If you have a passion for music and for sharing the message of Christ with others, then you might consider earning an online worship ministry degree.
An online worship ministry program can help you deepen your understanding of the Bible and theology. You can also learn how to be a leader in your church and local community.
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For those seeking a spiritually rewarding career, studying praise and worship leadership can lead to opportunities in ministry and secular settings alike.
Online Worship Ministry Degrees
A worship minister is responsible for guiding their congregation in a music-based celebration of God’s Word. Some worship ministry graduates go on to pursue internships or leadership opportunities in their church community. Some worship ministers act as church administrators or musical directors.
With practical applications in spiritual counseling, there may also be opportunities for you to pursue training in youth ministry or education. Or, you may choose to continue your studies in a graduate program.
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Pursuing a degree in worship ministry may allow you to grow in your ability to communicate God’s Word through speech as well as through music. Worship ministry school will likely deepen your understanding of the history, content, and theology of the Bible.
Within a worship study program, you will likely encounter courses in:
- Musical performance and composition
- Leadership and communication
- Christian history and theology
- Technology integration
- Counseling
- Principles and philosophy of worship
The coursework in an online worship degree is designed to deepen your knowledge of the Bible and enhance your ability to present that knowledge in engaging ways. Each online worship ministry program has a unique approach to educating the next generation of spiritual leaders. Some universities focus on music, others on technology integration, while some are more traditional.
With a wide variety of accredited universities offering worship arts degree programs, you have the opportunity to seek out a program that is aligned with your musical abilities and spiritual philosophy.
Ministry and Leadership Careers & Salaries
While a degree in worship ministry may seem to offer a pretty straightforward career path, there are actually a range of opportunities that graduates may pursue.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a wide variety of career options available to those with an online worship leader degree, though the salary and job outlook of these options also varies widely.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Music Directors and Composers — Elementary and Secondary Schools |
$61,950 |
| Middle School Teachers |
$61,320 |
| Sound Engineering Technicians | $60,500 |
| High School Teachers — Private Schools | $56,510 |
| Clergy |
$49,720 |
| Music Directors and Composers — Religious, Civic, and Similar Organizations | $48,420 |
| Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers – Private Schools | $47,480 |
| Directors, Religious Activities and Education | $46,980 |
| Social and Human Services Assistants | $37,610 |
| Religious Workers | $37,500 |
Many graduates tend to pursue positions as worship leaders within a church. Expertise in musical composition, theology, and counseling can also lead to opportunities in the music industry, education, and leadership outside of a church setting.
Worship Ministry Bachelor’s Curriculum & Courses
Worship ministry programs seek to enhance your knowledge of Scripture and theology while providing practical training in communication to effectively share that knowledge. Some examples of courses you are likely to encounter are listed below:
- Old and New Testament History: These types of courses focus on the content and history of the Bible in its entirety to help you understand the message in each text.
- Spiritual and Leadership Development: Using spiritual introspection, you’ll learn to better understand the role of God in your own life and to apply leadership skills in bettering the lives of others through Christ.
- Church Development Strategies: This course examines the role of the church throughout history and seeks to apply that understanding to the modern development of a church congregation.
- Internship Practicum: An internship provides an on-the-job look at the role of a worship minister in the church setting prior to your immersion as a worship minister intern.
- Music Theory for Worship: This course provides the foundation for musical composition and arrangement.
- Theology of Worship: In this course, you’ll examine the history of worship as well as the biblical role of worship and its influence on modern worship practices.
- Technology Integration: You’ll learn how to utilize technology and the fundamentals of music theory to create the best worship experience for your congregation.
- Songwriting and Arranging: For the more advanced musician, this course offers the opportunity to apply scriptural knowledge to communicate a deeper connection with Christ through music.
- Pastoral Counseling: You’ll learn how to effectively guide your congregation through times of struggle using God’s Word.
- Christian Ethics: This class examines the Christian worldview and its applications to ministry and daily life.
There is a fair amount of consistency in the course options among the various online worship ministry programs. Course titles and offerings can vary, though, depending on the program and concentration.
How to Become a Worship Leader
There aren’t licensing requirements for worship ministers in most states. Many people, though, are choosing to obtain their training and education through seminary schools and universities rather than solely through internship programs.
The following are some steps you might take to further your career in worship ministry:
- Establish your relationship with Christ. It is important to establish your individual relationship with Christ and the church. Exploring your passion and motives can help you determine whether you’re on the right path.
- Pursue formal training. Through a worship ministry program, you can dive deeper into the history and content of the Bible and learn how to convey the messages in Scripture through music and speech. You can also explore leadership and administration methods necessary within a worship ministry.
- Seek out experience and mentors. It can be beneficial to seek out mentors in your chosen career in order to have guidance and gain practical experience. Internships or associate positions can also be helpful stepping stones within ministry.
There are many paths to becoming a worship leader in your community, depending on the regulations of your local church or denomination. An online degree in worship ministry may be particularly useful for those who are interested in utilizing music and technology to convey the messages of the Bible.
Online Worship Ministry Degree Admissions Requirements
Admissions requirements for an online ministry degree program can differ depending on which school you are interested in, but some common requirements are listed below.
- ACT or SAT scores (only some schools require them)
- High school transcripts and minimum GPA
- Affirmation of school’s theology statement
In addition, you will generally be required to submit transcripts as well as an application. For specific admission requirements, you can contact the school you are interested in.
Accreditation
Regional accreditation ensures that postsecondary programs meet the expectations of students and future employers alike. Schools that are awarded the status of regional accreditation meet the legal standards established by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
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Earning a degree from an accredited university may help credits transfer to other programs—including graduate programs—more smoothly. Federal financial aid and many scholarships are also offered only to qualifying students who attend accredited universities.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
There are many financial aid options available to students who qualify, regardless of which degree you are seeking. You can see if you qualify for any federal or state student loans or grants.
Your options certainly aren’t limited to government entities, though. There are numerous public and private organizations that offer scholarships for students. Some of these scholarships are major specific, while others may be based on need or merit.
For additional information, and to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can visit the US Department of Education’s website.
What Is a Worship Leader?
A worship leader is one of the key individuals in the formation of a community-centered approach to church engagement.
Worship leaders use their biblical knowledge and their talents for musical presentation and oration to convey the messages of the Bible. Worship leaders plan and execute individual worship sessions. Many also act as spiritual guides and counselors within their congregation. They might manage administrative aspects of their church as well.
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Worship Leader?
Some churches don’t require formal training to become a worship leader, while others require ordained ministers to hold a bachelors or masters degree in a ministry or divinity field.
While the actual requirements can vary depending on the church, a formal education may open opportunities for career advancement and diversity. Universities that offer specific degrees in worship ministry generally offer either a Bachelor of Arts in Worship Ministry or a Bachelor of Science in Worship Studies. Other related majors include theology and religious studies.
A bachelors degree can also help you develop your soft skills as well as leadership skills, all of which are applicable in a variety of religious and secular roles.
What Can I Do with a Worship Ministry Degree?
Professionals with a degree in worship ministry may serve as a member of the church clergy. The emphasis on music, counseling, and communication within this degree program can also lead to a variety of other opportunities.
For example, some graduates intern or volunteer for their church’s worship team but work in other positions to support themselves. They might work as choir directors, music teachers, or even recording artists. Communication and leadership skills are also valued in nearly every industry.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelors in Worship Ministry Degree Online?
Online degrees can offer a great deal of flexibility. For those seeking a traditional path to a degree, many colleges offer 16 week semesters. With a full-time course load, a bachelor’s degree generally takes 4 years to complete.
Some colleges also offer accelerated programs with 8 week terms. Such programs may take less time to complete if you choose to stay enrolled year-round with a full course load.
Is a Worship Ministry Degree Worth It?
Yes, a worship ministry degree is worth it for many students. Whether you are seeking a life of religious service or are interested in theology and music, an online degree in worship ministry can help you advance your knowledge in these notable areas.
Religious organizations and churches are cornerstones of culture throughout the world, and a degree in worship ministry may add tremendous value to individuals seeking a career in service. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, community and social service occupations are expected to see 10% job growth over the next ten years.
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Due to the varied nature of the coursework within a worship ministry degree, you may also be equipped for a career in music, counseling, or education, depending on your specialization.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Worship Ministry Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Boyce College offers a Bachelor of Science in Worship and Music Studies. Students must complete 129 credit hours to graduate. They may choose to specialize in piano, voice, guitar, or other instruments. Applicants must submit a pastoral recommendation, an autobiography, standardized test scores, and high school transcripts.
Boyce College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association of Theological Schools.
Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an emphasis in Worship Leadership. The program requires students to obtain 120 credit hours to graduate. Online classes are 7 weeks long. Those interested in the program may submit an online application with official transcripts.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Greenville University offers a Bachelor of Science in Worship Art. Students may choose to add an emphasis in Pastoral Musician or Music Director. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Applicants must submit proof of having a high school diploma or the equivalent and an application essay.
Greenville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Lee University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies online program. Students may choose to take the Pastoral Ministry track to focus on worship. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours. Applicants must have a minimum high school GPA of 2.0 and submit ACT or SAT test scores.
Lee University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Worship Studies. Students must complete 120 credit hours over the course of 4 years with a minimum GPA of 2.0 to graduate. Those interested in the program must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher to be eligible for the program.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry program. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. All classes are 6 weeks long, with new start dates every month. Applicants may apply online through the school’s website with copies of their official transcripts.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Northwest University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership. Students must complete 120 credit hours and at least three ministry internships to graduate. Applicants must submit a biographical essay, ACT or SAT test scores, and high school transcripts with their online application.
Northwest University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Church Leadership with the option to add an emphasis in Worship Ministry. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Applicants must submit an online application along with official high school transcripts and placement test scores.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary offers a Bachelor of Arts in Worship and Music. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Applicants must complete an audition, either in person or through an online video, take a proficiency exam for both the piano and guitar, and pass a music theory placement exam.
SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Bachelor’s in Missions and Ministry program. It is designed for those interested in different kinds of ministry, including worship ministry. Applicants must have a high school GPA of 2.0 or higher and need to submit official transcripts to the school.
The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Getting Your Worship Ministry Degree Online
There are numerous program options available for those who are seeking formal training in worship ministry. Many accredited universities also offer online worship ministry programs that have more convenient and flexible schedules.
If you’re wanting to deepen your own understanding of Scripture, develop your musical skills, and learn how to lead a ministry, then a bachelors in worship ministry could be a good fit for you. The sooner you start exploring accredited universities, the sooner you may find the worship ministry program that best suits your interests and needs.
