Taking courses with the University of the Nations is not exactly like pursing a degree at your local state or private college. It’s a unique experience! Our modular education system allows you to focus on one topic at time in 12-week increments. You’ll hear from a variety of teachers (as opposed to just one professor), and get hands on experience outside the classroom (typically with international outreaches). You also receive coaching and mentorship with weekly one-on-onemeetings with your staff.
You can obtain an associates, bachelors, or masters degree through the UofN, selecting courses from 160 locations all around the world. Or choose to take just 1-2 courses! This allows you to test the waters in an area you may be vocationally interested in (such as missions, counseling, videography, biblical studies) without committing to a set degree program. The goal of the University of the Nations is for you to be immediately equipped and inspired to use your gifts and skills to further God’s purposes in the nations. No waiting around for a complete degree.
Unlike typical universities, where students take several subjects in any given quarter or semester, University of the Nations students take only one 12-unit school per quarter. This gives our students an in-depth understanding of that subject. Each week, the school focuses on a different theme within that subject, instructed by international speakers who are respected within their fields. Each school is typically followed by an internship or cross-cultural field assignment to give immediate application of what was learned. We believe the best way to learn is by doing.
An added benefit of the modular system is the relational dynamic it creates. Most of our classes are small enough for our students to get to know one another well. From this comes many lasting friendships, greater cross-cultural understanding, and an amazing network of connections within the larger YWAM family.
Students in the University of the Nations live together in dormitories, study together in class and work together on each U of N campus. This community learning concept embodies the New Testament model of Christians who live and learn together and work toward common objectives. This family-style approach implies a sharing of meals, resources, ideas and talents in a spirit of love and unity. Our students and staff come from many nations, cultures, denominations and generations, and God forms us into a beautiful family. The live-learn concept gives students remarkable access to our faculty and staff, who model the life of Christ in many everyday settings. Through the combination of academic study and community life, students grow in character as well as wisdom.
Our courses are offered all over the world, with students from multiple nations in each school. You can complete your DTS here in Salem, Oregon and go on an outreach to Tanzania. Then you can study the Bible in Taiwan for nine months, then go to another location in Asia to teach others how to study the Bible for themselves. You will learn by doing and you can gain insights while you serve in cultures different from yours.
