Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education (B.A.C.E.) is a fully online program for students who desire to establish a deeper understanding of the educational process in the context of a Biblical worldview.  The general studies offer students a well-rounded liberal arts education and the completion of the education courses and practicum field experiences prepares the student to teach in a Christian school setting and serve as a K-12 classroom teacher.  Emphasis is placed upon teaching from a Biblical worldview and reaching the heart for Christ throughout the program.  In addition, the education core courses challenge students to identify a personal philosophy of education and acquire the foundational skills, pedagogical expertise, curricular design understanding, and methodological approaches to successful teaching.  To expand knowledge and skills, students will choose a specific specialized track to train for either K-5th grade or 6th-12th grade according to their gifting and calling.

Note: The institution does not offer any programs that lead to professional licensure. A graduate of programs offered at CCU is not eligible to sit for licensure exams within the United States.”

Upon graduation, students may directly apply to ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) for a certificate to teach in Christian schools, but CCU does not offer certification toward public school assignments.

Purpose

The BACE is a well-rounded degree that equips those called to Christian education with the skills and knowledge needed to teach students, lead colleagues, and serve Jesus throughout the process.

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcomes are clearly defined, established, and measurable in the statements outlined below. The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education degree will equip the student with practical skills and deep understanding of the educational process in the context of a Biblical Worldview.  The student will develop exceptional written and oral communication skills that will benefit both personally and professionally. Program learning outcomes include the following:

The student will:

Philosophy

• Analyze educational philosophies by conducting research and integrating a Biblical worldview into assignments throughout the program.
• Develop a philosophy of education by crafting personal statements on the role of the teacher, role of the learner, curriculum design, behavior, and technology.
• Design curriculum and lessons from a Biblical worldview by integrating Biblical principles into assignments.

Proficiency

• Demonstrate research competency by reading assigned literature, writing assigned papers, and presenting to appropriate audiences.
• Assess student learning and monitor academic progress by incorporating best practices for curriculum development, pedagogical practices, and strategies for student engagement and learning styles into assignments and field placements.
• Demonstrate understanding of child development by designing appropriate practices for children at each developmental stage according to various learning theories.

Professionalism

• Create a Christ like educational environment by implementing Biblical principles into the classroom and school culture.
• Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning by reading and researching beyond the stated assignment.
• Collaborate with other educators by providing substantive comments and additional questions that increase critical thinking on discussion boards and offering collaborative feedback.  

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education is 120 credits and features 30 general education credits, 60 degree specific credits, and 30 credits that prepare the student to teach K-5 or 6-12.  Fifteen credits are applied to two field placement practicums and one semester long student teaching placement.  The method of instruction is 100% online, asynchronous format, with video conferencing.

General Education Courses

English Communications & Critical Thinking (6 credits)

Natural Sciences & Mathematics (6 credits)

Art & Humanities (12 credits)

Social & Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)

Bible, Ministry, and Leadership Courses

Education Courses

Specializations Offered

(Click on Specialization for more information)

• Elementary
• Secondary

Courses

• All courses in the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Education degree program are undergraduate level.