Beyond AI: The Value of a Christian Education at DBU

Much ink has been spilled lately regarding the value of a college education — and whether it's worth the investment of time, money, and other resources.

There's no question that higher education is an investment. It demands hours of study, mentorship from professors and peers, and the financial support to carry a student from enrollment to graduation. With college tuition continuing to rise across both public and private institutions, it's no surprise that families are reconsidering whether it's a worthwhile path.

According to a recent Pew Research study, only 47% of Americans believe college is worth the cost — and that's only if loans aren't required. Even more telling, nearly a third of respondents said it wasn't worth the cost at all.

Now, add to the mix the rapid acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI) — and it's easy to understand why high school students (and their parents) are questioning whether college is necessary at all.

But here's the truth: In the age of AI, a Christian university in Texas, like Dallas Baptist University (DBU), is more important than ever. College is no longer just about acquiring knowledge — it's about cultivating wisdom, discernment, and a calling that glorifies God. And these are all things that AI simply cannot provide.

The Limitations of AI 

Knowledge has never been more accessible and readily available than now — as generative AI continues to dominate daily life and tools like ChatGPT become a constant companion for answers and assistance.

But AI cannot do everything. For example:

• AI cannot help a student discern God's calling on their life.
• It cannot build character, instill integrity, or cultivate spiritual maturity.
• It cannot model servant leadership.
• It cannot teach someone how to weigh ethical implications through a biblical lens.

That's why Christian universities in Texas, like DBU, exist: to walk alongside students as they seek wisdom — not just knowledge — and ultimately grow in their relationship with God, no matter how technology evolves.

"The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding." - Proverbs 4:7 NIV

Godly Wisdom in an AI World

In some ways, ChatGPT and other generative AI tools can feel like a digital genie — ask a question and an answer appears instantly, almost like magic! These tools can even be "trained" to mimic tone, style, and voice. They can brainstorm ideas, summarize reports, help with academic research, and so much more.

But there's a difference between these artificially generated answers and wisdom. True understanding — the kind that lasts — requires more than just data. It requires divine insight from the Lord.

That's why, at DBU, our faculty and staff don't just teach curriculum. 

With a biblical worldview as our foundation and the Lord as our guide, we challenge students to do more than just pray about their studies and read their Bibles. We show them how to explore and analyze their chosen disciplines and bring them to bear under the light of Scripture.

We provide them with the latest scholarship and innovations from a variety of fields and philosophical backgrounds while also equipping them to infuse the Christian faith into every aspect of what they study — whether that's business, marketing, healthcare, ministry, or even artificial intelligence.

"I love how everyone at DBU is unified on our one mission: to lift high the name of Christ," says Sarah Castleberry, a 2024 alumna.

Indeed, Christian education provides far more than what AI could ever be, including:

• A deeper understanding of what it means to serve others through your calling
• Godly wisdom and mentorship
• Biblically informed decision-making
• Leadership development that's rooted in a passion for serving others

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." - James 1:5 ESV

The Intersection of Ethics, Faith, and AI

In today's rapidly evolving business and tech landscape, the ability to understand and harness AI is a valuable skill. But these technological advancements also continue to raise profound ethical questions.

That's why DBU launched its Master of Science in Ethical AI and Strategic Decision Sciences (MSAIS), which is one of the few AI programs in Texas that encourages students to contemplate this technology through the lens of a Christian worldview. In doing so, it fosters a holistic understanding of the implications of decisions on both a technical and moral level.

We are among the first schools to have an AI degree in Texas like this that provides a powerful integration of technical expertise and theological insight, preparing students not only to enter the workforce but also to shape it.

Why a Christian University in Texas Is Worth It

While many might be asking the question — "Is college worth it?" — the better question is: "What value do you place on both knowledge and wisdom during foundational years of your life?"

At DBU, students are increasing their knowledge and learning tangible skill sets. But they're also learning Christ-led discernment, shaping a Biblical worldview, and preparing to go out into the world with truth that's rooted in God's word.

In this age of constant innovation, DBU remains committed to equipping students' minds and hearts to serve others, lead with integrity and excellence, and follow God's calling in their lives.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:2 NIV

Ready to Gain Wisdom That AI Cannot Provide?

Many top AI colleges won't provide the same foundational footing in the Lord like DBU.

Explore DBU and learn how you can pursue knowledge, develop wisdom, and follow God's calling — no matter what you study or how technology continues to evolve.