Bachelor of Arts in Classical Christian Education

A Degree for the Next Generation of Educators

Program Highlights

• Specialized preparation for classical, Christian, private and charter school environments
• Cross-disciplinary curriculum spanning three distinguished colleges
• Choice between Lower School (EC-6) and Upper School (6-12) specialization tracks
• Supervised teaching experience in non-public school settings
• Integration of classical education principles with Christian worldview

Overview and Requirements

Degree Plan

The BA in Classical Christian Education degree requires 120 total credit hours, with 77 hours dedicated to major coursework that bridges classical studies, Christian thought and educational theory.

Students select either the Lower School or Upper School track, each offering specialized preparation for different grade levels. The Lower School track, centered in the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, focuses on early childhood through sixth-grade instruction. The Upper School track emphasizes subject-specific preparation for sixth grade and above, incorporating advanced coursework in classical studies and specific academic disciplines.

Review degree plan

Courses and Tracks

Core Classical Studies (College of Arts and Humanities)

• Ancient Greek or Roman History
• Classical Philosophy
• Ancient Rhetoric
• Latin or Greek Language Studies
• Art and Cultural Appreciation

Christian Formation (School of Christian Thought)

• Old Testament Theology
• New Testament Theology
• Hermeneutics
• History of Christianity
• Faith, Culture, and the Arts

Educational Foundations (College of Education and Behavioral Sciences)

• Educational Psychology
• Classroom Management
• Teaching Methodology
• Learning Theory
• Curriculum Design

Specialization Tracks

Lower School Track (EC-6)

Housed within the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, this track emphasizes:

• Early childhood development
• Age-appropriate pedagogical approaches
• Foundational skills instruction
• Early learner assessment and development

Upper School Track (6-12)

This interdisciplinary track incorporates advanced study in:

• Classical languages and literature
• Subject-specific teaching methods
• Advanced content area preparation
• Adolescent development and learning

What Can I Do With a Classical Education Degree from HCU?

Careers and Outcomes

The Classical Christian Education program opens the door to a rich landscape of opportunity, where students will find a variety of challenging and fulfilling careers. This comprehensive curriculum prepares students to step into roles within private Christian academies, where they can shape curriculum and foster environments of intellectual curiosity and spiritual growth. Homeschool cooperatives particularly seek educators with deep understanding of classical education principles and the ability to create dynamic learning communities.

Beyond the classroom, this degree develops the skills needed to implement classical education principles at a systematic level, equipping students for roles in educational administration where they can shape the vision of entire educational communities. A thorough grounding in both classical traditions and modern educational standards also prepares students to pursue opportunities as curriculum developers for educational publishing houses and classical school networks, where they can craft curricula rooted in timeless wisdom.

Prepare for Graduate Studies and Research

The Classical Christian Education degree establishes a strong foundation for advanced academic pursuits. The program’s rigorous curriculum prepares students for advancement into master’s programs in education, where their classical background can offer unique perspectives on contemporary educational theories. The comprehensive study of classical languages and civilizations also creates pathways toward advanced degrees in Classical Studies.

Internship Opportunities and Professional Experiences

The program emphasizes experiential learning through structured opportunities in classical educational settings. Through the capstone Clinical Experience course, students engage in supervised teaching within Houston area private schools, Christian schools, classical schools or homeschool co-ops. This hands-on experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real classroom environments under the guidance of experienced teachers-of-record. The Clinical Experience serves as a bridge between academic preparation and professional practice, offering valuable networking opportunities within the classical Christian education community.

Opportunities for Classical Education Majors

Career and Academic Support Services

The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences provides comprehensive support services tailored to classical education students. Academic advisors guide course selection and professional development, ensuring each student’s academic journey aligns with their career aspirations in non-public education settings, graduate school and more.

Related Programs

The collaborative nature of this degree connects naturally with several other programs at Houston Christian University. Through the College of Arts and Humanities, students can explore complementary studies in history, philosophy, and classical studies and through the School of Christian Thought, students can engage more deeply in theology, biblical studies and biblical languages. The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences offers additional education-focused programs that provide different perspectives on teaching and learning.

Admissions and Aid

• Merit-based scholarships
• Need-based financial aid
• Education-specific grants
• Work-study opportunities

Pursue a Classical Education Degree at Houston Christian University

Program Coordinator

Contact Dr. Lesli W. Fridge for detailed program information and guidance through the application process.