School of Ministry Development
SOMD is where good intentions become real skills, real leadership, and lasting impact in Cambodia.
So you've finished your DTS. What's next?
A life-changing DTS we often wonder what’s next? Where is the Lord leading me?
Some people had plans before they came. Some feel called to stay but aren’t sure how. Some know Cambodia is where they’re supposed to be but don’t yet have the skills or clarity to commit long term. That’s where SOMD helps.
The School of Ministry Development is a place to further spiritual development, as well as practical service, and skills development, so you can be prepared to serve in Cambodia.
What SOMD Looks Like
Lecture Phase
You’ll work through topics that matter for real ministry. Leadership, cross-cultural communication, professionalism, fundraising, and understanding your own calling. They’re taught by people actively doing ministry in Cambodia, and you’ll be expected to apply them from week one.
Internship
This is where it gets real. For three months you’ll step into actual responsibility inside Battambang’s ministries. Teaching, leading teams, serving communities, and handling the kind of challenges that don’t come with easy answers. You won’t be observing. You’ll be doing.
Khmer Bootcamp
(For International Students)
If you’re joining us from outside Cambodia, you’ll also undertake a four month Khmer language immersion. This isn’t just a language class. It’s how you earn genuine trust and relationship with the Cambodian people you’re here to serve. Language is respect made practical.
There's no place like Battambang.
Since 2006, YWAM Battambang has grown into one of the largest YWAM campuses in the world. Over 100 staff from many nations live and work here together, serving Cambodia and acting as a resource hub for surrounding nations in the region.
Every day, all staff eat lunch together. This is one of the reasons people who come here consistently describe the community as unlike anywhere they have been before. Shared meals, shared purpose, shared commitment to one clear vision:
To see Cambodia transformed in one generation.
SOMD is a requirement for every staff member who commits to serving here. That means the people you train with are the same people you will do life and ministry with for a long time to come. You are not just doing a course. You are joining a community that is actively working toward something that matters.
If you are considering what comes after your DTS, the question is not just what program you do next. It is what community do you want to build your life around.
Get credited for your calling
Why choose between missions and school? At our location, your SOMD (School of Ministry Development) counts toward an Associate’s Degree. Plus, your credits are transferable to U of N (University Of The Nations) locations worldwide as you work toward a Bachelor’s.
Key things to know
Dates
We’d love to have you join us for one of our two yearly schools, starting in either January or July.
Khmer nationals and internationals have different departure dates.
Jan SOMD
Start date
End date
July SOMD
Start date
End date
Cost
A SOMD is divided into Lecture phase and internship/Khmer Bootcamp.
For internationals, KBC (Khmer Bootcamp) is a 4-month-long program.
Fundraising your fees is a normal and expected part of the process. If you want to talk through how others have approached it, feel free to get in touch.
Lecture phase
Our goal is to make missions accessible to everyone, so we use a tiered pricing structure to keep costs affordable for all students.
- Country A =
- Country B =
- Country C =
This includes your training, housing and food.
Not sure which category your country falls in?
UofN Financial Category List
Khmer bootcamp
The Khmer Language Bootcamp is a four-month immersion program that is part of your SOMD experience. This carries an additional cost. $1000 USD
Details
LANGUAGE
English and Khmer
PREREQUISITE
DTS (DSP 211,212).
ACCREDITATION
This YWAM School of Ministry Development (CHR 241) is a University of the Nations registered course. Eleven to twelve (11-12) credits will be earned upon successful completion of the course. These credits may be applied to a U of N degree program or transferred to other participating colleges or universities. A successfully completed YWAM-DTS is a prerequisite to all other UofN training schools, degree programs, and working long-term with YWAM.
Ready to take the next step?
If you have done your DTS and you are ready for what comes next, this is one of the most meaningful steps you can take toward a life of purposeful ministry, especially in Cambodia.
Applications are open for January and July intakes.
What Happens After Applying?
- Our team reviews your Application.
- We contact you to learn more about you and set up an interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SOMD for both Khmer nationals and internationals?
Yes, SOMD is for both Khmer nationals and internationals. It is also the prerequisite course for individuals who desire to join the staff at YWAM Battambang.
Can couples and families enroll?
Yes, couples and families are welcome in SOMD. Please contact us to discuss how other families make it work in Battambang.
When are payments due?
All payments are due by the 3rd week of the lecture phase classes in order to process.
Do I need to have done my DTS at Battambang to apply?
No. As long as you have completed a Discipleship Training School with any recognized YWAM base, you are eligible to apply. We welcome students from YWAM communities around the world.
Can I apply if I have family or financial responsibilities at home?
This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and it is a legitimate one, especially for Khmer. We cannot make that decision for you, but we can say that many of our students have navigated similar tensions. If you want to talk it through with someone on our team before applying, we are happy to have that conversation.
Is SOMD only for people who want to join YWAM staff long term?
Not necessarily.
SOMD is for anyone who wants to go deeper in ministry skills and leadership after their DTS.
SOMD is a requirement for anyone who wants to join our staff at Battambang long term, so if that is something you are considering, this is the next step.