Youth and Family Ministries Major
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Youth and Family Ministries Major
Study Youth and Family Ministries at Azusa Pacific University
You’ll develop a personal philosophy of ministry based on your unique calling and engage in a real-world ministry internship, leaving APU prepared with the tools and experience needed to successfully lead youth and their families. You’ll be ready to meet the need for vibrant, compassionate leaders of young people as they navigate the turbulent waters of today’s society—speaking the truth of Jesus into their lives.
Program at a Glance
The School of Theology at Azusa Pacific University trains students for effective ministry in the church and around the world through practical programs in a supportive Christ-centered community.
Application Deadline
- The admission requirements for your youth and family ministries major will vary depending upon your status as a first time freshman, transfer, or international student.
Gain Hands-on Experience
- Build your résumé through a real-world ministry internship.
- Develop knowledge about the Bible and ministry practices.
- Be inspired by passionate faculty-mentors with years of ministry experience.
- Deepen your understanding of adolescent development and youth culture.
- Help young people become who God made them to be.
By the Numbers
Get Started
Jessica Carnahan ’19 deepened her love for others, from all walks of life, during her time as a youth and ministries major at APU.
Program Details
The youth and family ministries major trains, equips, and educates students to effectively reach and minister to adolescents in an increasingly diverse global context. This major is built upon the premise that effective youth work requires the youth worker to be a student of God’s Word, culture, and adolescence. Upon completion of this Bachelor of Arts in Youth and Family Ministries, students are equipped to step into youth and family ministry contexts and/or graduate programs.
Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.
General Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Select an option below:
Practical Theology Covenant
When students declare one of the majors in the Department of Practical Theology, they commit to participate in a community narrative that begins with the signing of a Community Covenant based on the biblical model of faithfulness and mercy. The covenant includes a commitment to integrity, appropriate conduct, local church ministry, academic and university requirements, a submission of references, and participation in required department activities. The covenant must be submitted to the Department of Practical Theology when the youth ministry degree is declared.
Although a private college education may seem out of reach for many, recent research from Kiplinger reveals that the actual value of some private universities may prove this assumption wrong. In 2010, Kiplinger selected Azusa Pacific University for its Top 100 Best Values in Private Colleges rankings. Read more about APU’s ranking in Kiplinger’s Best Values in Private Colleges.
APU students may take advantage of three types of financial aid: scholarships and grants, education loans, and student employment.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are considered “gift aid” and do not require repayment. They can come from federal, state, or private sources. Scholarships are typically merit-based, meaning they are awarded depending on demonstrated academic ability or other specific talents.
Scholarships are often available from sources outside of APU. You can search for these scholarships through websites such as finaid.org or fastweb.com. The Student Services Center is sometimes notified of scholarships available through APU departments or local organizations, and can provide information about any available scholarships on request.
Education Loans
Education loans are usually repaid after graduation, may be deferred until after graduate school, and often have very low interest rates.
Military Benefits
Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for financial assistance covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.
Student Employment
On-campus student employment is available for students needing additional income to pay for education-related expenses. APU students also find work off campus in the surrounding community.
Net Price Calculator
We’re committed to helping families understand early in the college search process the value of the APU experience, and options for affordable financing of a top-tier Christian university education.
Now that you’re familiar with the financial aid opportunities available to APU students, it’s time to estimate what your true cost may be to attend Azusa Pacific. Remember, estimations are only as accurate as the information you provide. Click on the Net Price Calculator button below to begin.
Net Price Calculator
To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:
Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Career Outlooks and Outcomes
Featured Faculty
Matthew Elofson
Interim Dean, School of Theology, Chair and Professor, Department of Practical Theology
Jennifer Buck
Program Director, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Associate Professor, Department of Practical Theology
Andrea Vaudrey
Adjunct Professor, Department of Practical Theology
APU Receives $5 Million Lilly Endowment Grant in Partnership with LPU and LABI
APU received a $5 million grant from the Lilly Endowment in partnership with Life Pacific University and the Latin American Bible Institute that will strengthen pathways for theological education for Hispanic students.