Rooted in Faith, Approved by the State, Online, and Affordable: Your Path to Christian Education in California

Welcome to Open Christian University

At Open Christian University, we are deeply committed to our mission and strategic priorities, which revolve around the training of ministers to serve faithfully in today's world. Our educational approach is grounded in conservative Christian values and designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual understanding necessary for effective ministry.

We achieve this through our two main schools:

The School of Ministry: Our programs are meticulously crafted to address the pressing needs and questions of our time. Through interdisciplinary knowledge, professional field skills, and meaningful spiritual frames, we prepare church leaders to navigate the complexities of modern society while staying rooted in their faith.
The School of Business Theology: We recognize the importance of integrating Christian principles into business and professional environments. Our specialized programs empower Christians to excel in secular work settings while upholding their faith and values.

Additionally, Open Christian University collaborates with secular institutions to offer programs through our School of Interdisciplinary Studies. These collaborations allow us to address knowledge gaps and student leadership needs in various secular fields, ensuring a well-rounded education that prepares students for diverse vocational callings.

Programs Offered

We invite you to explore the available programs in each school by clicking on the links provided:

School of Ministry

School of Business Theology

School of Interdisciplinary Studies

Join us on this journey of faith, learning, and service as we seek to honor God in all aspects of our education and ministry.

Learning Structure and Expected Learning Outcomes at Open Christian University

Undergraduate Programs

Your academic path at Open Christian University is a four-year journey that encompasses a comprehensive undergraduate degree program, tailored to the length of your chosen major. Our commitment to excellence in education is reflected in our blended learning approach, which combines online instruction with real-world application, including a mandatory internship.

Year 1: Foundations of Faith: In your first year, you will delve into the foundational principles of faith, exploring core Christian beliefs, the meaning and purpose of life, and identifying your individual missions. This year-long program (30 credits) is a prerequisite for all students, regardless of their chosen major. Students completing this year may earn a graduate certificate in ministry.
Year 2: Acquisition of Knowledge: In your second year, you will acquire fundamental knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to navigate life's uncertainties. You will select your major and begin studying in your designated field, completing another 30-credit study track with modules relevant to your degree program. At the end of the second year, students may earn an Associate Degree.
Year 3: Understanding Your Calling: Your third year focuses on understanding your uniqueness and identifying your missional calling in contributing to real-world challenges. Through another 30-semester credit track relevant to your specialization, you will deepen your understanding and prepare for further contributions to your missionary field. Students completing this year may earn an ordinary degree.
Year 4: Application and Preparation: In your final year, you will identify your missional pathway and apply your learning to become an effective marketplace minister and team member in a diverse global workforce. This 30-credit track includes an internship and capstone projects, preparing you for off-campus contributions. Students who complete all 120 credits are eligible to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors.

At Open Christian University, we are committed to guiding you on your academic and spiritual journey, empowering you to serve faithfully in your chosen field. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey together, rooted in faith and dedicated to serving others with humility and integrity.

Master-Level Programs

OCU Graduate Programs: Equipping Leaders for Christian Organizations

At Open Christian University, our graduate programs are designed to equip students with broad and deep knowledge, as well as strong leadership skills, positioning them for mid-senior level management positions in fast-moving Christian organizations. With a focus on humility and service, we empower our students to make a meaningful impact in their professional fields.

Program Structure:

Our master's degree program at Open Christian University is a 45-credit undertaking completed over an estimated duration of 1.5 years, offering a self-paced learning experience rooted in Christian values.

Semester 1: Foundations of Knowledge: In the first semester, students acquire fundamental knowledge and critical thinking tools necessary for navigating life's uncertainties. They immediately select their major of choice and complete 15-semester credits of fundamental courses towards their master's program. Students who complete these core modules may receive a postgraduate certificate in their field of study.
Semester 2: Specialization Track: The second semester focuses on specialization, with 15-credit modules tailored to the student's area of expertise. Upon completion of these credits, students may be awarded a postgraduate diploma, providing them with a deeper understanding of their chosen field.
Semester 3: Research Pathway: In the final semester, students embark on a research pathway to enhance their research skills and contribute to the body of knowledge in their missional field. They are required to write a publishable research paper, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence and advancing the Kingdom of God.

At Open Christian University, we believe in nurturing servant leaders who are grounded in faith and committed to serving others with humility and integrity. Join us as we embark on this journey of academic and spiritual growth, preparing you to make a lasting impact in Christian organizations worldwide.

Doctoral Programs

Doctoral Programs at Open Christian University: Advancing Knowledge and Ministry Practices

At Open Christian University, our doctoral programs are rigorous research undertakings designed to empower students to contribute to the body of knowledge in their mission areas. Rooted in Christian values, we equip our students with the skills and expertise needed to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields.

Program Structure:

Our doctoral programs offer two pathways: professional doctorates and doctorates of philosophy (PhDs).

Professional Doctorates: Consisting of 60 credits, our professional doctorate programs typically span over 2 years. Students are encouraged to engage in real-world projects and innovations that contribute to ministry practices in their areas of practice. While some programs may be completed through taught courses, our self-paced model offers opportunities for students to complete the program sooner. Upon completion, students are required to submit two papers and a thesis, reflecting our commitment to integrating academic rigor with practical application.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhDs): Our PhD programs consist of 90 research credits, with an estimated completion period of 3 years. Students are expected to conduct in-depth research and publish their findings to advance the body of knowledge in their respective fields. In addition to the two papers and a thesis required for professional doctorates, PhD students are tasked with an additional paper, showcasing their commitment to academic excellence and scholarly contribution. Similar to professional doctorates, some programs may be completed through taught courses, and our self-paced model allows for flexible completion timelines.

At Open Christian University, we believe in nurturing scholars who are dedicated to serving God and others with humility and integrity. Our doctoral programs provide a platform for students to deepen their understanding, refine their skills, and make a lasting impact in ministry and academia.

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