Masters of Music
Church Music
Rooted in Worship. Refined Through Music.
Is This Program for Me?
The Master of Music in Church Music (MMCM) is designed for students who want to deepen and expand their training for vocational Christian ministry in the local church or in parachurch organizations and other settings. The degree program includes academic and professional coursework in music, church music, worship, and ministry, with a concentration in either conducting, performance or thesis.
This program may be a good fit if you:
- Want to develop your skills as a music/worship leader
- Aspire to lead a local church music/worship ministry
- Enjoy thinking broadly and deeply about the theory and praxis of church music/worship ministry
- Are considering doctoral study
- Are motivated to expand your knowledge and skills in music, theology, and leadership
What Will I Learn?
Students develop musical artistry, theological awareness, and pastoral sensitivity, as well as a grounded approach to liturgical and ecclesial practices in various settings.
You Will Learn
- Understand the role and significance of music in public Christian worship.
- Develop a biblical and theological framework for worship that honors both local and global cultures.
- Demonstrate advanced skills in music theory, history, performance, and technology for effective church ministry.
- Apply principles of pastoral leadership, care, and administration in the context of ministry.
- Plan, lead, and evaluate corporate worship gatherings with theological, liturgical, and contextual integrity.
What Makes Us Different?
Samford’s Music and Worship program combines rigorous musical training with diverse church music training and leadership opportunities in a highly supportive faculty environment.
Rooted and Relevant Training
Students receive individualized instruction and have the opportunity to increase both the depth and breadth of their knowledge and skills in church music, including a historical understanding of music in the church and its practical application over generations in various contexts.
Worship Leadership Opportunities
Students have the opportunity to connect with local church worship ministries through internships or other employment opportunities. Students are also able to lead worship through other campus worship leadership opportunities or the Samford Worship Collective, gaining practical ministry experience throughout the program.
Ensemble and Collaborative Experience
Church Music majors can participate in choirs, worship ensembles, and other collaborative performances, building versatility and liturgical awareness across a range of musical styles and ecclesial environments.
Mentorship from Distinguished Faculty
Students study with experienced faculty who guide vocational calling, practical ministry skill development, and career preparation through close, individualized mentorship.
Career Preparation
The Master of Music in Church Music equips students with the knowledge and skills in music, worship, and ministry in order to effectively prepare students for sustainable tenures in the local church or in a parachurch organization.
Prepare to Succeed
Students who complete the church music degree are prepared to:
- Provide strategic leadership for church music and worship ministries.
- Integrate biblical, theological, and musical principles into the planning and leadership of Christian worship.
- Demonstrate advanced musicianship in performance, conducting, and worship leadership.
- Build and sustain healthy teams of volunteers, staff, and ministry leaders.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the church music program pursue careers such as:
- Minister of Music
- Worship Pastor or Worship Minister
- Director of Worship Arts
- Church Music Educator
- Denominational or Parachurch Worship Ministry Leader
Leadership & Professional Experiences
Students gain extensive professional experience through ensembles, worship services, guided research projects, and conducting opportunities. Individualized mentoring in ensemble direction and worship leadership allow students to develop abilities for service as professional church musicians.
Ensembles may include choirs and worship ensembles that lead in worship services both on campus and in the community, in addition to touring and missions opportunities in local church and international settings.
