From the Pacific Northwest to the Ends of the Earth.
We are on a mission to see young people encounter Jesus and carry His love to the nations. Our teams go where few others go, bringing the Gospel to the unreached.
What is a Discipleship Training School (DTS)?
The DTS is a six-month program rooted in one simple conviction: encountering Jesus changes everything. Based in Lynden, Washington, surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, you will spend time going deep in your faith, building real friendships, and preparing to take the Gospel overseas. This is YWAM’s foundational school, and it might just change the direction of your life.
The DTS is not just a program. It is a community of young people who believe Jesus is worth following and that the world needs to hear about Him. You will be challenged, stretched, and sent.
1. Lecture
The first 10 weeks are focused on strengthening the foundation of your relationship with the Bible and deepening your understanding of who God is while building friendships and serving those around you. Each week features a new speaker teaching on a topic foundational to your discipleship journey, along with worship and prayer times, local ministry, small group discussion, and activities focused on the elective of your choice.
2. Outreach
The next 10 weeks will be spent overseas, taking the message of Jesus to those who don’t know him yet. Most of our outreach teams go to Central or Southeast Asia. Putting into practice what you learned during the lecture phase, you will get to participate in God’s purposes for the places you visit on outreach and share his love with the people you meet.
3. Debrief
The final 3 weeks are focused on equipping you for what’s next after DTS, be that in YWAM, going to college, working a job, or moving overseas long-term. You will see and experience a lot of new things during DTS and as the program comes to a close, we will take time to unpack what you learned and share stories of what God did through you and others during DTS.
Outreach Destinations
Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia has captured our hearts for over a decade, and we keep going back for a reason. The people of this region have a way of welcoming you into their homes, around their tables, into their lives, in a way that will catch you off guard. You go to serve, and somehow you leave feeling like you were the one who received. The faith you encounter in communities that have so little, yet give so generously, is nothing short of inspiring. Through hands-on outreach, you’ll engage with unreached people, experience a culture of radical hospitality, and play an active role in spreading the Gospel in a region we deeply love.
ELECTIVES
Explore Your Passions
Music & Worship
Whether you’re an experienced musician or just starting out, this elective will deepen your love for worship and sharpen your skills. Through songwriting workshops, leading worship alongside your DTS community, and exploring creative expressions of faith, you’ll discover new ways to encounter God and invite others into His presence.
Barista
Coffee is more than a drink; it’s a culture, a craft, and a powerful tool for connection. In this elective you’ll dive into the world of specialty coffee through hands-on training, conversations with industry experts, and field trips to local roasters and cafes. Along the way you’ll explore themes of hospitality, ethical sourcing, and how the simple act of making someone a great cup of coffee can open doors for the Gospel.
Adventure
The Pacific Northwest is one of the most stunning places on earth, and this elective takes full advantage of it. From hiking and camping to snow sports, you’ll explore God’s creation alongside your DTS community and discover how the outdoors can become a space for growth, challenge, and encountering Him in new ways. Activities are weather and season dependent.
DATES & PRICING
PROGRAM COST
$8,500 – includes housing, meals, flights, and ministry expenses for the full six months. See our FAQ for a full breakdown.
Upcoming schools
Worried about how to pay for your program? Wondering where to start with fundraising? Click this link to download our free Fundraising Tips PDF.
LIFE COACHING
At YWAM North Cascades, we provide personalized life coaching for every DTS student, not just during the program, but for three months after DTS as well. This support helps students develop a vision and plan for what’s next, and move into their next environment with focus and impact.
Let's Get Connected!
If you have more questions about any of our programs, our campus, or YWAM generally, please fill out this inquiry form. One of our staff will give you a call or send you an email as soon as possible!