The Firs Discipleship Program offers young adults aged 18-24 the opportunity to develop a radically rooted faith built on the truths found in Scripture.In today's rapidly changing world, many young Christians feel adrift in a shifting cultural landscape.
Our program serves as a crucial link between formal education and the deep longing for spiritual grounding. Through partnerships with Eleven6 and Anchor Christian University, alongside The Firs Ministry programs, we provide young adults with a chance to cultivate a lifelong journey of discipleship in following Jesus.
The convergence of formal post-secondary education, intentional discipleship, and practical ministry experiences will enrich our students' faith, expand their knowledge of scripture, and cultivate a Christ-centered identity, all while living in a thriving Christian community.
Graduates of the one year Radicle Program have the opportunity to earn up to 30 college credits* and a Ministry Certificate. Radicle graduates will have the option to attend our 2nd year Rooted Program.
During the Rooted year, students will deepen their education and spiritual journey while exploring a field of interest. They can continue the Biblical Studies program to earn a two-year AA Degree from Anchor Christian University, or they may choose to study subjects such as hospitality and culinary arts, forest school education, outdoor education, worship training, among others.
Quick Links
Location
>> 4605 Cable St.
Bellingham, WA 98229
Program Outcomes
Spiritual Growth and Discipleship
Students will live in Christian community while growing in their faith individually and with one another. A core focus will be on establishing healthy spiritual disciplines and developing healthy rhythms for a life-long pursuit of Jesus.
Apologetics
Coursework will be tailored towards introducing students to a deep and developing understanding of scripture. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to articulate their faith in the real world, with an educated, researched, and practically applicable perspective.
Community-Centered
We believe we were created for community. Students will become a part of The Firs community, the Whatcom County community, and their church community. A core aspect of the program is learning how to be an active member of a church congregation; building multigenerational relationships, volunteering, and participating weekly in church ministry. Volunteer experiences with local ministries will be a regular part of the program curriculum.
Ministry Experience
Throughout the year, The Firs runs diverse ministry programs designed to provide students with a robust educational journey. From summer overnight and day camps to after-school programs, forest preschool, and retreat facilities, our offerings cater to various interests and ages. These programs not only offer valuable ministry experience but also serve as an ideal platform for students to explore different occupations within the ministry realm, all while honing their apologetics and discipleship skills.
College Credit
2024-2025 COURSE LIST
Fall Trimester
(12 credits)
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BIB100 Principles of Bible Study
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COM101 Speech Communication
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LDR301 Foundations of Leadership
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THE230 Christian Apologetics
*College Credit provided by Anchor Christian University. Transcript Accreditation available through a partnership with Eleven6.
Spring Trimester
(12 credits)
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BIB100 Bible Survey
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PHI110 Foundations of Worldviews
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FIN131 Personal Finance
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MIN401 Dynamics of Discipleship
Summer Trimester
(6 credits)
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MIN402 Intro to Ministry Leadership
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MIN404 Developing Dynamic Teams
Accommodations
Discipleship Students live on the campus of The Firs Retreat Center, in the heart of Bellingham, WA and less than a mile from the beautiful shores of Lake Whatcom.
Students live in a dormitory with shared rooms. Meals are served in the campus dining hall. A student lounge is open daily for study space, group gatherings, playing games, watching movies, and more.
Program Cost + Schedule
Program Schedule
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October to August
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Move in Day:
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September 28, 2025
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First Day of Classes:
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Monday, September 29, 2025
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Weekly Schedule:
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Monday through Thursday (8am-1pm)
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daily chapel | classes | ministry experience
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Friday, Saturday, Sunday
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study/free time | work | volunteer | church
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Scheduled Breaks:
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Thanksgiving Week: November 24-28, 2025
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Christmas Break: December 22, 2025 - January 9, 2026
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Winter Reading Break: February 16-17, 2026
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Spring Break: April 6-10, 2026
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Move out Weekend:
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August 29-30, 2026
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Program Events | Experiential Learning Opportunities
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Monthly hands-on ministry experience in a camp and retreat setting
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Two retreats at The Firs Chalet on Mt. Baker (fall & winter)
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Local volunteer opportunities
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Spring missions trip
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Paid summer ministry internship
Program Cost | Work Opportunities | Financial Aid
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Program Fees:
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$200 Books & Supplies Fee; due October
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$13,500 (includes room + 18 meals per week)
- Payment options:
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Two payments of $6750; due October and February
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One payment of $12,825 (includes a 5% discount); due October
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Monthly payments of $1500; due October through June
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- Payment options:
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- Work Opportunities:
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12-week paid summer internship INCLUDED - $200-$300/week depending on job.
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Students may apply for various part-time work opportunities on campus and/or the Bellingham community during the school year.
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Financial Aid:
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Need-based scholarships available. Apply today!
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Students are invited to fundraise through family, friends, and church connections to help cover program costs. Please note that contributions toward a student's tuition are not tax-deductible.
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*The above costs and schedule are subject to change to accommodate program needs.
