Imagine living a life of adventure & purpose
Experience adventure, service, and self-discovery.
ADVENTURE
Be challenged by outdoor activities. Gain confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of oneself.
FAITH
Strengthen your faith while connecting with a supportive community — building lifelong friendships.
LEADERSHIP
Gain practical & leadership skills for your future through outdoor adventures & community service.
Do you need space to figure out what's next?
Many young adults long for a gap year that blends adventure, faith, and leadership development in a supportive, structured environment.
- ● Are you looking for direction in life?
- ● Do you want to grow in your faith and discover your purpose?
- ● Are you eager for personal growth?
- ● Would you like to connect with like-minded people?
- ● Do you dream of having an adventure while making an impact?
What if you could do all that and earn university credit along the way?
We understand the desire for personal growth and a meaningful journey towards confidence, leadership, and faith.
Enjoy a year of adventure, service, and self-discovery
Program Elements
30 CREDIT HOURS
Earn a full year of 30 college credits towards a degree at Kingswood University.
8 Month
This program will give you 8 months of mentorship, adventure, and career preparation with a team and community.
Work-Study Program
Students grow in their leadership and practical skill development through integrated work projects that reduce the cost of tuition.
Urban Mission Trip
Experience a life-changing week of serving on the streets of New York City.
Outdoor Elements
4 Day Backpacking Trip
Kayaking
Mountain Climbing
Downhill Skiing
Rock Climbing
Ice Climbing
Life After Elements
Personal Growth: You will develop resilience, self-confidence, and self-awareness as you complete challenging outdoor adventures and service projects.
Spiritual Depth: You will grow deeper in your faith, learning to discern God’s voice and strengthen your spiritual disciplines, preparing you for a lifetime of ministry.
Leadership Skills: This program provides valuable certifications, real-world experience, and practical leadership training that will empower you to make an impact in various ministry and career paths.
Community: You will leave with lifelong friends and a strong sense of belonging, having formed relationships with like-minded peers in a supportive Christian environment.
Career and Ministry Preparation: Equipped with college credits, certifications, and hands-on experience, you will be prepared to confidently step into your future career or further education with a solid foundation.
FAQ
Here's a list of the most frequently asked questions about the Elements Program.
Yes and no! This is a perfect gap year program for students who are searching to find what they want to do with their life.
But, and this is one of the best parts, it’s also an adventure-filled first year of university.
When you complete the program, you can transfer the credits to any other degree program at Kingswood.
Academic Classes
Adventure Trips
Certifications
Training
This program is designed for high school graduates aged 18-24.
The Elements program fee is added to regular tuition and accommodation costs (we recommend living on campus, but it is not required) and includes all domestic travel, as well as meals and accommodations while on excursions.
There is additional cost for the Mission Experience, the amount of which is supported through fundraising by the students.
Yes, you will need a hiking backpack, hiking boots, dry bags, winter clothes, and more. We will provide a complete equipment list.
You will need a passport that is valid for 6 months after the program ends.
Yes, completing this program will earn you 30 credits that can be applied at programs at Kingswood or other accredited schools.
The Elements program is open to all students who have a high school diploma or equivalent. Students are required to sign a statement of faith, and provide references.