Today, the University of Dallas’ Ann & Joe O. Neuhoff School of Ministry announced a new online Master of Pastoral Ministry - Youth Ministry (MPM-YM) program for youth ministry leaders across the nation. The graduate program, which is set to begin fall 2017, will be offered in an exclusive, two-year executive cohort that may be completed 100 percent online.

Through online theology and ministry courses, a study abroad experience with classmates in Rome, Italy, and a unique executive-style curriculum, experienced and emerging youth ministers alike will be prepared to stand with, by and for young people in today’s rapidly evolving culture.

The executive-style curriculum is designed to equip youth ministers for leadership by integrating their professional ministry experiences with program requirements, including an internship and capstone project.

“Youth ministers have a crucial mission to carry out as they accompany and mentor young people, imparting to them the goodness of the Catholic faith so that they may live fulfilling and authentic lives. We’re thrilled to be able to help meet the church’s need to form ministers capable of responding to the demand for a vibrant ministry for the next generation of Catholics,” said Neuhoff School of Ministry Dean Theodore James Whapham, Ph.D.

Students will learn from the nationally recognized faculty from the University of Dallas, and renowned youth ministry experts Bob McCarty, D.Min., and Elizabeth Madeo. Together, McCarty and Madeo bring more than 50 combined years in youth ministry experience to the new online program.

McCarty brings over three decades of ministry experience to bear on his teaching and leadership, 19 of which he spent as executive director for the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry. Madeo, a national expert in Catholic youth ministry, has been on the frontlines of service to the young church for the last 14 years. She has served as director of youth ministries at a parish in Kansas City, Missouri, in addition to writing, speaking and teaching nationally.  

The online Master of Pastoral Ministry - Youth Ministry program will provide the nation’s youth ministry leaders a unique opportunity to learn from experts in the field so they can place themselves at the service of the spiritual growth of youth in parishes, schools, churches and other mission settings.

More information about the new Master of Pastoral Ministry - Youth Ministry (MPM-YM) program is available at  udallas.edu/youthministry.

There will be a kick-off information session at the Dallas Ministry Conference[BROKEN LINK], Thursday, Sept. 29. A second information session will be held in December at the National Conference for Catholic Youth Ministry.