Grace College
Akron

Reach the
Next generation

A major in Youth Ministry through Grace College Akron will explore the ins and outs of ministering to the next generation through hands-on training. When considering the campus in Winona Lake, Indiana, or The Akron Program at Grace Church in Akron, OH, you will discover a top college for Youth Ministry taught with a biblical worldview through Grace College.

A Grace College Youth Ministry degree helps make workable connections between biblical teaching and relational ministry, with preparation to weigh questions and create conversation in a Christian college context.

This program is for students who are serious about creating an impact in a Youth Ministry career. With a bachelor’s degree in Youth Ministry, they will be required to get real-world experience, ensuring they are equipped for jobs in community services, church administration, youth leading, and countless other areas.

Students practically apply what they are learning and gain valuable leadership and ministry experience.

This program revolutionizes the way ministry training is carried out. We facilitate a unique college experience with benefits beyond that of the traditional college experience. Students are mentored and encouraged to grow and build the qualifications they will need for ministry.

Momentum EDU
Features

Momentum EDU has many unique features that set it apart from other Youth Ministry programs:

  • High-Level Bible Training
  • Extensive Internships
  • One-Week Module Classes
  • Mentoring Relationships
  • Adjunct faculty who are experts in the field of Youth Ministry
  • Opportunities to Double Major

Momentum EDU students learn how to work in a secular society to reach and disciple the young, and they graduate to be catalysts to the youth of the world.

Momentum EDU
Classes

A unique quality of Momentum EDU is the module class system. The following courses are only offered as modules and can be taken the week before the spring semester in January and one week after the spring semester in May.

  • Strategizing for Church and Campus Youth Ministry
  • Counseling and Communicating with Contemporary Youth
  • Cross Cultural Youth Ministry

These courses count as part of the regular semester even though they take place at different times and days. A person who passes the May module class receives three (3) credit hours which is added to the total of hours taken during the regular fall semester. If the student takes fourteen hours during the fall and three hours during the May module, then his/her grade report and record will show seventeen hours taken. A student could take as low as nine hours during the semester and take a three hour module and show a twelve-hour semester on the record.

By using the module program, a student can usually double major in various fields without the problem of course conflicts during the semester. It may also help those in sports, working students, and others who could use the extra time to study.

The one-week module is intensive training which is covered in forty-two contact hours. Assignments for all module courses will be communicated to the student in advance of the upcoming module. All completed assignments must be submitted to Momentum EDU for grading unless otherwise noted by the instructor.

BIBLICAL STUDIES CORE

BIB 214 – EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLESHIP

This course will train students to cultivate and develop positive relationships with the non-churched. Students will learn methods of sharing the Gospel with children, youth and adults. The role of the local church and methods of discipling believers to maturity will be examined. Specific approaches will be explored for reaching atheists, pantheists, cults, and various religions. Three (3) credit hours.

BIB 410 – CONTEMPORARY ISSUES

This course will teach discernment of contemporary theological issues such as the woman’s role in ministry, chain of command, charismatic theology, baptism and ordinances for youth, music styles, media choices, career choices, sexuality and homosexual lifestyles. Three (3) credit hours.

YOUTH MINISTRIES CORE

YMI 214 – FOUNDATIONS AND PHILOSOPHY OF YOUTH MINISTRIES

This course will help present a biblical philosophy and modern history of Youth Ministry. Strategies will be developed for identifying the role of Youth Ministries and integrating the youth ministry into the local church. Students will gain an understanding of contemporary adolescent issues and the essential ingredients needed to make an effective youth ministry. Areas of discussion will involve: the role of discipleship, evangelism, women, parenting ministries in the church as well as methods of building a volunteer staff and youth team. Three (3) credit hours.

YMI 224 – STRATEGIZING FOR CHURCH AND CAMPUS YOUTH MINISTRIES

Strategies will be developed for: establishing a strong ministry team, effectively ministering to junior high and senior high students. This class will establish the role of the Christian school, home schooling, and the role of the public school in youth ministry. Pertinent legal issues will be discussed in relation to the church and Christians in public schools. Methods of evangelizing, discipling, and mentoring future leaders will be assessed and various curricula will be evaluated and analyzed. Strategies for meeting the needs of youth in complex family and societal structures will be developed. Three (3) credit hours.

YMI 314 – CROSS-CULTURAL YOUTH MINISTRIES

The student will learn how to assess relevant issues related to specific cultures and how to target the needs of youth within various socioeconomic groups. This class will develop strategies for meeting the needs of youth in a cross-cultural context and how to church plant using youth as a target group. The students will be taught how to train youth leadership to accomplish church planting and development. This class will be held in a cross-cultural setting offering hands-on training. Three (3) credit hours.

YMI 324 – COUNSELING AND COMMUNICATING WITH CONTEMPORARY YOUTH

This course will explore the methods of communicating biblical and spiritual truth to the youth culture. Students will be equipped to prepare and deliver effective oral communication, and training will be given in such areas as how to incorporate music as a part of a youth ministry. Counseling tools and techniques will be presented for working with families and crisis youth counseling situations. Students will also be apprised of legal issues connected with counseling. Three (3) credit hours.

YMI 494 – PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL ORIENTATION TO YOUTH MINISTRY

A description of the call and qualifications of an effective leader will be discussed. Plans will be developed for recruiting, leading, and building a volunteer staff and how to establish and maintain staff relations within a chain of command. A description of a discipled student will be presented. Methods of networking youth ministries and creating a long-range planning strategy will be developed. The student will create and maintain his/her own personal ministry resume and written strategy for youth ministry. Three (3) credit hours.

YMI 410 – YOUTH MINISTRY INTERNSHIP

The internship program is designed to help the student gain experience in a hands-on setting. Internships will focus on youth ministry programming and the development of youth ministry programs to all areas and people. The following information relates to the guidelines and procedures of the intern program. Any questions concerning the internship program should be directed toward Momentum EDU.

In order for a student in the Youth Ministry Major to take part in an internship, the following criteria must be completed and considered.

YMI 214 — FOUNDATIONS AND PHILOSOPHY OF YOUTH MINISTRIES
YMI 224 — STRATEGIZING FOR CHURCH AND CAMPUS YOUTH MINISTRIES
BIB 214 — EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLESHIP
BIB 410 — CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
YMI 314 — CROSS-CULTURAL YOUTH MINISTRIES (ONLY INTERNSHIPS IN A CROSS-CULTURAL SETTING)

A well-balanced understanding of and a long-term commitment to youth ministry are primary features of the internship program. Each youth ministry major will choose an intern location which best suits the strengths and needs of each intern. Also, mentor evaluations, youth ministry course grades, certification program performance, and progress, as well as attitude toward youth ministry will also be considered. The internship will be an exciting and rewarding part of each student’s college and youth ministry experience. Three (3) credit hours.

Momentum EDU
Programs

GRACE COLLEGE AND SEMINARY

Core classes for a Bachelors Degree (See Grace College for further class requirements)

MOMENTUM EDU MAJOR

The goal of the Momentum EDU Major is to equip each student spiritually and academically in the area of Youth Ministry. Practical training by leading individuals in the field of youth ministry will enhance the students’ awareness of the changes and growing needs of today’s youth. Students who choose the Momentum EDU program as a major must complete the following:

  • All students must be involved in the mentoring program.
  • Successful completion of the following courses in the youth ministry major are required.
  • Evangelism and Discipleship
  • Foundations and Philosophy of Youth Ministries
  • Strategizing for Church and Campus Youth Ministries
  • Cross-Cultural Youth Ministries
  • Counseling and Communications with Contemporary Youth
  • Youth Ministry Internship
  • Personal and Professional Orientation to Youth

THE MOMENTUM EDU MINOR

We believe in expecting the most from our minors in Youth Ministries (Therefore, we are committed to offering to those that minor the same training, experience, and guidance that is offered to those that major.) Students who choose the Momentum EDU program as a minor must complete the guidelines listed below (unless otherwise stated by Momentum EDU).

  • All students must be involved in the mentoring program.
  • Successful completion of the following courses:
    • Evangelism and Discipleship
    • Foundations and Philosophy of Youth Ministries
    • Strategizing for Church and Campus Youth Ministries
    • Defining Doctrines of the Christian Faith
    • Cross-Cultural Youth Ministries
    • Counseling and Communications with Contemporary Youth

Undergraduate Program

Imagine finishing college with a fully accredited Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies degree from Grace College while at the same time being trained in ministry by experienced, passionate ministry leaders. We believe that the partnership between Grace College and Grace Church in Akron provides a uniquely effective way to train the next generation of ministry leaders.

In addition, a Master of Arts in Local Church Ministry is also offered through Grace Seminary at the Akron location.

ACADEMICS

Earn a well-respected Bible degree while attending classes using Grace College’s world-class curriculum. The Akron program has been approved by the Higher Learning Commission, the accrediting body of Grace College, and the Ohio Department of Higher Education. The Grace theological seminary offers the best learning environment for students willing to get the degrees like M. A. in Local Church Ministry.

MENTORING

Be mentored and encouraged to grow and build the qualifications you will need for ministry. A team of chosen mentors will help you pursue the degrees and programs like Master of Arts in Local Church Ministry.

MINISTRY EXPERIENCE

Practically apply what you’re learning and gain valuable leadership and ministry experience.

That’s the degree program Grace Church of Greater Akron has created in partnership with Grace College.

The combination of these three elements has revolutionized the way ministry training is carried out at our undergraduate seminary. We facilitate a unique college experience with benefits beyond that of the traditional college experience.

B.S. IN BIBLICAL STUDIES

SCHEDULE OF STUDY (120 CREDIT HOURS)

Grace College Akron is here to equip you for ministry through a biblically based bachelor’s degree like M. A. in Local Church Ministry with a ministry leadership emphasis.

FALL

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
FYE 1010 – Freshman Foundations                                        3
BIB 1050 – Exploring the Bible 3
Session B
BBL 2010 – Understanding the Old Testament 3
ENG 1100 – Effective Writing 3
PSY 1200 – Essentials in Behavioral Science 3

SPRING

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
BIB 2010 – Scripture and Interpretation                               3
PHI 3010 – Christianity and Critical Thinking 3
Session B
HUM 2000 – Global Perspectives 3
BBL 2020 – Understanding the New Testament 3

SUMMER

CREDIT HOURS
MLD2020 – Ministry Leadership Seminar 1                         6

Total Credit Hours: 33

Curriculum schedule and course offerings are subject to change.

FALL

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
BBL 3010 – Defining Doctrines of Christian Faith              3
SCI 2030 – Faith, Science, and Reason 3
Session B
MIS 3220 – Principles and Practices of Prayer 3
COM 1100 – Public Speaking 3

SPRING

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
BIB 2310 – History of Christianity                                          3
MAT 3200 – Probability and Statistics 3
Session B
BBL 3090 – Spiritual Formation 3
BBL 3140 – Biblical Backgrounds 3

SUMMER

CREDIT HOURS
MLD3020 – Ministry Leadership Seminar 2                        6

Total Credit Hours: 30

Curriculum schedule and course offerings are subject to change.

FALL

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
MLD 1000 – Principles of Ministry Leadership                   3
MLD 2700 – Servant Leadership 3
Session B
MLD 3400 – Communication in Christian Ministry 3
MLD 3000 – Nonprofit Financial Management 3

SPRING

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
BBL 3000 – Theological Systems                                            3
ICS 3650 – lntercultural Ministry 3
Session B
BIB 3300 – Essential Doctrinal Themes 3
PH I 3000 – Apologetics in a Postmodern World 3

SUMMER

CREDIT HOURS
MLD4020 – Ministry Leadership Seminar 3                        6

Total Credit Hours: 30

Curriculum schedule and course offerings are subject to change.

FALL

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
ECN 3000 – Consumer Economics                                         3
BIB 3290 – New Testament Bible Exposition 3
MLD 3300 – Ministry: Outreach and Care 3
Session B
BIB 3310 – Old Testament Bible Exposition 3
HIS 1380 – Contemporary America and the World 3

SPRING

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
BIB 4060 – Expository Preaching                                           3
SOC 1100 – Introduction to Sociology 3
Session B
BBL 4810 – Senior Seminar 3
HUM 2100 – Creative Arts and Culture 3

Total Credit Hours: 27

Curriculum schedule and course offerings are subject to change.

Seminary Program

Master of Arts in Local Church Ministry

The Grace Seminary program in Akron focuses on providing a high-quality theological foundation, while being mentored in hands-on local church ministry. It combines academic excellence with a strong emphasis on practical ministry training.

The 48 credit-hour Master of Arts in Local Church Ministry degree focuses on theology, cultural aptitude, pastoral ministry skills, and leading effectively in the local church. Each class is taught by a combination of highly credentialed teachers and effective local church leaders with expertise in a variety of areas.

Our passion is to do everything we can to equip men and women for real-world ministry by providing them with the best learning environment in our global Grace seminary.

The following types of students are encouraged to consider this program:

  1. Those already having had several years of vocational ministry experience who desire further theological study in order to be better prepared for the pastoral role.
  2. Students desiring to continue their study after finishing the BS in Biblical Studies from the Grace College program in Akron.
  3. Those that want to further their ministry training while staying involved in their current local ministry.

M.A. IN LOCAL CHURCH MINISTRY

SCHEDULE OF STUDY (48 CREDIT HOURS)

FALL

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
Models of Discipleship                                                              3
Session B
TH-5090 – Hermeneutics 3

SPRING

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
PM-5040 – Interpersonal Communication & Conflict Management 3
Session B
TH-5140 – Biblical Backgrounds 3

SUMMER

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
OT-5000 | OT-5065 – Old Testament Survey                       3
Session B
NT-5320 – New Testament Survey 3

Total Credit Hours: 18

Curriculum schedule and course offerings are subject to change.

FALL

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
TH-5010 – Systematic Theology 1                                           3
Session B
TH-5170 – Systematic Theology 2 3

SPRING

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
TH-5280 – TH5290 – History of Doctrine & the Church    3
Session B
MI-5250 – Understanding and Engaging Culture 3

SUMMER

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
PM-7320 – Local Church Apprenticeship 1                           3
Session B
PM5080 – Pastoral Ministry Skills 3

Total Credit Hours: 18

Curriculum schedule and course offerings are subject to change.

FALL

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
PM-6210 | PM-6340 – Expository Preaching & Teaching  3
Session B
PM-7000 | PM-7010 – Leadership in the Local Church 3

SPRING

CREDIT HOURS
SESSION A
PM6160 – Biblical Psychology                                                  3
Session B
TH6150 – Ethics 3

Total Credit Hours: 12

Curriculum schedule and course offerings are subject to change.

Degree Completion Program

Were you previously enrolled in another college or university but never finished your bachelor’s degree and are now feeling called to ministry? Our degree completion program can help you graduate and find your path forward in ministry. Reach out now to find out more.

APPLY TODAY

Request Info