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Academic Programs Frequently Asked Questions

Youth Ministry, Family, and Culture

  • Have the professors written any books?

    Yes!  David Olshine has had 19 books published.  The most recent books are:

  • How many Youth Ministry, Family, and Culture professors teach at CIU?

    Three professors bring over 78 years of youth ministry experience to the program.

    • Dr. David Olshine: Over 25 years in church and para-church youth ministry and 6 years as the lead pastor of a college church
    • Dr. Karen Grant: Over 20 years in the church and over 10 summers in camping ministry
    • Dr. Sam Rubinson: 11 years at summer camps, 9 years youth minister, and 7 years in para-church ministry

  • What are current Youth Ministry, Family and Culture majors saying?

    “I can’t think of any more appropriate setting or curriculum to be equipped with the necessary tools for youth ministry.  This program will teach you to be engaged in Scripture and with youth in dynamic ways, and will help you learn more about yourself than ever before.”
    Jamie Smith (Junior)

    “The Youth Ministry program opens your eyes to the fact that you can do Youth Ministry outside of a church.  It gives you a variety of experiences, ranging from Counseling to Cross Cultural Youth Ministry to Outdoor Leadership.”
    David Nichelson (Senior)

  • What do Youth Ministry, Family, and Culture graduates say about the education they received at CIU?

    "My professors mentored and challenged me in my walk with Christ inside and outside the classroom.  I didn’t feel like a student.  I felt like a friend.  Watching their authenticity and passion for being a Christ follower had a tremendous impact on my own personal walk with Christ.  I don’t believe there is a better place than CIU to prepare you for student ministry.”
    Brent Metcalf
    Youth Pastor (Middle and High School Ministries)
    Brevard Community Church in Brevard, NC

    “The knowledge I gained from studying and researching prepared me for preaching and teaching the Word of God, and gave me the wisdom I need to work with youth.  CIU helped me see the importance of God in everything I do and to realize who I am in Jesus Christ.  Through CIU, I found the gifts and talents that exist within me, and I became bold and courageous.  My CIU experiences with God, professors, and friends changed my life.”
    LaToya Reed
    Assistant chaplain and Spiritual Development Volunteer Coordinator
    South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice

    “Youth Ministries Director Dr. David Olshine set a high standard for me and my classmates.  When I graduated from Columbia International University, I knew that I was part of a ministry movement that was making a difference in the world and Dr. Olshine played a crucial role in that outcome.”
    Bryant Laird
    On staff with World Changers and Power-Plant North American Mission Board

  • What jobs are available for Youth Ministry, Family, and Culture graduates?

    • Church Youth Pastor/Worker (middle school, high school, & college)
    • At Risk Youth at Department of Juvenile Justice or Group Homes
    • Urban/Inter-City Youth Ministry
    • International Youth Ministry with various mission agencies
    • Sports Ministry
    • Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Athletes in Action
    • Para-church Youth Agencies
    • Young Life, Youth for Christ
    • Youth (& their families) at military bases around the world
    • Cadence International
    • International Schools
    • Resident Assistants, School Chaplin
    • Camp/Retreat Ministry
    • Director, Program Director
    • Wilderness Trip Leader
    • Outdoor Education Instructor
    • Challenge Course Director
    • Adventure Program Director
    • Wilderness Instructor