Master of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry
focusing on ministries with children, adolescents, and families, for staff positions in congregations, outdoor ministries, and other church agencies
Academic Requirements
56 semester hours of coursework
- Theological Core Courses: 20 semester hours in biblical studies, systematic theology, church history, person in ministry, spirituality, denominational identity.
- Degree Requirement Courses: 15-19 semester hours of requirements and 1-5 semester hours of concentration electives (20 hours total).
- Elective Courses: 16 semester hours of self-selected courses of interest.
Degree Outcomes
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Youth and Family Ministry degree program at Trinity Lutheran Seminary should be able to:
- Think and act biblically and theologically, using the resources of scripture and the church’s tradition
- Read and interpret critically and accurately contexts of mission and ministry
- Articulate a vision for youth and family ministry that is appropriate to the mission of particular congregations and faithful to the gospel
- Demonstrate competence in the skills necessary for leading the youth and family ministry in the congregation
- Possess a healthy, integrated, and resilient faith, moral integrity, and capacity for appropriate interpersonal relationships
Field Experience
A minimum of 200 hours of supervised field experience completed in consultation with the program director. While most field experience is done in congregations, some may be accomplished in agencies or other relevant settings. The aim is to engage in ministry practice within the framework of academic study and theological reflection.
A full-time student may complete the degree within two years; however, many persons prefer part-time study while fully employed. Summer courses and evening classes help facilitate part-time study.
