological interests. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

+ TH 301 -Formation and Service I

This course focuses on the practical outworking of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. The importance of the Holy Spirit will be stressed, with attention given to how the Spirit equips GodÕs people for service. Christian Ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

+ TH 302 -Formation and Service II

This course emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Special consideration will be given to the development of a plan for lifelong spiritual growth. Christian ministry requirements are also embedded in this course.

+ TH -Upper Division Theology Elective

Upper Division Theology Elective

+ PS 236 -Developmental Psychology

This course is designed to explore human development, including spiritual, from conception through adolescence, using the bio-psycho-social model. We will explore how humans share developmental similarities, yet are unique due to various factors.

+ PS 325 -Social Psychology

A study of individual behaviors within the context of one's society, including how people think about, influence and relate to one another, including attitudes, beliefs, prejudices, aggression, leadership, altruism, conformity, attraction, persuasion, stereotypes and the like.

+ SO 343 -Cultural Diversity

This course is designed to assist students in recognizing acculturative variations and behaviors based on race/ethnicity, gender/sexuality, disability, age and religious/spiritual orientation. The course will provide an overview of the role culture plays in oneÕs attitude/beliefs regarding these topics with an emphasis on how oneÕs own belief system impacts his/her relationships with others.

+ SO 356 -Marriage and Family

Analysis of the family as an American institution including an emphasis on those factors of courtship which influence an integrative relationship of marriage and family.