Youth Ministries (B.A.)

Program Overview

The major in Youth Ministries prepares women and men for entry-level positions in congregational and para-church youth ministries. The major incorporates critical practical elements built on a robust foundation in biblical and theological reflection. Critical thinking and oral and written communication skills are also stressed. This program can also serve as a foundation for further education in a seminary setting.

In addition to meeting the major’s curricular requirements, all Youth Ministries majors are required to participate in the Department’s Fitness for Ministry program — cocurricular activities and expectations that assess and increase students’ fitness to pursue careers in Christian ministry. Program requirements include mandatory participation in spiritual formation groups during the sophomore and senior years, and the development and maintenance of a ministry portfolio that will be reviewed regularly by department faculty members. For more information on the Fitness for Ministry program, visit the Department website.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates from Messiah’s Youth Ministry program:

1. Understand the foundational content of Biblical and Religious Studies:
   1. Know the basic contents and major themes of the Old and New Testaments.
   2. Recognize the historical backgrounds and contexts of the biblical writings.
   3. Recognize historical development of Christian doctrine, practice, and theological reflection.
2. Describe basic theologies and practices of Christian spirituality.
3. Develop a practical foundation for sustainable youth ministry.
4. Demonstrate proficient writing for Youth Ministry.
5. Develop academic skills necessary for interpreting and applying the biblical text.
6. Develop skills for constructing and evaluating theological arguments.
7. Demonstrate competency in teaching in ministry.
8. Develop intercultural and contextual awareness by engaging the complex history and legacy of Christianity, including colonialism and white supremacy.
9. Articulate the connections between Christian faith commitments and the academic study of faith and/or youth ministry.
10. Develop competencies for youth ministry through practical ministry experience:
    1. Complete a 150-hour practicum experience in an approved ministry setting
    2. Reflect on one’s practicum experience in light of theories of ministry
    3. Evaluate one’s gifts, strengths, and limitations with respect to a particular youth ministry context
11.  Discover employment, voluntary service, and/or graduate opportunities in their chosen discipline. 

Major Requirements

Complete the following for your major:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

Three credits from the following:

QuEST Requirements