MA in Worship Ministries – Christian Education

Many staff members serve the ministry of the local church in a dual-role capacity. Whether in efforts to create or secure a full-time position or because the individual is interested in or trained and gifted to lead in more than one unique ministry area, this is an on-site reality for many churches. For example, many youth pastors also lead worship while some worship pastors also oversee senior adult ministries or serve in church administration capacities. The list of combinations and possibilities are endless. Because we exist for the church, the goal of the Master of Arts in Worship Ministries and Christian Education degree (MAWM-CE) is to train men and women to for those unique ministry roles.

In addition to foundational biblical and theological studies, there exists an integration of Christian education core studies alongside the myriad practical, ministerial, and philosophical components from worship and music core studies. While an undergraduate degree in music is desirable, it is not required nor is it a prerequisite for admission to the degree program. Please note, however, that all incoming MAWM-CE students must show *proficiency in fundamental musical skills and will be required to take a short series of competency tests upon entering the program—scheduled during the week of orientation—in the areas of music theory, conducting, piano, and church-music history, as well as a proficiency in a major musical skill such as singing or playing an instrument.

[*See “Competency Test” information in the Course Descriptions section for a thorough explanation.]

Students graduating from the MAWM degree program will be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate appropriate competencies in music theory, history, and literature.
2. Demonstrate a high level of applied musical skills and performance discipline.
3. Demonstrate organizational and leadership skills in worship and church music ministry.
4. Integrate a Christian lifestyle and professional musical development.
5. Demonstrate a balanced approach to church music.
6. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, and application of biblical, theological, historical, philosophical, and psychological foundations of Christian Education in the context of mobilization.
7. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, appreciation, and skills of the operative principles and administrative approaches for the educational ministry of the church done in the context of mobilization.