Worship and Sacred Music

Credential: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Degree Level: Bachelor's Degree

Credits: 120 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 450 — Congregational Singing and Musical Leadership (3 credits)
  • WST 451 — Worship Planning and Liturgical Practice (3 credits)

Credit requirements

  • Core courses: 29 credits
  • Required elective credits: 18 credits
  • General education: 60 credits
  • Open electives: 13 credits

Total required: 120 credits

General education covers written communication, quantitative reasoning, natural and social sciences, and the humanities. Open electives allow additional study beyond the core and specialization electives.

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 480 — Psalms in Christian Worship (3 credits)
  • WST 481 — Music, Culture, and Congregational Identity (3 credits)
  • WST 482 — Accessible Worship and Inclusive Participation (3 credits)

Admission Requirements

  • 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