Huntington University is the accredited degree-granting institution, giving academic credit in exchange for graduate-level work. The Youth Ministry Leadership Program received accreditation in July, 2006. Youth Specialties is offering a key annual venue for meeting through the National Youth Workers’ Convention and benefits from the 1st chance to publish work that may added to the body of knowledge in youth ministry.

42 credit hours, from twelve 3-hour courses, a 2-hour mentoring experience and a 4-hour culmination research project sponsored by one of the faculty.

Each course is 12 weeks in length. We begin with online communication, learning activities and fellowship. Three days of intense, meaningful class time will follow, giving students and faculty the opportunity to meet, discuss, debate and theorize on relevant topics. The remaining coursework and research activity will be facilitated through online interaction.

Three curricular themes guide a growing collection of courses that may be selected: Professional Leadership & Expertise (within the field of youth ministry), Theological Faithfulness and Adolescent Specialization.

Graduates of the program will be prepared to influence the practice of youth ministry by (a) expanding their vision for leadership through youth ministry, (b) unleashing the potential of their own spiritual formation, (c) networking with others in a way that combines integrity and efficacy, (d) contributing to youth ministry’s body of knowledge through the dissemination of original research, and (e) coaching others toward ministry faithfulness and effectiveness.