At Hope, the Youth and Family Ministry major teaches students to effectively minister to youth and families in today's rapidly changing culture. Coupled with a strong Bible curriculum, this program teaches students to be students of cultural, technological, psychosocial, and developmental trends that will help them develop an effective ministry in any setting. Graduates will have a solid foundation for ministry in the local church, para-church ministries, as well as preparation for graduate studies in a variety of theological and ministry related fields.
The B.A. in Youth & Family Ministry program is 126 units.
Students in the Youth and Family major are required to do a minimum of three semesters of internship in a youth or family ministry setting. There are wonderful opportunities to work with and network with a variety of professionals in the field of youth and family ministry and numerous internship opportunities available in local church settings. Students are encouraged to be involved in ministry settings during their degree program to help facilitate real life application.
1. To have a solid understanding of Christian scriptures, this is key to a Christian’s faith
At Hope International University we firmly believe that a healthy theology will lead to a healthy ministry. We want to help you take the right actions for the right reasons.
2. To serve the church in the highest capacity
Biblically, the church serves in very significant roles as the bride of Christ, the body of Christ, and the family of God. This means that our service to the church deserves our best representation. This is why when you receive your degree in Youth and Family Ministry our professors believe that you should receive the best training available in order to rightly pursue your calling.
3. To help other people serve the church and promote the priesthood of all believers
Pastors are not to do all of the ministry. At HIU we believe that we are not training up leaders to do all of the work. Instead it is our desire to build up leaders who can inspire and train all members of the church to serve God, the world, and one another.
4. Have a passion for preaching and teaching in the local church. Even if it is not in your role as a pastor
Faith comes from hearing and hearing from the Word of God! The church needs dedicated, trained, competent communicators of scripture. As someone who graduates with a ministry and biblical studies major you will have completed extensive training – both theory and practice – in the area of teaching and preaching the Word of God.
5. Have an opportunity for a life in scholarship and University/Seminary teaching
When you graduate with a degree in Youth and Family Ministry, you will have the opportunity to decide to continue your academic pursuits and go on to receive a master’s and a doctorate in a biblical/ministry related field. The foundation for the pursuit of advanced biblical and pastoral studies begins in Hope International University.
