Online Degrees in Youth Ministry

Youth ministry is a rewarding career opportunity for those with a deep Christian faith who desire to guide middle-high school age kids in their pursuit of a closer relationship with God. Youth ministers plan activities and presentations inside and outside the church environment. They recruit teens from the community and guide them as they grow spiritually. Youth ministers are counselors, ready to help kids when needed. They plan and hold regular meetings in the church specifically for the youth.

Youth ministers should be mature Christians with a sound knowledge of the Bible. They should be sensitive to the needs of pre-teens and teenagers, and enjoy working with kids of this age group. A youth minister should be a good role model, living a highly moral life. They should be able to communicate well and enjoy public speaking.

The average salary for a youth minister is between $20,000 and $40,000 per year. The size and wealth of the employing church will largely dictate the salary, as well as education and experience of the youth minister. Youth ministry jobs tend to be more competitive in larger churches where salaries are often higher, but the overall job outlook for this field is good. Many churches are hiring professional youth ministers, and jobs can be found online, which makes the job search easier.

Christian Leadership University offers several online youth ministry programs. You can earn your degree at the associate, bachelors, masters, or doctorate level at this online institution. CLU is accredited through the Worldwide Accreditational Commission of Christian Educational Institutions. The tuition is approximately $300 per 3 credit course. The entire degree can be earned online.

Trinity College of the Bible Theological Seminary also offers an online bachelors degree in youth ministry. This college is pursuing accreditation at this time. Undergraduate tuition is $168 per credit hour. The institution reports the willingness to work with students to develop an affordable payment plan.

Nazarene Bible College is an accredited religious online college that offers a bachelors degree in youth ministry. Nazarene Bible College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

1. Nazarene Bible College: http://www.nbc.edu/information/ministry/more-information.php

2. Christian Leadership University: http://www.cluonline.com/concentrations/Youth.htm

3. Trinity College of the Bible Theological Seminary http://www.trinitysem.edu/DegreePrograms/BA.html#YM