Worship and Sacred Music

Credential: Master of Arts (M.A.)

Degree Level: Master's Degree

Credits: 60 total, with up to 90 transfer credits accepted

School: School of Divinity

Program Overview

The Worship and Sacred Music program at Abide University provides comprehensive education in the theology, history, and practice of Christian worship across diverse traditions. Our RCSAI-accredited curriculum integrates biblical foundations of worship with liturgical theology and contemporary worship practices.

Core Courses

  • WST 201 — Introduction to Worship and Sacred Music (3 credits)
  • WST 301 — Biblical Theology of Worship (4 credits)
  • WST 310 — History of Christian Worship (4 credits)
  • WST 320 — Liturgical Theology (4 credits)
  • WST 330 — Contemporary Worship Movements (4 credits)
  • WST 401 — Worship and Sacred Music Capstone (4 credits)
  • WST 670 — Research Methods in Worship and Sacred Music (7 credits)
  • WST 671 — Sacred Music Research and Practice Project (12 credits)

Credit requirements

  • Core courses: 42 credits
  • Required elective credits: 18 credits

Total required: 60 credits

Elective Courses

Complete 18 credits from the options below (18 credits offered).

  • WST 410 — Sacramental Theology (3 credits)
  • WST 420 — Hymnology and Sacred Music (3 credits)
  • WST 430 — Worship Space and Sacred Architecture (3 credits)
  • WST 690 — Choral Traditions and Congregational Formation (3 credits)
  • WST 691 — Worship, Media, and Digital Participation (3 credits)
  • WST 692 — Liturgical Texts and Musical Interpretation (3 credits)

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in related field or equivalent experience
  • High school diploma with interest in worship and theology
  • Active involvement in church worship ministry
  • Personal commitment to Christian faith
  • Pastoral recommendation from church leadership

Degree Levels in Worship and Sacred Music