Program Overview
Asbury University’s Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Youth Ministry degree program elevates the study of how various models of ministry and mentorship influence the developmental journey of youth.
With a balanced curriculum rooted in theological reflection, our youth ministry degree equips undergraduates to engage the cultural systems affecting the next generation. As a youth ministry major, you’ll develop a consistent and holistic approach to evangelism, discipleship, recreation and counseling that empowers you to guide faith communities to value and work with youth through their journey.
If you feel called to assist young people to grow into fully committed followers of Jesus Christ and seek a college degree that will challenge you to think critically, solve problems and be creative in your vocation, Asbury’s youth ministry program could be your home.
At Asbury, we believe young people can be great, Christ-like leaders in their churches and communities now. The Youth Ministry program helps students to study and value youth cultures, discover where God is at work, ground ministry in Scripture and theology, and innovate programs that will care for young people and their families. Asbury equips students with an adaptable approach to youth ministry where students actively engage in youth ministry settings through practicums and internship opportunities.
The Christian Studies and Philosophy Department nurtures strong partnerships with youth ministry leaders and employers from around the world and most denominations, including:
Along with benefits such as reduced fees for national and regional youth ministry conferences, Asbury youth ministry majors can access unique networking, travel abroad and mission opportunities that build a valuable portfolio of experience to assist them in their endeavors to follow God’s call after graduation.
A dedication to experiential learning allows students pursuing the youth ministry degree the facilities and room to help others through teaching and mentoring in professional settings while earning internship and course credits.
If you’re moved to create connections in your community or continue evolving the ministries you have bonds to, Asbury is the place to do it.
Explore Asbury’s opportunities for leadership and service, including community outreach.
If you’re interested in studying and engaging with youth ministries abroad, learn about our Cross-Cultural Engagement programs and study abroad programs.
One size does not fit all youth ministries. Asbury University’s uniquely adaptable youth ministry curriculum allows you to choose Biblical Theology, Educational Ministries, Youth Ministries and Christian Ministries courses that serve your interests and the varying needs of young people.
We recognize the rapidly changing and globalized youth environment of today. Students in the youth ministry program are supplied with the tools to create and progress ministries that fit any context.
Students earning the youth ministry bachelor’s degree take courses in their major in addition to a general education curriculum. Introducing a range of core concepts in youth development, teaching and mentoring practices and organizational leadership strategies, core youth ministry courses include:
The curriculum offers flexibility for students to choose the courses they take in some focus areas as well as implement the skills they learn in actual ministry settings.
We believe ministry is learned outside, as well as inside, the classroom. Students have great opportunities to gain youth ministry experience through practicums, internships, and serving in local churches. Asbury’s network of alumni in ministry covers the globe and helps provide youth ministry students with an almost limitless variety of internship and future job opportunities.
A bachelor’s degree in ministry specializing in youth populations can launch career opportunities inside and outside of church and parachurch organizations as well as provide a foundation for further study and work in ministry and youth organizations.
Graduates of Asbury’s youth ministry major have found rewarding vocations in settings such as:
Youth ministry students are also prepared to pursue pathways to advanced ministry leadership and youth pastor roles through earning graduate degrees in ministry at accredited seminaries or divinity schools.
admissions@asbury.edu
(859) 858-5000