Bachelor of Science in

Youth Ministry, Family & Culture

Reach the Next Generation

Are you interested in making a meaningful impact on the next generation and their families? If so, a degree in Youth Ministry, Family & Culture in Columbia International University may be the perfect choice for you.

Our program equips students to connect relationally with both churched and non-churched youth and families, while also providing the tools needed to disciple others. Our faculty members have extensive experience working in youth and family ministry, and bring their real-world insights into the classroom. You’ll learn how to navigate contemporary issues affecting family life and culture, and gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively reach the next generation for Christ. By pursuing a degree in Youth Ministry, Family & Culture, you’ll be putting yourself at the heart of God’s plan to minister to children, youth and families in any culture around the world. With a focus on practical, hands-on learning, you’ll be well-prepared for a career in youth and family ministry, or for further studies in divinity or theology. Join us at CIU and make a lasting impact on the lives of young people and families in your community and beyond.

Location

Campus

Next Start

January 3, 2025

Credit Hours

120

College

College of Arts & Sciences

Accreditation

ABHE, SACSCOC

Career Opportunities

  • Youth/Student Ministry Pastor or Director
  • Children’s Pastor/Director (AWANA)
  • College Pastor/Director
  • Family Pastor
  • Director of Christian Discipleship
  • International Youth Worker/Missionary (e.g., Samaritan’s Purse, Compassion International, YWAM, Josiah Venture, JAARS)
  • Para-Church Youth Worker (Young Life, Youth for Christ, FCA)
  • Camp/Retreat Director or Program Director
  • Staff at Residential Programs for At-Risk Youth
  • Community Outreach Center Director/Staff
  • Military Base Youth Worker/Minister
  • Youth Ministry Curriculum Developer
  • Director of a Youth-Focused Nonprofit Organization
  • Inner City or Urban Youth Worker
  • Itinerant Youth Speaker
  • Preparation for graduate school

A Comprehensive Approach

The Youth Ministry program at CIU offers a comprehensive approach to training students in the biblical knowledge and strategic skills needed to serve effectively as leaders and mentors for young people and their families.

The Right Choice

Small class sizes, practical and experiential assignments, and a major that feels like family makes CIU the right choice for studying youth ministry.

A Deep Understanding

With a deep understanding of contemporary issues affecting family life and culture, theological concepts of ministry and practical skills in youth and family services, graduates of this program are well-prepared to serve as leaders and influencers in the world of youth ministry and family services.

Meet the Faculty

Course Preview

In addition to the undergraduate core and other related courses, here is a glimpse at a few of the courses you will be taking in this program.

For a full list of courses related to this program, visit the Academic Catalog at one of the options below:

YOU 2110 Foundations of Youth Ministry

This course is an introduction to the study and profession of youth ministry. You will study the history, development, and fundamentals of ministering to youth in the church and other para-church organizations. An overview of adolescent development and a survey of careers in youth ministry will be included.

YOU 3410 Evangelizing & Discipling Youth

This course equips you in the principles and practice of discipling a young person to know God and make Him known. It provides a specific look at adolescent Christian life as it pertains to the facilitation of maturing leaders in youth organizations. You will review various models, strategies, and programs that target teens and collegians in a ministry of disciple-making.

YOU 4310 Strategies for Effective Youth & Family Ministry

You will explore a variety of models and strategies, past/present, for leading effective ministry to youth and their families. You will examine the challenges and opportunities of doing ministry in a post-Christian world.

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You may also be interested in these other similar degree programs:

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