The IASYM is focussed on furthering the academic study and research of youth and youth ministry, the formal teaching and training of youth ministry (at universities, seminaries, denominations, para-church organisations, local ministries, or wherever else it may occur), and on the growth and development of youth ministry as a recognised profession.

Our goal is to raise the profile of youth ministry as a calling, career and/or professional enterprise, and to encourage the reflection on youth ministry as an academic discipline that will support youth ministry at this level.