Studies show that less than 20% of Christians have read the entire Bible and less than 45% have read through the New Testament. While many of us identify as followers of Christ and even regard the Bible as life-giving and valuable, we often deprioritize it in our daily lives.

Why does such a low literacy rate exist? The why is one problem, but at YWAM San Diego/Baja, we're focused on tackling the what and increasing the percentage of Christians who know God's word on a deeper level.

We are passionate about ending Bible illiteracy and believe that one of the greatest investments you can make is to take time to dive deep into the word and experience God's great story for His people. Our Bible school programs, also called secondary courses, are extended missions training courses for DTS graduates who want to know God better and help make Him known across the nations by committing themselves to His word.

Our Christian gap year programs that are focused specifically on the word of God are the School of Biblical Studies - Chronological and the Chronological Biblical Core Course. In this guide, we've compiled 5 reasons why you should spend your gap year with YWAM San Diego/Baja in one of these fantastic schools.

Learn more below, and when you're ready, apply for our flagship gap year program, Discipleship Training School (DTS), to unlock your full potential and check out our additional Christian gap year programs.

5 Reasons to Do Christian Gap Year Programs

1. YOU BUILD A FOUNDATION

The time spent in the School of Biblical Studies - Chronological (SBS-C) is so worth it. You spend an average of 40+ hours a week, for 9 months, building a foundation of the word of God in your life.

You may never have a time this intensive again, but it leaves you with a grounding in the word that better prepares you for future ministry and even life in general. It truly is a gift to dedicate a season to invest in your faith, a gift that will bear fruit for years to come.

2. YOU GROW DEEPER

The school brings insight and exciting revelation about who God is and why we desire a relationship with him. By studying the word in depth during your gap year, you gain freedom and intimacy with God like never before. As you examine the text and gain context, your beliefs are challenged and God brings alignment with him into your thoughts and identity.

Reading through the Bible 5 times sows seeds of the word of God into your heart that change the way you think and view the world.

3. YOU RECEIVE HEALING

Studying the scripture gives the Holy Spirit room to bring healing and revelation to areas in your life that you may have never even noticed you needed.

It touches your heart and your mindset and brings life. In the face of doubts, frustrations, and conviction, you are presented with truth, joy, and freedom in knowing God’s word. This healing is invaluable not only to you personally but also as a testimony to others.

4. YOU ARE EQUIPPED

This is only the beginning. In SBS-C and the BCC-C, you are equipped to continue a lifestyle of study and revelation from the word of God. The schools give you the tools you need to not only think for yourself but also understand the message and themes of the Bible.

Through the inductive method, you learn observation, interpretation, and application, which helps you to understand what the original text meant and who it was intended for so that you can more appropriately apply the text to your personal life.

5. YOU GAIN THE BIG PICTURE

In the process of studying the Bible in its entirety, you gain the big picture, while discovering the constant and unchanging character of God throughout all history. The SBS-C and the BCC-C bring clarity to places where there may have been confusion and allow you to see the scope of history in a linear view while understanding God's redemptive plan for mankind.

There is no angry God of the Old Testament vs. merciful God of the New Testament. He is one in the same and his heart for us is redemption.

What Is a Bible School?

A Bible School, in the context of YWAM San Diego/Baja, refers to a series of secondary courses designed to deepen your understanding of the Bible and strengthen your faith. Unlike initial gap year training programs, like DTS, these advanced courses offer more specialized, in-depth study of scripture, theology, and practical ministry skills.

YWAM's Bible Schools are built on a foundation of intense discipleship and community living, where students not only learn academically but also grow spiritually through hands-on ministry and personal mentoring.

These programs aim to equip believers with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively share the gospel, serve in various ministries, and lead others in their spiritual journeys.

By participating in a Bible School at YWAM San Diego/Baja, you'll engage in comprehensive biblical studies, participate in practical outreach opportunities, and develop a deeper, more personal relationship with God. Whether you're preparing for long-term missions work or seeking to enhance your biblical knowledge, YWAM's Bible Schools provide a transformative educational experience.

Young adults who have complete DTS can apply for our additional Christian gap year programs online today!

What Types of Secondary Courses Are Available?

At YWAM San Diego/Baja, a variety of secondary courses are offered to help deepen your faith, expand your biblical knowledge, and equip you for effective ministry. These courses are designed for those who have completed a Discipleship Training School (DTS) and are looking to further their spiritual and academic growth.

Here are some of the secondary courses available:

School of Missions, Evangelism & Apologetics: Knowing what and why you believe starts with scripture and theology understandings. For young people ready to take the next step in missions, this school is for you.
Discipleship Bible School: Get to know the scripture. Understand the culture of Biblical times. Gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your Christian community.
Community Development School: In the CDS school, we believe "development starts with me!" You are a powerful tool for the Holy Spirit. Learn your place within the Great Commission and how to help fulfill God's plans for your life.
School of Biblical Studies - Chronological: Also called the Chronological School of Biblical Studies, this course lays a Biblical foundation that prepares you for a lifetime of following Jesus Christ. It's the perfect end to a YWAM gap year.

There is no maximum age range for our secondary courses. Any student who completes our 5-month DTS missions training experience is eligible. Our minimum age is 18 years old or high school graduates with a valid diploma.

How Do Secondary Courses Fit in With Christian Gap Year Opportunities?

For many young people, Christian gap years offer a unique opportunity to deepen their faith, gain valuable life skills, and serve alongside like-minded peers on international mission trips. At YWAM San Diego/Baja, the Discipleship Training School (DTS) is often the first step in this transformative journey.

However, DTS is just the beginning, as a full gap year provides ample time for further spiritual and personal growth.

After completing DTS, which spans 5 months, students have the opportunity to continue their gap year by enrolling in secondary courses. These courses build on the foundation established during DTS, offering more specialized training and deeper biblical knowledge.

This extended period of study and service ensures that students are well-equipped for long-term missions work. These courses not only provide valuable skills but also include practical outreach components, giving students additional cross-cultural experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Experience life to the fullest during your gap year with YWAM San Diego/Baja.

What Is the University of Nations?

The University of the Nations (U of N) is YWAM’s global university, offering a wide range of courses designed to equip students with practical ways to serve and lead in their communities and beyond.

With campuses in over 100 countries, the U of N provides an international learning environment where students can earn college credit while engaging in transformative education.

Courses at the University of the Nations cover various disciplines, including arts, science, education, and humanities, all integrated with a Christian worldview. This unique approach allows students to discover and develop their God-given talents and callings through both academic study and practical application.

Additionally, the University of the Nations places a strong emphasis on self-discovery and personal growth. By fostering an environment that encourages spiritual, intellectual, and emotional development, the U of N helps students grow holistically.

This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are not only well-prepared academically but also equipped to make a significant impact in their spheres of influence.

The University of the Nations offers diverse programs designed to help you achieve your goals and fulfill your purpose. YWAM San Diego/Baja's secondary courses are a part of the University of Nations, meaning during your gap year, you could earn college credit.

We run the School of Biblical Studies-Chronological here, each September, at our beautiful San Antonio Del Mar campus, located just south of Tijuana, Mexico. We invite gifted Bible teachers from all over the world and have a great team of SBS-C and BCC-C staff who walk with the students throughout the whole process!

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CHRONOLOGICAL SCHOOL OF BIBLICAL STUDIES CLICK HERE. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CHRONOLOGICAL-BIBLICAL CORE COURSE CLICK HERE.

(*Prerequisite for these schools is having previously completed and graduated from a DTS with YWAM.)

Christian Gap Year Opportunities: 5 Reasons to Do a Bible School Program