The Discipleship Training School (DTS) is a program run by Youth With A Mission International  (YWAM) to help people grow closer to God and prepare to make an impact in the spheres of society. It is the first step for those wanting to join YWAM and is part of the University of the Nations  (UofN).

The purposes of DTS:

• To GATHER and CHALLENGE people to worship, listen to and obey God, releasing them (in the context of the DTS) to serve through evangelism, intercession, acts of compassion and other expressions of God’s heart for the world, possibly even pioneering new ministries.

• To INSPIRE and CULTIVATE growth in one’s relationship with God resulting in Christ-like character by active participation in a missional community who engage in a variety of Christian practices , including encountering God through the Word by the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

• To SHARPEN one’s ability to relate to, learn from and work with people, including those of different cultures, personalities and perspectives.

• To further EQUIP each one to serve God’s purposes either in or outside of YWAM Family of Ministries, strengthening a commitment to reach the lost, especially the unreached, to care for the poor, and to influence all areas of society.

• To IMPART the story, vision and foundational values of Youth With A Mission and the University of the Nations.

Purpose of the DTS approved by YWAM’s GLT August 25, 2001

DTS has two main parts: the Lecture Phase and the Outreach Phase. During the three-month Lecture Phase, students learn through teaching, small groups, and times of prayer and worship. Topics include hearing God’s voice, living with purpose, missions, and understanding different cultures. After this, the two- to three-month Outreach Phase allows students to put what they learned into action by serving in different communities, often in another country. Each DTS is a mix of people from different cultures and ages, creating a unique and supportive environment.

We are excited to host an International, Multigenerational, Multicultural DTS from June 20 to December 6, 2025. This school will bring together people from different countries and generations to grow in their faith and work together in missions. By the end of the DTS, students will know God more deeply, understand their purpose, and be ready to serve wherever He leads them. Whether returning home or going to new places, graduates will be equipped to share God’s love and make a lasting impact.