What is the Best Seminary Program for a Youth Pastor?

Now, more than ever, the church needs youth pastors with theological depth, godly character, and biblical competency. While seminary is not the only path to developing well-equipped youth pastors, it can certainly prove fruitful for those seeking to deepen their wells of theological and ministerial wisdom. However, pursuing a seminary education while balancing the demands of work, family, and other commitments can be a daunting task.

Thankfully, many seminaries like Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) have developed innovative programs aimed at meeting the needs of current and aspiring youth workers. Choosing the right seminary program helps ensure the seamless integration of academic pursuits with existing responsibilities. With a variety of programs available, there are a couple of important factors to consider when choosing a seminary program as a youth pastor.

Identify Your Goals

Before diving headfirst into a graduate program, thoughtfully consider what you hope to gain from a seminary education. Start by identifying areas in need of further development. Then, discern which programs would be the best fit to strengthen you in those areas.

Set Your Pace

Realistically assess how your circumstances and desired graduation date will affect your education when choosing a seminary program. For example, if you are serving as a full-time youth pastor with a wife and two kids and you know that you can only take one class per semester, then you may want to pursue the MA Theological Studies or MA Educational ministries.

If you enjoy your studies and want to pursue them further, you can transfer into the MDiv program. With our new 8-week course model beginning in the fall, the MDiv could be completed in 7 years, one class at a time.

While some youth pastors may be in no rush to graduate, the prospect of staying in school for an additional five to ten years could be unappealing to others. Finances should similarly be taken into account, as some programs may be more budget-friendly than others. Some programs may be offered online while others are exclusively residential.

Once an aspiring or current youth worker has prayerfully thought through his or her educational goals and present circumstances, he or she can begin to closely look at specific seminary programs.

Master of Divinity

If you have the capacity, the Master of Divinity (MDiv) is ideal for the youth worker looking for the most comprehensive seminary training at the master’s level. The MDiv includes courses in biblical studies, theological studies, church history, worldview development, practical ministry, and more.

Due to its breadth, the MDiv is also the largest master’s degree offered at TEDS, spanning ninety hours in its standard format. Qualifying students can also apply for the Advanced Placement MDiv, which includes seventy-two hours of coursework.

Master of Arts

Individuals who are seeking a shorter and more concentrated seminary education may be best suited for a Master of Arts (MA). TEDS offers a handful of MA programs that would prove fruitful for youth workers, ranging from Systematic Theology to the New Testament. Because MA programs are more specialized than the MDiv, students can better focus on specific growth areas while spending less time and money on schooling. Most TEDS MA programs consist of thirty-six credit hours and can be completed in one and a half years.

Certificate Programs

If you’re not looking to spend substantial time and money on schooling, TEDS offers a wide variety of twelve-hour certificate programs. A certificate program consists of a specialized curriculum, allowing students to grow in the area of their choice under leading academic voices and practitioners.