At a glance: Youth Ministry

Did you know? Youth ministry majors develop a greater understanding of the complex interactions of religion, history and culture.

Youth Ministry Features:
Pastoral Internhsip

The youth ministry major is designed in consultation and in cooperation with the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church and approved by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry to meet the academic requirements for undergraduate professional certification. Visit the department's web site.

Degrees offered

Youth ministry majors earn a bachelor of arts degree.

Distinctive features

The youth ministry program was developed in cooperation with the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church to prepare graduates for full-time lay ministry immediately upon graduation.

Facilities

The Wesley Center Complex consists of the Walter and Marian English Chapel and the Burgett Pavilion. The philosophy and religion department is located in the Burgett Wing of the Wesley Center. The English Chapel, which seats 375 people, contains a prayer room, two multi-purpose rooms, the office of the University chaplain and the headquarters for the student religious council. The Burgett Pavilion contains three classrooms, a conference room, a student lounge and faculty offices. The classrooms are equipped with the latest educational technologies: computers with direct Internet access, projectors and DVD players. There is wireless access to the ONU computer system and the Internet throughout the building.

Student organizations

There are a variety of religious organizations that provide opportunities for worship, fellowship, outreach and service both on and off campus. Religion students are active in student organizations related to the chapel program, such as chapel band, Northern Christian Fellowship and the Newman Club. They often serve on the chaplain’s student staff.

Youth Ministry Program Outcomes

Situate their own convictions and commitments in relation to competing context and traditions
Develop critical thinking and communication skills
Acquire a breadth and depth of knowledge in the (academic) study of religion
Acquire some depth of knowledge in sociology and psychology, especially related to developmental psychology, marriage and family, and human sexuality
Acquire knowledge of various approaches to Christian education
Develop professional skills necessary for success in youth ministry

Youth Ministry Placement

Full-time employment in congregations, graduate programs

Graduate schools

Recent youth ministry graduates have attended Princeton Theological Seminary, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Wesley Theological Seminary, Candler School of Theology and the Methodist Theological School in Ohio. Several graduates of the program have gone on to receive full-tuition scholarships to seminary, including additional funds for room, board and text books.