GCSD Info Meeting:
Wednesday, February 11th from 6:30-7pm
In "The Hub" at GateCity Church
In "The Hub" at GateCity Church
GCSD Info Meeting:
Wednesday, February 11th from 6:30-7pm
In "The Hub" at GateCity Church
A two-year journey of biblical formation
and spiritual encounter.
Grounded in Scripture.
Transformed through prayer.
Rooted in spiritual family.
GateCity School of Discipleship (GCSD) is a two-year, presence-centered discipleship training school designed to form believers through deep biblical teaching, intentional spiritual formation, and life together in Christian community—
all within the atmosphere of 24/7 prayer.
GCSD exists to make disciples marked by theological depth, spiritual transformation, and a life compelled by mission—carrying the
presence of God into the church, the marketplace, and the nations.
For students who are interested in participating in the GateCity School of Discipleship while also pursuing a college degree, GCSD has established a cooperative agreement with Faith International University that allows GCSD students to significantly reduce the time and cost of obtaining a bachelor's degree through FIU.
A two-year journey of biblical formation and spiritual encounter.
Grounded in Scripture.
Transformed through prayer.
Rooted in spiritual family.
GateCity School of Discipleship (GCSD) is a two-year, presence-centered discipleship training school designed to form believers through deep biblical teaching, intentional spiritual formation, and life together in Christian community—all within the atmosphere of 24/7 prayer.
GCSD exists to make disciples marked by theological depth, spiritual transformation, and a life compelled by mission—carrying the presence of God into the church, the marketplace, and the nations.
For students who are interested in participating in the GateCity School of Discipleship while also pursuing a college degree, GCSD has established a cooperative agreement with Faith International University that allows GCSD students to significantly reduce the time and cost of obtaining a bachelor's degree through FIU.
Receive a strong theological foundation rooted in the Word of God
Be transformed through prayer, worship,
and outreach
Grow within a committed spiritual family
Learn to integrate faith, calling, and mission
Be equipped to cultivate presence-centered
churches and prayer rooms
Receive a strong theological foundation rooted in the Word of God
Be transformed through prayer, worship,
and outreach
Grow within a committed spiritual family
Learn to integrate faith, calling, & mission
Be equipped to cultivate presence-centered churches and prayer rooms
Program Overview
GCSD is a two-year program, with each academic year running from September through May. Classes are scheduled in the evenings, making the program accessible for students balancing full-time work, school, or family responsibilities. GCSD offers a fully online school program for those who do not live locally.
MONDAYS
6:30–9:00 PM
Core Messages + Prayer Room Encounter
+ Small Groups
WEDNESDAYS
7:00–8:30 PM
Foundations of the Faith
FIRST YEAR STUDENTS
Mondays and Wednesdays
SECOND YEAR STUDENTS
Mondays, plus one Wednesday per month for Chapel, Outreach, and Fellowship.
Note: The published yearly schedule serves as a planning guide and may be adjusted as the academic year unfolds.
Class Schedule:
Class Description
Monday evenings focus on classroom teaching followed by prayer room encounter, then weekly small groups. Each Core Message centers on one of five primary areas:
Students who complete the full program may later enroll in additional Core Messages classes they have not yet taken at a discounted rate.
Prayer Room Encounter offers students a chance to connect with the Lord through guided prayer room experiences, exploring different ways to engage in prayer and reflection.
Small groups provide space for relationship, discussion, prayer, and application—forming students in both truth and community.
- Knowledge of God – deepening intimacy and understanding
- Kingdom Lifestyle – living faithfully in obedience and love
- Breakthrough & Revival – contending for spiritual breakthrough and revival
- Justice & Compassion – practicing God’s heart through service and outreach
- Eschatology – gaining perspective and urgency for God’s Kingdom to come
Students who complete the full program may later enroll in additional Core Messages classes they have not yet taken at a discounted rate.
Prayer Room Encounter offers students a chance to connect with the Lord through guided prayer room experiences, exploring different ways to engage in prayer and reflection.
Small groups provide space for relationship, discussion, prayer, and application—forming students in both truth and community.
Class Description
Wednesdays are devoted to Foundations of the Faith, a one-year curriculum offered to all first-year students. This curriculum highlights essential pillars of Christian
discipleship, including:
discipleship, including:
- Core doctrines and beliefs of the Christian faith
- How to read and interpret Scripture
- Prayer and spiritual disciplines
- Growing in the knowledge of God
- Sharing one’s faith
- Living a godly and faithful Christian life
Attendance By Year:
Community-Wide Fast Schedule
At the beginning of each month, GCSD’s
regular schedule adjusts during the Community-Wide Fast (CWF).
MONDAY:
First-year students begin your week by connecting with the Lord through a directed prayer room experience followed by a guided group debrief and an engaging Core Messages Overview teaching.
Second-year students will receive Prayer
Room Practicum teachings and assignments
that equip them to go even deeper in their interaction with the Lord during an extended
time in the Prayer Room.
WEDNESDAY:
First- and second-year students gather together for monthly rotating events, including:
Chapel Night
Come together for worship, communion, and
a shared fellowship meal.
Outreach Night
Put your faith into action with hands-on
opportunities to serve and share.
Fun Night
Enjoy off-campus activities and build
friendships through fellowship and fun.
These rhythms help anchor students in prayer, worship, and communal life throughout the year.
Program Overview
GCSD is a two-year program, with each academic year running from September through May. Classes are scheduled in the evenings, making the program accessible for students balancing full-time work, school, or family responsibilities. GCSD offers a fully online school program for those who do not live locally.
Class Schedule:
MONDAYS
6:30–9:00 PM
Core Messages + Prayer Room Encounter + Small Groups
Class Description
Monday evenings focus on classroom teaching followed by prayer room encounter, then weekly small groups.
Each Core Message centers on one of five primary areas:
Core Messages Intensive teachings rotate from one two-year cycle to the next.
Students who complete the full program may later enroll in additional Core Messages classes they have not yet taken at a discounted rate.
Prayer Room Encounter offers students a chance to connect with the Lord through guided prayer room experiences, exploring different ways to engage in prayer and reflection.
Small groups provide space for relationship, discussion, prayer, and application—forming students in both truth and community.
Each Core Message centers on one of five primary areas:
- Knowledge of God – deepening intimacy and understanding
- Kingdom Lifestyle – living faithfully in obedience and love
- Breakthrough & Revival – contending for spiritual breakthrough and revival
- Justice & Compassion – practicing God’s heart through service and outreach
- Eschatology – gaining perspective and urgency for God’s Kingdom to come
Core Messages Intensive teachings rotate from one two-year cycle to the next.
Students who complete the full program may later enroll in additional Core Messages classes they have not yet taken at a discounted rate.
Prayer Room Encounter offers students a chance to connect with the Lord through guided prayer room experiences, exploring different ways to engage in prayer and reflection.
Small groups provide space for relationship, discussion, prayer, and application—forming students in both truth and community.
WEDNESDAYS
7:00–8:30 PM
Foundations of the Faith
Class Description
Wednesdays are devoted to Foundations of the Faith, a one-year curriculum offered to all first-year students. This curriculum highlights essential pillars of Christian
discipleship, including:
discipleship, including:
- Core doctrines and beliefs of the Christian faith
- How to read and interpret Scripture
- Prayer and spiritual disciplines
- Growing in the knowledge of God
- Sharing one’s faith
- Living a godly and faithful Christian life
Attendance By Year:
First-year students:
Mondays and Wednesdays
Second-year students:
Mondays, plus one Wednesday per month for
Chapel, Outreach, and Fellowship.
Note: The published yearly schedule serves as a planning guide
and may be adjusted as the academic year unfolds.
Community-Wide Fast Schedule
At the beginning of each month, GCSD’s regular schedule adjusts
during the Community-Wide Fast (CWF).
Monday:
- First-year students begin your week by connecting with the Lord through a directed prayer room experience followed by a guided group debrief and an engaging Core Messages Overview teaching.
- Second-year students will receive Prayer Room Practicum teachings and assignments that equip them to go even deeper in their interaction with the Lord during an extended time in the Prayer Room.
Wednesday:
First- and second-year students gather together for
monthly rotating events, including:
Chapel Night
Come together for worship, communion, and a shared fellowship meal.
Outreach Night
Put your faith into action with hands-on opportunities to serve and share.
Fun Night
Enjoy off-campus activities and build friendships through fellowship and fun.
These rhythms help anchor students in prayer, worship, and
communal life throughout the year.
GCSD Online
Online students participate in live classroom sessions with opportunities for real-time interaction and instructor-led Q&A, connect in small groups through video calls, and engage in guided prayer experiences alongside the GateCity Prayer Room through live web streams. Students complete the same coursework, assignments, and assessments as in-person students, ensuring a unified academic and spiritual experience across all formats.
All classes, assignments, communication, and assessments are accessed through a centralized online learning platform, allowing students to stay fully connected, supported, and engaged—no matter where they are located.
*There is an additional Virtual Learning Technology Fee of $25 per academic year for those who choose the fully online program.
Faith International University Partnership
This pathway allows students to pursue accredited academic progress while remaining fully immersed in discipleship, prayer, and Christian community.
Tuition & Payment Options
ANNUAL TUITION:
- First-year students: $1,000 total for the year
- Second-year students: $650 total for the year
TUITION INCLUDES:
- A $100 application/enrollment fees for first-year students
- A $65 application/enrollment fees for second-year students
DISCOUNT FOR MARRIED COUPLES ENROLLED TOGETHER:
- Year 1 combined tuition: $1,500 total for the year
- Year 2 combined tuition: $1000 total for the year
- Combined tuition includes enrollment fees of $150 for Year 1 and $100 for Year 2
ADDITIONAL FEES:
- Virtual Instruction Technology Fee: $25 per academic year
- Applies only to students enrolled in 100% online instruction
- Assessed once per academic year and not included in tuition
- Due by first day of academic year
PAYMENT SCHEDULE:
- The $50 non-refundable application fee must be submitted with the application
- The enrollment fee, first month’s tuition payment, and Virtual Instruction Technology Fee (if applicable) are due 10 days prior to the start of the school year.
- The remaining balance may be:
- Paid in full prior to the start of the school year, or
- Paid in monthly installments over the nine-month school year:
- First year students: $100 per month
- Second year students: $65 per month
- Married couples enrolled together: $150 per month for Year 1 and $100 per month for Year 2
- Monthly payments are due by the first day of each month during the school year.
- Paid in full prior to the start of the school year, or
- Paid in monthly installments over the nine-month school year:
- First year students: $100 per month
- Second year students: $65 per month
- Married couples enrolled together: $150 per month for Year 1 and $100 per month for Year 2
GCSD Online
Online students participate in live classroom sessions with opportunities for real-time interaction and instructor-led Q&A, connect in small groups through video calls, and engage in guided prayer experiences alongside the GateCity Prayer Room through live web streams. Students complete the same coursework, assignments, and assessments as in-person students, ensuring a unified academic and spiritual experience across all formats.
All classes, assignments, communication, and assessments are accessed through a centralized online learning platform, allowing students to stay fully connected, supported, and engaged—no matter where they are located.
*There is an additional Virtual Learning Technology Fee of $25 per academic year for those who choose the fully online program.
Faith International University Partnership
This pathway allows students to pursue accredited academic progress while remaining fully immersed in discipleship, prayer, and Christian community.
Tuition & Payment Options
ANNUAL TUITION:
- First-year students: $1,000 total for the year
- Second-year students: $650 total for the year
TUITION INCLUDES:
- A $100 application/enrollment fees for first-year students
- A $65 application/enrollment fees for second-year students
DISCOUNT FOR MARRIED COUPLES ENROLLED TOGETHER:
- Year 1 combined tuition: $1,500 total for the year
- Year 2 combined tuition: $1000 total for the year
- Combined tuition includes enrollment fees of $150 for Year 1 and $100 for Year 2
ADDITIONAL FEES:
- Virtual Instruction Technology Fee: $25 per academic year
- Applies only to students enrolled in 100% online instruction
- Assessed once per academic year and not included in tuition
- Due by first day of academic year
PAYMENT SCHEDULE:
- The $50 non-refundable application fee must be submitted with the application
- The enrollment fee, first month’s tuition payment, and Virtual Instruction Technology Fee (if applicable) are due 10 days prior to the start of the school year.
- The remaining balance may be:
Paid in full prior to the start of the school year
or
Paid in monthly installments over the nine-month school year:
Monthly installment schedule:
- First year students: $100 per month
- Second year students: $65 per month
- Married couples enrolled together: $150 per month for Year 1 and $100 per month for Year
- Monthly payments are due by the first day of each month during the school year.
Is GCSD For You?
GCSD is for believers who:
- Desire a deeper knowledge of Scripture
- Long to grow in intimacy with God
- Seek to deepen their prayer life and spiritual formation
- Value life-on-life discipleship and community
- Sense a call to serve faithfully in the church, workplace, or mission field
If you are hungry for depth, formation, and presence-centered life with God, GCSD invites you
to take the next step.
Is GCSD For You?
GCSD is for believers who:
- Desire a deeper knowledge of Scripture
- Long to grow in intimacy with God
- Seek to deepen their prayer life and spiritual formation
- Value life-on-life discipleship and community
- Sense a call to serve faithfully in the church, workplace, or mission field
If you are hungry for depth, formation, and presence-centered life with God, GCSD invites you to take the next step.
FAQ's
What is GCSD?
GateCity School of Discipleship is a two-year, presence-centered discipleship training school designed to form believers through deep biblical teaching, intentional spiritual formation, and life together in Christian community—all within the atmosphere of 24/7 worship and prayer.
Why is GCSD something I should consider?
GCSD is ideal for students who want:
- Deep spiritual formation alongside biblical education
- Structured discipleship rooted in real Christian community
- Growth in intimacy with God
- Teaching that integrates theology, prayer, worship, justice, and mission
- Preparation for ministry, leadership, or lifelong Christian faithfulness
What is the GCSD academic year?
Each GCSD academic year runs from September through May. The program follows a traditional academic rhythm and includes scheduled breaks for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Spring Break.
When and where are classes held?
Class Days & Times
Attendance by Year
Location
- Mondays: 6:30–9:00 PM
- Wednesdays: 7:00–8:30 PM
Attendance by Year
- First-year students: Mondays and Wednesdays
- Second-year students: Every Monday, plus one Wednesday per month for Chapel, Outreach, or Fun Nights with first-year students
Location
- On-campus classes take place at GateCity Church in Lawrenceville, Georgia.
- A fully online program is available for students who live outside the GateCity area.
What is the Curriculum for Year 1 and Year 2?
Year 1: Core Messages & Foundations of the Faith
Mondays – Core Messages:
First-year students participate in classroom teaching and small groups focused on
rotating Core Messages from the following themes:
Wednesdays – Foundations of the Faith:
Wednesdays are devoted to a one-year curriculum covering essential Christian beliefs
and practices, including:
Year 2: Core Messages Intensive & Prayer Room Practicum
Mondays – Core Messages Intensive:
Second-year students attend classroom teaching and small group discussion alongside first year students in Core Messages Intensive classes that were not covered the previous year.
Mondays also include the opportunity to engage with the Lord in the Prayer Room, with assignments designed to deepen fellowship with God.
Prayer Room Practicum:
On one Monday of each month, second-year students will receive teachings and assignments that equip them to go even deeper in their time with the Lord during an extended time in the Prayer Room.
Wednesdays – Monthly Rotating Experiences:
Year 2 students attend one Wednesday each month, rotating between the following:
Mondays – Core Messages:
First-year students participate in classroom teaching and small groups focused on
rotating Core Messages from the following themes:
- Knowledge of God – deepening intimacy and understanding
- Kingdom Lifestyle – living faithfully in obedience and love
- Breakthrough & Revival – contending for spiritual breakthrough and revival
- Justice & Compassion – practicing God’s heart through service and outreach
- Eschatology – gaining perspective and urgency for God’s Kingdom to come
Wednesdays – Foundations of the Faith:
Wednesdays are devoted to a one-year curriculum covering essential Christian beliefs
and practices, including:
- Essential doctrines of the Christian faith
- How to read and interpret Scripture
- Prayer and spiritual disciplines
- Sharing one’s faith
- Godly and faithful living
Year 2: Core Messages Intensive & Prayer Room Practicum
Mondays – Core Messages Intensive:
Second-year students attend classroom teaching and small group discussion alongside first year students in Core Messages Intensive classes that were not covered the previous year.
Mondays also include the opportunity to engage with the Lord in the Prayer Room, with assignments designed to deepen fellowship with God.
Prayer Room Practicum:
On one Monday of each month, second-year students will receive teachings and assignments that equip them to go even deeper in their time with the Lord during an extended time in the Prayer Room.
Wednesdays – Monthly Rotating Experiences:
Year 2 students attend one Wednesday each month, rotating between the following:
- Chapel Night – worship, communion, and shared fellowship meal
- Outreach Night – hands-on service and faith-sharing opportunities
- Fun Night – off-campus activities to enjoy fellowship and build community
Is there an online option?
Yes, there is an Online School option available for those who do not live close enough to GateCity to attend in person. The fully online version is designed to mirror the in-person experience as closely as possible.
Online students will:
Online students will:
- Have the opportunity to ask questions of the instructor live during classroom Q&A sessions
- Participate in small groups with other online students via video calls
- Take part in directed prayer experiences, completing assignments while engaging with the GateCity Prayer Room via web stream
- Complete the same assignments and tests as in-person students, ensuring an equivalent learning experience
Will there be homework?
GCSD students follow a weekly Bible reading plan and are required to read one book per academic year from the required reading list and complete a brief written report.
Will there be tests?
To support students’ growth and ensure understanding of the material, periodic tests are administered throughout the program. These assessments help gauge how well students are grasping the content covered.
Will grades be given?
Tests and assignments are evaluated on a pass/fail basis. Faith International University requires a passing grade for each course before it can be considered for credit toward a degree at FIU.
How much does it cost to attend GCSD?
- Annual Tuition
- First-year students: $1,000 per year
- Second-year students: $650 per year
- Tuition includes:
- $100 application and enrollment fees (first year)
- $65 application and enrollment fees (second year)
Are there any additional fees or costs?
- For students who choose the completely Online School option, there is a Virtual Instruction Technology Fee of $25 per academic year that is not included in tuition.
- While class notes and course materials are included in tuition, students are responsible for purchasing their own selected book for required reading assignments.
- Students are responsible for the cost of admission and meals for any optional off-campus group activities they choose to attend.
Is there a discount for married couples who enroll together?
Married couples who enroll in GCSD together receive a discounted rate resulting in a combined tuition of $1500 for Year 1 and $1000 for Year 2.
Is childcare provided?
Childcare is provided on Wednesday evenings during GCSD class hours. Students with children will need to find their own childcare solution for Monday evenings.
What if I’m local but my work schedule doesn’t align well with GCSD?
GCSD recognizes that many students balance work, family, and ministry responsibilities. While a fully online program is available for local students, in-person participation is strongly encouraged for those who live close enough, as it allows students to fully engage in the relational and community life of GateCity.
When legitimate conflicts arise, local students may make up a limited number of classes online. This flexibility is intended to support students without replacing the value of regular in-person involvement.
When legitimate conflicts arise, local students may make up a limited number of classes online. This flexibility is intended to support students without replacing the value of regular in-person involvement.
Do I have to attend GateCity Church in order to enroll in GCSD?
While attendance at GateCity Church specifically is not required, GCSD students are expected to attend a church service each week at the church of their choosing.
What is the partnership with Faith International University?
GCSD has an articulation agreement with Faith International University (FIU) that offers two huge benefits for those interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university.
- Students who enroll in GCSD will receive a 33% discount on FIU tuition (provided they enroll in FIU within one year of completing GCSD). GCSD and FIU classes may be taken concurrently.
- Students who successfully complete the full two-year GCSD program may be eligible to have their GCSD coursework applied toward college credit through Faith International University (FIU). While the exact number of credits is determined by FIU and depends on degree program and academic requirements, this partnership can significantly reduce the time required to complete a bachelor’s degree compared to starting from scratch. Final credit awards are evaluated and approved by FIU.
What degrees can I earn through Faith International University?
Information on Faith International University’s bachelor’s degree programs can be found on their web site at https://www.faithiu.edu/academics/bachelor-of-arts-programs/
What are the benefits of combining GCSD with Faith International University?
This pathway allows students to:
- Integrate deep spiritual formation with formal education
- Work toward an accredited degree without stepping away from discipleship and community
- Save time by pursuing ministry formation and academic progress simultaneously
- Remain grounded in worship, prayer, and Christian community while studying
- Save up to 33% off the tuition cost of obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree from FIU
How much does it cost if I enroll in both Faith International University and GCSD?
GCSD tuition is separate from FIU tuition. Faith International University will offer GCSD students and recent graduates* a 33% scholarship toward FIU tuition, allowing students the opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a greatly reduced cost. FIU tuition rates vary by credit load; please consult FIU directly for current tuition and financial policies.
*GCSD students must enroll in FIU within 12 months of completing GCSD in order for FIU to consider
them eligible for the 33% tuition scholarship.
*GCSD students must enroll in FIU within 12 months of completing GCSD in order for FIU to consider
them eligible for the 33% tuition scholarship.