Bachelor of Science in Youth Ministries
Empower Future Leaders with Liberty’s Bachelor’s Degree in Youth Ministry
At Liberty University, our Bachelor of Science (BS) in Youth Ministry is more than just an academic program – it’s a calling. This comprehensive degree is designed for those passionate about impacting young people’s lives through Jesus Christ’s teachings. By enrolling in this program, you’re taking a step towards becoming a guiding light in youth’s spiritual and personal development in churches, communities, and beyond.
Young people have a unique set of physical, mental, and spiritual needs. And we want to help equip you to meet those needs and positively affect their lives. Inspiring young people to serve God and live their best lives is one of the most impactful ways to influence the future.
Our curriculum combines rigorous academic training with real-world practical experience, helping to ensure that you graduate with a variety of tools to meet some of the challenges of modern youth ministry. You can delve into the essentials of biblical studies, understand the complexities of adolescent development, and study effective strategies for youth counseling and mentorship. This blend of theory and practice can help enable you to connect deeply with young people, helping them navigate the intricacies of their faith journey.
At Liberty, we’re dedicated to providing an education that can help prepare you to make a meaningful impact in the world for Christ. Join us in our mission to train leaders who are committed to serving youth with integrity, compassion, and a deep understanding of the Christian faith. Enroll as a youth ministry major today and take the first steps toward your goals.
Credit Hours
View CoursesNext start date: Aug 18, 2025
Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC
Highlights
Highlights of Our BS in Youth Ministries Degree
Rooted in Scripture, Led by Scholars
At the John W. Rawlings School of Divinity, professors are actively engaged in both the classroom and in research – publishing original works and contributing to the broader field of theology.
Our school is firmly committed to the authority of Scripture and conservative evangelical theology, providing a strong foundation for your faith and future.
Personalized Education with University Support
Experience the best of both worlds – the close mentorship and engagement typical of a small Bible college, paired with the extensive resources, facilities, and opportunities of a major university.
Global Ministry Preparation
Gain hands-on experience through internship opportunities with churches and parachurch organizations locally, nationally, and globally – helping you gain practical skills for effective ministry in any context.
Exceptional Facilities and Timeless Resources
Located in the Freedom Tower, the School of Divinity features a 7-projector immersive classroom, a teleconferencing-enabled interactive space, and a state-of-the-art homiletics teaching lab.
You’ll also have access to the Rawlings Foundation’s rare book collection – valued at over $1 million – which includes a 111-foot-long Torah scroll from the 16th century and a functioning replica of the Gutenberg Printing Press.
Career Potential
What Can You Do with a BS in Youth Ministries Degree?
Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science in Youth Ministries can help prepare you to pursue the following occupations:
- Associate pastor
- Children’s pastor/director
- Church administrator
- College ministry pastor/director
- Girls ministry associate
- Ministry associate
- Next-generation pastor
- Parachurch leader
- Youth camp director
- Youth ministry director
- Youth pastor
#4 Best College Campus in America
At Liberty, you’ll find an affordable, high-quality education designed to help equip students like you for the real world. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as the #4 Best College Campus in America by Niche.com.
Earning your degree from a nonprofit university with state-of-the-art resources like ours can help set you apart from your peers.
Courses
What Will You Study in Our Youth Ministries Bachelor’s Degree?
As you study in the John W. Rawlings School of Divinity, you can receive training to enter into youth ministry. Your journey begins with a solid foundation in biblical studies. You will delve into the scriptures, studying how to interpret and understand the Bible’s teachings critically.
This deep exploration can help enhance your biblical knowledge and strengthen your ability to apply these teachings in a modern context. Your studies will cover various aspects of theology and church history, helping to ensure that you have a well-rounded understanding of Christian doctrine.
In addition to theological knowledge, you can gain practical skills essential for youth ministry. Courses in adolescent crisis can help you understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with ministering to young people.
You can study how to create engaging programs and activities that resonate with today’s youth, fostering an environment where they can grow in their faith. Communication skills, discipleship techniques, and leadership training are integral to the curriculum, helping to equip you with skills to connect with and guide young people.
As you progress through your journey, the required practicums and internships integrated into your youth ministry education program are invaluable in shaping your path to becoming a youth minister. In these hands-on courses, you’ll be immersed in real-world scenarios where the theoretical knowledge you’ve acquired in the classroom comes to life and gives you hands-on ministry experience.
You can study the nuances of engaging with young people from diverse backgrounds and developing communication and leadership skills. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to observe and participate in the day-to-day operations of youth ministry, allowing you to hone your leadership abilities and understand the practical challenges and triumphs of this vocation. Through this direct exposure, you can gain insights that are crucial in shaping your approach and style as an aspiring youth minister, helping to prepare you for a career in this rewarding field.
Featured Bachelor’s in Youth Ministries Courses
YOUT 201 – Survey of Youth Ministries
YOUT 310 – Strategies for Student Outreach
YOUT 448 – Contemporary Youth Communication
YOUT 460 – Programs for Youth Ministry
Degree Information
- This program falls under the John W. Rawlings School of Divinity
- View the Degree Completion Plan
- Check out our course catalog
- Transfer in up to 75% of the degree total
BENEFITS
Why Choose Liberty for Your Youth Ministries Bachelor’s Degree?
Helping You Influence the Next Generation
We believe that the future lies in the hands of young people. So, we want to help give you tools to change the future by influencing our youth. Our unique youth ministries degree is designed to give you resources and experience to help you work toward this goal.
Professors Who Teach and Mentor
As a teaching university, our professors – who bring both academic training and years of ministry experience – are in the classroom with you every week. They are committed to teaching, mentoring, and walking alongside you throughout your academic and spiritual journey.
Real-World Experience That Helps Prepare You for Ministry
Experience matters when working with youth. That’s why we’ve partnered with churches, parachurches, and nonprofit organizations to connect you with internship opportunities that match your calling – giving you hands-on training that helps to prepare you for a lifetime of ministry.
A Mission Rooted in the Gospel
At the core of our Youth Ministries program is an unwavering commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Every class, project, and practical experience is designed to help you grow in faith and prepare to lead others. At Liberty, you’re not just earning a degree – you’re joining a mission to impact the world through faithful service.
Admissions
How Do You Become a Youth Ministries Bachelor’s Student?
Every application is reviewed by the admission committee on a case-by-case basis, meaning there are no set minimums for acceptance. However, all applicants must submit the following documents* for admission:
- Admission application
- Official high school transcripts
- Official college transcripts (if applicable)
- Admission essay
Results from the CLT, SAT, or ACT are not required for admission, but may be used in consideration for merit-based aid.
*Note that additional documentation may be requested by the admission committee after your application has been received.
Have Questions?
We’ll make sure you have the information you need to take your next step.