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Courses & Topics

The academic component of the LTD program is made up of 11 courses. Each course is made up of multiple classes on the course topic. The courses are taught throughout the program resulting in a final grade issued at the end of the program. Many of the courses combine academic theory as well as experiential practice followed by evaluations and performance debriefing.

Camp Administration

A course that presents a biblical perspective on principles of camp leadership and administration. Topics include; camp finances and budgets, IRS regulations and reports, for-profit and not-for-profit distinctions, fund raising and donor relations, board structures and agendas, property descriptions, land use and property taxes, and legal issues facing camps.

Camp Counseling

A practical introduction to camp counseling, including areas of counseling need, the role of the counselor, counseling skills and techniques, biblical perspectives, and camper characteristics.

Camp Maintenance

A course that presents a carefully planned philosophy of maintaining a camp facility, grounds, equipment and vehicles. Topics include; building project management, camp layout, utilities and services, woods management and chainsaw class, heavy equipment, building maintenance, grounds maintenance – and many other maintenance topics.

Camp Management

A course that gives an overview of the managerial responsibilities of a camp administrator, contrasting God’s plan for leadership with that offered in secular society. Topics include; servant leadership, dynamics of leadership, principles of biblical leadership, time management, long range planning, human resources, ministry descriptions and standards of performance reviews.

Camp Organization

A course that focuses on the development of an operating philosophy and organizational system. Each LTD staff member presents a complete camp model on paper (see Dream Camp paper), including vision, values, mission statement, desired outcomes, ministry strategies, philosophy, staffing plan, marketing plan and a proposed operational budget.

Camp Programming

A course that provides programming theory and experience for the year-round camp, including youth camps, family camps, retreats, wilderness trip camping, outdoor education, winter sports and activities and special events. The student receives an in-depth exposure to the recreational leadership opportunities available at a camp.

Camp Safety & Risk Management

A course that stresses the importance of a continual safety consciousness in all work and program areas, planning, and activities. First aid and CPR training are included.

Camp Teaching

A course that presents principles for becoming an organized and effective teacher, one who teaches for life-change. The student studies methods of teaching biblical concepts through a total program perspective, making use of teachable moments as well as formal teaching settings. Students gain experience through teaching summer Bible classes, outdoor education and various winter sports activities.

Family/Ministry Relationships

A course that discusses the relationship and balance of family life and ministry. Topics include healthy communication, family relationships, consistent and loving discipline of children, education and families working together at camp.

Food Service Management

A course that provides experiential and classroom exposure to menu planning, nutrition, food purchasing and preparation, special diets, systems of serving, sanitation, budgeting, and supervision of staff.

Promotion and Public Relations

A study of marketing methods used to develop a brand, gathering a constituency through trust building, and keeping them informed. Numerous aspects of media preparation and presentation are covered.

Experience

Exposure to four seasons of camping and to a diversity of responsibilities, experiences, and trips.

Dream Camp Paper

A 100-plus page paper designed to help LTD participants integrate classroom principles, “hands-on” experiences, and personal callings. In addition to the topics mentioned in the “Camp Organization” course description, participants frequently add chapters on site development, marketing, building plans, and construction costs.