Bachelor of Arts in Youth, Children, and Family Ministries

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me." If you’re ready to help lead them there, Northwest University can help, offering 80 years of experience in equipping leaders for effective ministry. NU’s youth, children, and family ministries program combines academic excellence with pastoral training and hands-on experience in local churches to prepare you for vocational ministry. When you graduate, you’ll be ready to influence children’s lives in a way that has eternal impact.

Why Youth, Children, and Family Ministries at NU?

  • Benefit from relevant classes taught by a team of nationally recognized children’s ministers.
  • Gain a solid foundation in biblical and theological studies while also developing the leadership and organizational skills essential to effective children’s ministry.
  • Put your education into practice through hands-on volunteer and internship opportunities at local churches and nonprofits.
  • Take advantage of regional networking opportunities and attend local events—all built into the curriculum.

Internship Opportunities

  • Westgate Chapel
  • The Grove Church
  • New Life Church
  • Other local churches

Common Career Paths

A degree from NU can help you launch your career immediately after graduation. Some of the positions that a degree in Youth, Children, and Family Ministries can open up for you include:

  • Youth Pastor
  • Children’s Pastor
  • Family Life Pastor
  • Discipleship Ministry Leader
  • Church Volunteer Coordinator

Word from the College of Ministry

“The children’s ministry major at NU is an excellent choice for those who feel called to serve some of the youngest members of our churches. Our program equips students in theory and practice and provides numerous ways for them to engage with both. We are blessed to have a close relationship with the Northwest Ministry Network and professors with current and past ministry experience. Students choosing this major will be well trained and educated in their discipline and have numerous ministry and employment opportunities open to them—both while in school and upon graduation.”

Dr. Joshua Ziefle

Dean, College of Ministry

View Course Descriptions

You can explore program details such as course descriptions and graduation requirements for this program in our academic catalog.

Go to the Catalog