Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Development Youth Leadership Major

Four Year Degree Program - 120 credit hours

This major is designed to prepare the student to disciple and nurture young people in the 21st century. This newly revised program equips students to provide leadership in youth ministry initially, but also to be able to grow into other leadership roles over time. There is much more to leading youth ministry than just knowing your Bible and being able to preach/teach young people -- although those are important aspects. Effective youth ministry involves leading a team of people to impact young people in a variety of different ways and events. This program equips students with a solid knowledge of the Bible and how to properly understand it as well as develop their understanding and skills in leadership and their spiritual character. In addition, students will have the opportunity to gain experience through a one-year practicum and to be mentored by current youth leaders who understand how to develop other leaders and teach them how to live life as a youth pastor.

Course Requirements

Field Education units are an integral part of this program.  The student observes and experiences various ministries in the first year and then gets involved in increasing levels of leadership during their second and third years all while being mentored. This real-world experience prepares them for the final year where they will serve in ministry at least half-time for the full year and get a complete experience in pastoral leadership -- again with a mentor to guide them through the journey.

Profile of a Graduating Student

A graduating student will:

  • understand and have an appreciation for the central doctrines of the Christian faith and an ability to articulate them clearly
  • sense the urgency of the biblical imperative to disciple youth leaders, parents and teenagers in their relationship with Jesus
  • formulate a biblical philosophy of youth ministry enabling the student to critically evaluate and apply various models of youth ministry as required
  • give evidence of suitable character with respect to minstry
  • give evidence of ministry passion, gifting, calling and relational skills
  • demonstrate realistic understanding of the personal and professional life of a pastor
  • acquire evident personal knowledge and skills of leadership
  • acquire an understanding of biblical education which can be adapted to the needs and characteristics of adolescents within the changing North American subculture
  • exhibit effective formal and informal communication skills with adolescents
  • exercise counselling skills related to the specific needs of youth and parents within our current culture.

Career Path Options

Graduates will be prepared to serve as full-time youth pastors in a local church, with para–church organizations such as Youth for Christ, Young Life, Campus Crusade for Christ.

Future Education Possibilities

This degree program will provide students with a foundation for the pursuit of graduate studies in a variety of Christian fields.

Course Requirements

Biblical and Theological Studies (36 credit hours)

General Arts (36 credit hours)

Professional Studies (45 credit hours)

  • Core Leadership Courses:
    • LDR100 Discipleship I (3)
    • LDR101 Discipleship II (3)
    • LDR200 Communication for Effective Leadership (3)
    • LDR300 Team Leadership Theories & Practices (3)
    • LDR320 Coaching & Mentoring for Spiritual & Professional Development (3)
    • LDR400 Issues in Current Leadership Practice (3)
  • Youth Leadership Specialization:
    • LDR411 Communication to Youth (3)
    • LDR412 Theological Foundations of Youth Leadership (3)
    • LDR413 Youth Leadership Practices (3)
    • LDR414 Adolescent Development & Counselling (3)
  • Field Education - Non credit
    • Field Ed 1 - Observation (included in Discipleship I & II)
    • Field Ed 2 - Involvement
    • Field Ed 3 - Develop leadership skills
  • Practicum
    • LDR419 Youth Leadership Practicum (12)

Electives (3 credit hours)