Words from the Department Chair

      Thank you for expressing interest in the Practical Theology program at Azusa    Pacific University.  Our department professors affirm that all believers are called to be ministers.  As a result, our program provides preparation for traditional as well as very unique full-time church and para-church ministry roles.  Graduates currently serve as senior pastors, pastors for specialized age-group ministries, as well as in all other pastoral roles, as missionaries, researchers, pastoral counselors, in para-church organizations, in camping and sports ministries, doing graduate work in preparation to teach and train others, and in many other roles. 

Our majors study with competent and caring professors who are concerned to help you discover and develop your gifts, strengths and ministry calling. 

Currently we offer two majors and two minors:  Christian Ministries and Youth Ministry

Your classroom experience will include a set of core courses that will prepare you to think and act effectively as Christians as you navigate the many tasks and relationships that are a part of a Christian’s professional and family and community life.  This core of classes focuses on leadership, theological reflection and decision-making, verbal and written communication in individual and group settings, and understanding the culture and organizations around you.  Areas you may choose to delve into in more detail include cross-cultural communication, evangelism, spiritual formation, pastoral ministry, practical theology education, preaching, family development, specialized youth ministries, urban ministry, mission, cultural understanding, comparative religions, and much more.

You might also want to consider the new Youth Ministry major at Azusa Pacific to equip you for youth ministry positions in both church and para-church settings.  Our youth ministry courses focus on issues related to family development and ministry, studying and teaching the Bible, youth culture and evangelism, and youth ministry philosophy. 

We look forward to talking with you if you would like to know more about our programs in the Department of Practical Theology at Azusa Pacific University.  We are here for you.

Blessings,

Dr. Dick Pritchard