Learning about the nature and character of God
Through things like reading the scriptures, prayer, worship, and devotional time, we want you to understand all aspects of God such as His holiness, faithfulness, mercy, and grace.  This topic will take your whole lifetime to cover and even then be insufficient, but the intent is to cover topics most relevant and important to young people and to discuss aspects of God that can bring about the most change in your life right now. (One past lecturer: Carlos Penning)

Learning how to hear the voice of God
Yes, God still speaks! We desire for you to hear God and be able to follow all that He speaks to us through the Word, prayer and other ways.  Everyone hears God in a way that is unique to them, and we can all hear God speak through His Word.  Our desire is that you learn to better hear from God and grow closer to Him. (One past lecturer: Dale Harrison)

Understand the purpose of God’s redemption through the cross
God has a powerful plan for your life and it has already been set in motion through his sacrifice on the cross. We want you to understand the full meaning of the cross and redemption though His sacrifice so you can start to realize just how much God cares for all His children.

Unleashing the power of the Word
Our goal is to help you learn how to read the scriptures in a new way that not only challenges you but also refreshes and changes you.  We don’t want you to study or read just for the sake of studying or reading, but because they are great avenues to lead you closer in your daily relationship with God!

Developing Christ-like behavior and a powerful devotional life
There is nothing more powerful than living a life that reflects Christ. We will encourage you and help you develop a devotional life where you can discover Christ and how to better be His disciple.  This is a life-long journey that can take many shapes during your walk, but there are some key, foundational principles that can help you get started (or improve) your personal devotional life.

Learning how to make and keep healthy relationships
We love relationships here at YWAM Chico. We want you to learn how to build solid friendships that are based on the firm foundation of God’s word. There’s nothing stronger than a world-wide community of friends knit together with the truth of God’s love.  (One past lecturer: Dean Sherman)

Evangelism and missions
A primary goal at YWAM is to spread the gospel so we can reap a great harvest of souls for God.  We’ll teach you more about doing this practically in teams and one on one as you prepare for the outreach phase of the school. (One past lecturer: Ken Bluemel)

Biblical world view and cross-cultural ministry
We strive for our students to have a broad and biblical world view and to be aware of and respect all cultures that God created.  As well, all our DTS outreaches are international, giving you the chance to minister in a place you’ve probably never been among people who need to hear the truth of Jesus!

Spiritual warfare & intercession
We believe that God has called us to pray for people and regions that are lost or in need. We teach students about intercession so they can participate in deep prayer to help bring change to a world in need.  We also do this practically as a base once a week in teams. (One past lecturer: Dean Sherman)

Discovering God’s purpose for your life
Yes, your life has purpose! Once at YWAM, we will help you discover your unique gifts that the Lord has blessed you with so you can effectively fulfill His calling for your life.  This is what it’s all about!  Learning who you are in Him, and how that goes with what He would have you do with what He’s given you.  (One past lecturer: Markus Steffen)