Certificate in Youth and Children’s Ministry

Develop skills and knowledge to lead with confidence in our holistic certificate program.

About the Certificate Program

Our Certificate Program develops authentic, proficient, and theologically-informed ministry leaders. Students come from various backgrounds, from recent college graduates to those starting a second career. They may serve in full-time or part-time ministry, or even as volunteers.

Students are drawn to this hybrid program as it allows them to gain seminary-level education without the burden of debt. We make this possible by collaborating with employers to ensure the cost of the program is covered. For applicants who aren’t currently employed, our team is available to provide job placement assistance.

Certificate Program Benefits

Community

Fellowship and support from the peers in your cohort

Coaching

Bi-monthly mentoring and StrengthsFinder coaching

Specialized Coursework

Classes designed for leaders who are called to serve young people

Flexibility

Balance coursework with family, work, and ministry responsibilities

Contextual Support

Instruction adapted to each church, plus on-site consulting

Testimonials

“I would not be able to succeed in my role without this program. I am more confident and energized about ministry to young people than I have ever been! The classes, coaching, and relationships I’ve made through this program have given me vision, confidence, and practical tools to be a more effective minister to our church’s families.”

- Jake Wiese, Class of 2021

“Over the past two years, I have changed as a person and my ministry has evolved into something better. This was due to the seminars, conferences, and breakout sessions, which were helpful and applicable. I also found that having colleagues to collaborate and commiserate with once a month was a huge boost in my confidence as a minister.”

- Carol Stepp, Class of 2017

“I truly believe the cohort, learning, coaching, conferences, and courses dramatically impacted the trajectory of my life. I am three years into my job now, which is longer than any other person has stayed in this position over the last decade. I believe God called me to ministry with  young people, and this program gave me the tools to succeed!”

- Jenna Soltys, Class of 2019

Program Details

Two-year, hybrid program.
New cohorts begin each fall.
Four instructional retreats per year in Kansas City, with the option to join the cohort online via livestream.
Coursework includes biblical studies, teaching, youth culture, adolescent development, counseling foundations, training volunteers, and more.
Open to applicants of all denominational backgrounds.

Theological Innovation Process

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Our Faculty

ABOUT

Reverend Patricia Bonilla holds a Ph.D. in Christian education and congregational studies from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. She is an ordained United Methodist (UMC) deacon and the national program director of the Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy. Reverend Patricia Bonilla served churches throughout Illinois since 2005, primarily in Christian education and youth and family ministries.

Email: patricia.bonilla@mlc.org

Dr. Andrew Zirschky

Professor of Youth Ministry

ABOUT

Rev. Patricia Bonilla

Professor of Christian Education

Trusted by

Stories of Transformation

Ryan King

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.

Program Tier Options

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How it Works

Step 1

Fill out an application to the program. A $25 application fee applies.

Step 2

We’ll schedule a conversation to learn more about your ministry setting. For applicants who aren’t currently employed, our team offers job placement assistance.

Step 3

We support ministry leaders by working with their employer (or prospective employer) to pay for the cost of enrollment.

Step 4

Students begin taking classes and meeting regularly with their coach!