Academic photos

Alumni spotlight

Campus experience

Firestorm Family

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ACU Welcome Week 2021

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Student Spotlight - Xavier Watkins

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Firestorm Faces - Reggie Robinson

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Student Life - Knockerball

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Campus photos

Faculty spotlight

Jeffrey Green, Ph.D.

Vice President of Academic Affairs

Dr. Jeffrey Green, Ph.D., joins Arizona Christian University as Vice President of Academic Affairs, bringing his experience from Houston Christian University where he served as Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Provost. A scholar in Philosophy and passionate about integrating faith and scholarship, Green is committed to academic excellence and the university's mission.

Adam Rasmussen, Ph.D.

College of Arts and Humanities

Dr. Adam Rasmussen, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at Arizona Christian University, blending 25 years of Christian education experience with a focus on faith, reason, and culture within the CORE Christian Liberal Arts Curriculum to guide students towards impactful lives under the Lordship of Christ.

Linnea Lyding, Ed.D.

Shelly Roden School of Education

Dr. Linnea Lyding, Ed.D., serves as Assistant Dean and Head of the Shelly Roden School of Education at Arizona Christian University. Her work, enriched by expertise in early childhood and special education, focuses on innovative teaching and the importance of movement in learning.

Carolyn Pela, Ph.D., LMFT, CFLE

Department of Political Science and Family Studies

Dr. Carolyn Pela, Ph.D., LMFT, CFLE, is a Professor and Assistant Dean at Arizona Christian University, leading the School of Arts, Sciences, and Humanities. Her scholarly work focuses on psychology, marriage and family therapy, and the dynamics of sexual attraction, contributing significantly through research, publications, and international presentations.

Kyle DiRoberts, Ph.D.

School of Biblical and Theological Studies

Dr. Kyle DiRoberts, Ph.D., is the Department Chair and Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies at Arizona Christian University. An author and scholar, his work includes "Prayer, Middle Knowledge, and Divine-Human Interaction." DiRoberts also directs internship programs at Scottsdale Bible Church and enjoys family time and hobbies.

Jeff Phillips, M.Div.

School of Biblical and Theological Studies

Dr. Steven Rutt, Ph.D., leverages his 45 years of pastoral, missionary, and teaching experience across fourteen countries to serve as Associate Professor and Director of the Master of Arts in Theology, Worldview, and Culture at ACU. A published author, Rutt has a profound impact on theological and intercultural studies.

Joseph Kezele, M.D.

Department of Natural and Psychological Sciences

Dr. Joseph Kezele, with a background in emergency medicine and a passionate educator in creation science evangelism, serves as Associate Professor of Biology at ACU. Kezele has participated in numerous dinosaur digs and teaches an array of science courses. His commitment extends to global mission trips, emphasizing science and evangelism.

Matt Spivey, Ph.D.

Department of Liberal Arts

Dr. Matt Spivey, an Assistant Professor at Arizona Christian University since 2008, teaches a wide range of English courses. He specializes in American fiction, dystopian literature, and literary criticism using Austrian economic theory. Spivey, who enjoys golf and films, also advises the ACU English Club and Writing Center.

Tracy Munsil, Ph.D.

Department of Political Science and Family Studies

Dr. Tracy Munsil, an Associate Professor at ACU and Executive Director of the Cultural Research Center, has significantly contributed to the ACU CORE curriculum. Her involvement extends beyond academia into civic service, including a gubernatorial appointment and advocacy for pro-life causes, while also being a dedicated educator and mother.

Local area

Glendale, Arizona

From the nation’s finest sports and entertainment district to top-notch accommodations and one of the most renowned shopping areas in America, Glendale has a blend of historic charm, sports and entertainment year around.

Top things to do

Sports

We're well known to host spring training at Peoria Sports Complex, the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium and other sports teams.

Entertainment

Watch your favorite sports teams, visit local zoos, go offroading and enjoy local entertainment in Westgate Entertainment District.

Shopping

Visit Historic Downtown Glendale, Arrowhead Towne Center and Tanger Outlets for all your shopping needs!

Recreation

Enjoy our local golf and disc golf courses, hiking/ biking trails and many local parks to get active this spring season!

Religious life

At Arizona Christian University, the spiritual life is central to the campus experience, integrating worship, discipleship, and service. Students engage in chapel services, partake in service projects, and join small groups for deeper faith practice. This holistic approach ensures spiritual growth alongside academic achievements, reflecting ACU's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals rooted in Christian values.

Religious affiliation

Christian

Sacred spaces and religious facilities

Office of Spiritual Life

Firestorm Chapel

House of Prayer

Performing Arts Auditorium - 24 Hour Prayer Nights

Spectator sports

Arizona Christian University's athletics, known as the Firestorm, compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The university boasts a tradition of excellence in its athletic programs, including multiple conference championships and national tournament appearances across a variety of sports. ACU has achieved 11 championships since 2011 and has nationally ranked teams in sports like football, basketball, baseball, and volleyball. The athletic department emphasizes core values such as faith, influence, relationships, and excellence, guiding student-athletes towards success both in competition and in life.

Conference affiliation

NAIA & GSAC

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Student groups

Student-run groups and organizations

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Traditions

Homecoming Events

A series of festivities that include Spirit Day, alumni and family BBQ, and Powderpuff football, celebrating the community and school spirit.

Homecoming Court

Annual fall event where Homecoming Royalty, including the King and Queen, are crowned, highlighting student leadership and involvement.

GO Week

Emphasizes Global Opportunities and celebrates cultures worldwide, including mission trips, fostering a global perspective among students.

Christmas Tree Lighting

Marks the beginning of the holiday season with the lighting of the ACU Christmas tree, accompanied by festive activities like photos with Santa and snow.

Good Citizens Week (GCW)

Focuses on embodying good citizenship through activities like voter registration, trash pickup, and blood donation, inspired by the biblical call to love one's neighbor.

Grants and scholarships

Honors Scholarships

Academic Scholarships

Christian School Coalition Scholarship Program

Association of Classical Christian Schools Scholarship

ACU is a college affiliated with the Association of Classical Christian Schools. The ACU ACCS Scholarship is designed to encourage, train, support, and educate ACCS students who share in the common focus, value, and importance of a classical Christian education in our culture. The ACCS scholarship provides a scholarship benefit for students choosing to continue their classical Christian education at ACU*.

Learn more here

Transfer Scholarships

Spiritual Life Scholarships

Athletic Scholarships

Music Scholarships

Miscellaneous Grants

Annual cost

Tuition	$16,449 per semester
Room & Board	$6,283 Note- Room & Board cost is an average. Multiple housing options are available.

Arizona Christian University