Exploring the History and Mission of Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a private, non-profit Christian university located in Phoenix, Arizona. Founded in 1949, GCU has undergone significant changes over the years in terms of its mission and focus. In this article, we will explore the history and mission of Grand Canyon University.
History of Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University was originally founded as a non-profit liberal arts college by the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention in 1949. The school started with just 100 students, but over time it grew and expanded its offerings to include a wider range of degree programs.
In the late 2000s, Grand Canyon University underwent a significant transformation. It became a for-profit institution and began investing heavily in online education. This shift allowed GCU to reach more students than ever before and to expand its offerings beyond traditional on-campus programs.
Today, GCU is one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, with more than 90,000 students enrolled both online and on campus.
Mission of Grand Canyon University
The mission of Grand Canyon University is to prepare learners to become global citizens, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible leaders by providing an academically challenging, values-based curriculum from the context of our Christian heritage.
One key aspect of GCU’s mission is its commitment to incorporating faith into all aspects of education. The university offers chapel services for students, faculty, and staff as well as integrating biblical principles into coursework across all degree programs.
Another important part of GCU’s mission is its focus on preparing students for careers that are both personally fulfilling and socially responsible. The university offers degree programs in fields such as nursing, education, business management, psychology and counseling which are designed to prepare graduates for positions where they can make a positive impact on their communities.
Academics at Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University offers more than 200 degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. These programs are offered through nine colleges, including the Colangelo College of Business, the College of Education, and the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions.
One notable aspect of GCU’s academic offerings is its emphasis on experiential learning. The university has partnerships with more than 1,000 organizations that provide students with opportunities to gain real-world experience in their fields of study.
GCU also offers a range of support services for students, including academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling. These resources are designed to help students succeed academically and professionally.
Campus Life at Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University has a vibrant campus life that includes a wide range of activities and events for students. The university has more than 200 clubs and organizations for students to join, as well as NCAA Division I athletics teams.
GCU also offers a range of student services on campus. These include housing options ranging from traditional dormitories to apartment-style living arrangements, as well as dining options that cater to a variety of dietary needs.
Overall, Grand Canyon University is an institution with a rich history and a strong commitment to preparing students for success in their personal and professional lives. With its focus on faith-based education and experiential learning opportunities, GCU is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality education in a supportive environment.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.