Residency or Professional – two pathways, one purpose.
Explore which one fits your calling.
In partnership with Austin Seminary, our holistic graduate program blends classroom education with on-the-job experience. Students from across the country are drawn to our hybrid program as it allows them to earn a Master’s in Youth Ministry without the burden of debt.
Both of our graduate pathways are designed for leaders who serve—or feel called to serve—in Children’s Ministry, Youth Ministry, College Ministry, or Community-Based Nonprofit Ministry.
Whether you’re just starting and need a job or are already serving in ministry, our programs offer theological depth, hands-on training, and holistic support.
Whether you join through the Residency or Professional pathway, all graduate students receive these benefits.
Fellowship and support from the peers in your cohort
Weekly mentoring with an experienced ministry leader
Classes designed for leaders who are called to serve young people
Real-world experience and practical skills development
Spiritual and pastoral guidance to sustain your calling
If you are currently looking for a ministry job, then the Residency pathway may be right for you.
If you are already in a paid ministry role, then the Professional pathway may be right for you.
A 3-year immersive program for early-career leaders who want job placement, practical training, and a supportive cohort experience.
Ministry Residents are responsible for a $1,500 program fee, which covers their participation in the three-year residency. This fee can be paid in full or through a flexible payment plan.
All other costs—tuition, books, travel, housing, and coaching—are fully covered through our partnership with the ministry where you serve and philanthropic investors.
We find you a meaningful place to serve for 30 hours per week with a salary package.
Your education will be fully funded by your ministry placement and our philanthropic investors.
Grow through one-on-one professional coaching that’s personal, practical, and supportive.
Housing and utilities provided - creating space to live and grow alongside your peers.
Throughout the program you'll receive holistic spiritual support from peers, professors, and coaches.
A flexible hybrid program for leaders already serving in ministry. We partner with your employer to make your degree debt-free.
Students in the Professional Education path pay just $275 total—this includes a $25 application fee and a $250 deposit.
All other costs—tuition, books, travel, and coaching—are fully covered through MLC in partnership with your current ministry employer and philanthropic investors.
Continue growing as a leader while serving where you are already connected.
We will work with your employer and philanthropic investors to cover your tuition, books, and academic expenses.
Grow through one-on-one professional coaching that’s personal, practical, and supportive.
With specialized courses, this program will benefit leaders in children's, youth, college, and community-based nonprofit ministries.
Throughout the program you'll receive holistic spiritual support from peers, professors, and coaches.
Both the Residency and Professional Education pathways share the following program details.
Jeremiah’s experience in the graduate program helped him understand the power of commitment. Instead of chasing success from church to church, he learned to invest deeply in his ministry, trusting God through the highs and lows. His journey has been one of lasting impact, grounded in faith and consistency.
Sarah discovered that the joy, freedom, and safety found at camp were as much a part of ministry as worship sessions. Her coursework in the theology of play, guided by Dr. David White, helped her see her work in a new light: a ministry of joy and freedom that draws young people closer to God.
Ryan’s story is one of growth and courage. Though they had to maintain a second job to support their family, and had no theological training, they found a way to pursue ministry through the certificate program. Ryan’s experience exemplifies the power of stepping into your calling, no matter the obstacles.
Professor of Youth Ministry
Professor of Christian Education
Fill out an application to the program and provide references.
We’ll schedule an interview and let you know within 10 business days whether you’ve been accepted.
Residency Students – we will work to place you in a job.
Professional Students – we collaborate with your employer.
Tuition is covered through placement or partnership with an employer.
You’ll begin taking classes and gaining hands-on experience!
You will earn a Master of Arts in Youth Ministry (MAYM). This is a 44-credit degree at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. You will have the option to receive instruction regarding children, youth, college, and community-based nonprofit ministry.
The MAYM is offered in a unique hybrid format that combines intensive retreats and weekly online content.
Ministry Residents travel to the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary campus three times each semester for in-person class intensives.
You will be required to pay a $25 application fee when you submit your application. If accepted, a $250 deposit is required to secure your spot. If you are on the Residency pathway then a $ 1,250 resident fee is due on either July 15 or December 15, before the semester you start the Residency. Payment plan options are available.
MLC partners with congregations and organizations representing the theological views and diversity of mainline Protestant Christianity. We partner with mainline Protestant denominations, including the United Methodist Church, Presbyterian (PCUSA), Cumberland Presbyterian, UCC, Lutheran (ECLA), Episcopal, Disciples of Christ, American Baptist, and Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Our partner seminary is Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
If you are ready to grow as a leader, get started by beginning your application today.
We pride ourselves in providing holistic support – even in the exploration process.
If a graduate degree isn’t the right fit for you, a comprehensive certificate might be a better match.
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