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Youth and Family Ministries Major

Study Youth and Family Ministries at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll develop a personal philosophy of ministry based on your unique calling and engage in a real-world ministry internship, leaving APU prepared with the tools and experience needed to successfully lead youth and their families. You’ll be ready to meet the need for vibrant, compassionate leaders of young people as they navigate the turbulent waters of today’s society—speaking the truth of Jesus into their lives.

Program at a Glance

The School of Theology at Azusa Pacific University trains students for effective ministry in the Church and around the world through practical programs in a supportive Christ-centered community.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • Friday, May 9, 2026
  • Saturday, June 13, 2026
  • Saturday, July 11, 2026

Application Deadline

  • The admission requirements for your youth and family ministries major will vary depending upon your status as a first-time freshman, transfer, or international student.

Apply Now

Program Information

  • Program Units: 45

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)
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Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

Faculty socializing

Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Build your résumé through a real-world ministry internship.
  • Develop knowledge about the Bible and ministry practices.
  • Be inspired by passionate faculty mentors with years of ministry experience.
  • Deepen your understanding of adolescent development and youth culture.
  • Help young people become who God made them to be.

By the Numbers

#1 APU was ranked as the top Christian college in California in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.
10 :1 Student-to-faculty ratio
100 % of incoming students receiving financial aid

Get Started

jessica smiling

Jessica Carnahan ’19 deepened her love for others, from all walks of life, during her time as a youth and ministries major at APU.

Program Details

The youth and family ministries major trains, equips, and educates students to effectively reach and minister to adolescents in an increasingly diverse global context. This major is built upon the premise that effective youth work requires the youth worker to be a student of God’s Word, culture, and adolescence. Upon completion of this Bachelor of Arts in Youth and Family Ministries, students are equipped to step into youth and family ministry contexts and/or graduate programs.

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

Practical Theology Covenant

When students declare one of the majors in the School of Theology, they commit to participate in a community narrative that begins with the signing of a Community Covenant based on the biblical model of faithfulness and mercy. The covenant includes a commitment to integrity, appropriate conduct, local church ministry, academic and university requirements, a submission of references, and participation in required department activities. The covenant must be submitted to the School of Theology when the youth ministry degree is declared.

At Azusa Pacific University, we’re committed to making your bachelor’s degree in psychology affordable. That’s why APU provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.

While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.

Student Employment

Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Military and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!

Calculate Net Price

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Career Outlooks and Outcomes

Featured Faculty

Gregg Moder

Gregg Moder

Program Director and Professor, Practical Theology Program

Kirsten S. Oh

Kirsten S. Oh

Professor, Practical Theology

Azusa Pacific campus

APU Receives $5 Million Lilly Endowment Grant in Partnership with LPU and LABI

APU received a $5 million grant from the Lilly Endowment in partnership with Life Pacific University and the Latin American Bible Institute that will strengthen pathways for theological education for Hispanic students. 

Note: This information is current for the 2025-26 academic year, but all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current academic catalog for more information.

Related Programs

Theology Major

  • Azusa

Available Concentrations:

Church History, Systematic Theology