PBU Youth Ministries Program - Frequently Asked Questions

Q- What degree will I earn?	A- Students who successfully complete all the requirements in the youth ministry program will receive a Bachelor of Science in Bible degree with a major in Youth Ministries. We strongly believe that what youth workers need most to be effective in ministry is a strong understanding of the Bible. For this reason, we have chosen to center our program around the Word of God. Some other youth ministry programs may offer a degree in youth ministry, but often their Bible content is weak. Many churches and para-church organizations come to PBU to look for full time youthworkers because they know that our students know the Word of God. (Return to top of Page)
Q- Is it possible to make a living as a youth pastor?	A- Youth Ministry has changed over the past two decades. One of the most positive changes is that more and more ministries are understanding the need for well trained youthworkers to lead the youth. For this reason, there has been an increase in the number of positions available as well as in the salaries and benefits that are offered. Many youthworkers are employed full time and plan to continue in this field for a lifetime. However, one clarification is necessary. Ministry is a privilege, it is not a job. It is our opinion that taking a full time position in ministry means that the organization has agreed to provide for the person's needs so that he/she can use all of his/her time to serve the Lord. Because of this conviction, we do not talk about Youth Ministry as one would talk about an ordinary job. One does not select a ministry based upon the salary package or benefits. We encourage our students to follow the living Christ and His direction. (Return to top of Page)
Q- What is your placement record?	A- We have an excellent placement record. Over the past several years, nearly 100% of our graduates who were looking for a youth position upon graduation, found a position. The truth is that there is a shortage of youthworkers. The worldwide need for trained youthworkers is staggering. Consider the fact that in many countries, the majority of the population is under the age of 25. In these countries there are almost no qualified youthworkers. It is our deep passion and concern to produce youthworkers who are completely given to Christ, so that they can be used to reach a whole world of teenagers for His glory. (Return to top of Page)
Q- Is it really necessary to study Youth Ministries?	A- Ministry to teenagers has become a very specialized field. Youth Ministry is no longer just "playing with the kids." It is expected that Youthworkers will be competent to train an adult volunteer team, to minister effectively to parents and other family members, to work as part of a staff team, and to strategically reach and train teenagers. Youth Ministry training is vitally important. When a child is sick, parents will take their child to the pediatrician. This is a doctor who specializes in the healing of children. In the same way, the church of Jesus Christ needs to stop looking down upon youth workers and recognize that their expertise is a valuable treasure. How can we afford to NOT train men and women to specialize in the needs of these very influencial and responsive group of people? Some youthworkers have had no formal training and they are doing a great job, but they would be the first ones to tell you that effective training in Youth Ministry would have added to their effectiveness. (Return to top of Page)
Q- What is the place of women in Youth Ministry?	A- There are contrasting opinions as to the role of women in the church. No matter which view one holds, both sides would agreed that there is a desperate need for well trained women in Youth Ministry. Many churches, para-church organizations, and missions agencies are recruiting women who are trained in Youth Ministry. Some larger youth ministries are hiring women as the second or third full time staff in order to more effectively disciple the females in the group. (Return to top of Page)