Pathways
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Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Development - Youth Leadership Major

Four Year Degree Program - 120 credit hours

This major is designed to prepare the student to disciple and nurture young people in the 21st century. This newly revised program equips students to provide leadership in youth ministry initially, but also to be able to grow into other leadership roles over time. There is much more to leading youth ministry than just knowing your Bible and being able to preach/teach young people – although those are important aspects.

Effective youth ministry involves leading a team of people to impact young people in a variety of different ways and events. This program equips students with a solid knowledge of the Bible and how to properly understand it as well as develop their understanding and skills in leadership and their spiritual character. In addition, students have the opportunity to gain experience through a one-year practicum and to be mentored by current youth leaders who understand how to develop other leaders and teach them how to live life as a youth pastor.

Field Education units are an integral part of this program. The student observes and experiences various ministries in the first year and then gets involved in increasing levels of leadership during their second and third years all while being mentored. This real-world experience prepares them for the final year where they serve in ministry at least half-time for the full year and get a complete experience in pastoral leadership – again with a mentor to guide them through the journey.

Course Requirements:

Biblical and Theological Studies (36 credit hours)

Biblical Studies (24 credits)

Theological Studies (6 credits)

Christian Spirituality (6 credits)

General Arts (36 credit hours)

Professional Studies (45 credit hours)

Core Leadership Courses (21 credits)

Youth Leadership Specialization (24 credits)

Electives (3 credit hours)

Profile of a Graduating Student

A graduating student will:

  • understand and have an appreciation for the central doctrines of the Christian faith and an ability to articulate them clearly;
  • sense the urgency of the biblical imperative to disciple youth leaders, parents and teenagers in their relationship with Jesus;
  • formulate a biblical philosophy of youth ministry enabling the student to critically evaluate and apply various models of youth ministry as required;
  • give evidence of suitable character with respect to ministry;
  • give evidence of ministry passion, gifting, calling and relational skills;
  • demonstrate realistic understanding of the personal and professional life of a pastor;
  • acquire evident personal knowledge and skills of leadership;
  • acquire an understanding of biblical education which can be adapted to the needs and characteristics of adolescents within the changing North American subculture;
  • exhibit effective formal and informal communication skills with adolescents;
  • exercise counseling skills related to the specific needs of youth and parents within our current culture.

Career Path Options

Graduates are prepared to serve as full-time youth pastors in a local church, with para-church organizations such as Youth for Christ, Young Life, Campus Crusade for Christ.

Future Education Possibilities

This degree program provides students with a foundation for the pursuit of graduate studies in a variety of Christian fields.

We want to share with you our excitement for a new way of learning at Rocky Mountain College.

Pathways is our new “distributed learning” model. It is taking our classroom courses out of the box, and down the road to where you are.

With our focus on discipleship, leadership and social care, Pathways now enables students, professionals, and life-long learners, to take advantage of our programs and courses no matter where they are.

Courses are available to Anyone. Anywhere. Anytime. Often times God speaks to us and we yearn for a richer life. But obstacles appear.

Pathways is about removing obstacles and allowing access to quality learning experiences. We foster changed lives both locally and globally.

It is our hope that we can show you a new pathway to learning, ministry and a richer, more meaningful life. Thank you for exploring RMC’s Pathways program.

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