Snowbird exists to see the church of Christ equipped to impact this generation. The SWO Institute program was created out of the desire to focus on equipping college-age students to become more mature disciples of Christ and advance the spread of the Gospel to the nations. Our goal is to invest in Institute students in three specific areas: theological training, relational discipleship, and local ministry.

“My mind has been opened to many ministry opportunities, big and small, at and outside of Snowbird. My passion for evangelism and discipleship has grown.”

Theological Training   |   SEBTS at Snowbird

Throughout the two semesters, Institute students will sit in classes like Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey, Systematic Theology, World Religions and Apologetics. These courses will take place several days a week and are taught by Snowbird’s full-time speakers. College credit is now available for some of these courses through the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary’s undergraduate college.
“Learning to live alongside and serve one another is an essential part of sanctification. The Institute provides this opportunity as well as strong leadership to oversee it.”

Relational Discipleship   |   Snowbird

The bulk of ministry training offered will take place through working with students who attend retreats and conferences nearly every weekend throughout the year. Institute students will be the direct contacts for student pastors/ leaders and will be immersed in relational ministry with the students throughout every retreat. Working as a part of the retreat and conference staff, Institute students will also work on and off- campus recreation and help maintain our facilities throughout the year.
“My mind has been opened to many ministry opportunities, big and small, at and outside of Snowbird. My passion for evangelism and discipleship has grown. -Brittany Pleasants”

Local Ministry   |   Andrews, NC

A special part of the program is that discipleship for Institute students goes beyond just the work day and class time. The students have the opportunity to become involved with a local church, tutor local elementary school students, minister to local families, and take a trip overseas to experience student ministry in a cross-cultural context. The Institute will partner with the Church and fellow Snowbird staff to reach people with the Gospel and do life together day-to-day.

College Credit

FAQs & Info

The SWO Institute year starts in August and ends the following August. Contact us to get all the details.  Applications available each June »

Being a part of SWO year-round is a blast but it’s hard work. If you are considering applying for the SWO Institute program you should understand that it will be challenging in every area of your life. This program isn’t new to SWO and we know that a year spent serving here could be one of the greatest seasons of growth in your Christian life. It will involve long hours of running recreation and leading small groups combined with working, studying, and laboring for the Gospel. Our goal is to prepare Institute students for whatever God might call them to next—whether it be in vocational ministry or the workforce.