Youth and Family Ministry Program Highlights
The Youth and Family Ministry (BA) program at Mount Vernon Nazarene University emphasizes practical, real-world ministry experience alongside classroom learning. Students are actively involved in local church settings where they apply what they learn through internships, service opportunities, and ministry placements. This hands-on approach helps students develop confidence in leading youth, children, and families while being mentored by experienced faculty who are also active in ministry.
Faith is central to the Youth and Family Ministry program, shaping both academic study and personal development. At MVNU, students engage scripture, prayer, and theological reflection as part of their everyday learning experience. Courses are designed by accomplished practitioners and scholars to connect biblical truth with real-life ministry challenges, encouraging students to grow spiritually while preparing for leadership in the church. This Christ-centered approach ensures that faith is not separate from learning but woven into everything students do.
Our travel and study-afar programs let you grow in your faith while experiencing new cultures. Through serving in communities across the U.S. or abroad, you’ll deepen your compassion, explore your callings, and gain meaningful experience for your résumé.
Why Choose MVNU
Students in the Youth and Family Ministry program at MVNU can expect a supportive, Christ-focused community that prepares them for meaningful ministry with children, teens, and families. The program combines strong academic foundations with practical training, mentorship from experienced faculty, and opportunities for service in real ministry contexts. Graduates are equipped to step into roles such as youth pastor, children’s pastor, or family ministry leader, or to continue their education for further ministry preparation
Course Descriptions
Browse the course descriptions to explore your program’s classes.
Financial Aid & Costs
Discover the financial aid opportunities available to help make an MVNU education affordable.
Student Support
The Center for Student Success helps you build skills and succeed academically.
Meet Our Youth and Family Ministry Faculty
Learn from faculty members who know how to balance theory and practical application for a relevant, empowering, Christ-centered learning experience.
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What Can You Do With A Youth and Family Ministry Degree?
The Christian Ministry major with a concentration in Youth and Family Ministry at MVNU provides excellent preparation for those intending to serve in local church ministry as youth pastors, children’s pastors, or family ministry pastors. The program also provides a strong foundation for students who plan to pursue further education in seminary or other graduate school programs, equipping them for both immediate ministry and long-term vocational growth.
Graduates may pursue roles such as:
- Youth Pastor
- Children’s Pastor
- Family Ministry Pastor
- Associate Pastor (Next Generation or Family Ministry focus)
- Camp or Retreat Director
- Parachurch Youth Ministry Leader
- Church Discipleship or Education Director
- Missionary or Cross-Cultural Ministry Worker
- Seminary or Graduate School Student
- Nonprofit or Faith-Based Organization Leader
Did you know MVNU offers online degree programs? After graduating with your undergraduate degree, you can continue your education with a 100% online master’s or doctoral program.
Check these majors out, too
Religion
Explore deeper facets of your own faith as you learn more about the faith of others through a Christ-centered lens.
Elementary Education/Elementary Intervention (P-5)
Share knowledge with future generations and ensure equal learning opportunities for children with our on-campus program.
Christian Ministry
Provide pastoral care and leadership in a wide variety of organizational settings and ministry positions.
Still exploring your options? Discover all the undergraduate majors available at MVNU and find the program that fits your passions and goals.