Approximately one in six churches employ a youth worker. Despite falling attendance amongst young people, the growing number of full-time church-based youth workers suggests increased commitment to youth ministry. Peat explores the issues around preparing graduates for youth ministry. She analyses and evaluates the extent to which graduates are prepared and the impact this has upon the young people and churches concerned. This research enables all colleges and seminaries to reflect on their own programs and thereby better equip those entering youth ministry. The hypothesis is that many graduates are insufficiently prepared or not suited for such positions. This has resulted in the youth worker experiencing failure and, the church, disappointment. The research outcome provides improved insight for seminaries in relation to the effectiveness of academic study, practical mission and placement experience, community life and tutorial contact in preparing graduates for youth ministry.