Worship Arts, MA
The worship arts graduate program at CBU is designed to provide deep, yet practical training for worship leaders in the areas of worship theology, pastoral leadership, musical competence, and platform effectiveness.
Program Intro
With a hybrid “online-intensive” format that can be completed in just one year, this 34-unit, fully accredited Worship Arts, MA degree represents an accessible and economical option for current worship leaders/pastors to deepen their ministry impact while laying the foundation for a potential career in academia.
Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn a Master of Arts in Worship Arts at CBU?
CBU’s Master of Arts in Worship Arts provides a deep exploration into vital areas of proficiency for every worship leader, including musical and platform effectiveness, ministerial leadership, and worship theology. This innovative graduate program is designed for convenience and economy, featuring a 34-unit / one-year format that combines online courses with two week-long intensives on CBU’s beautiful, resort-style campus in the heart of Southern California.
Whether you are a full-time worship pastor or a bi-vocational / volunteer worship leader, CBU’s MA in Worship Arts can deepen your understanding and sharpen your skills, ultimately expanding your impact as a facilitator of authentic and excellent worship in the 21st century church. No undergraduate degree in music or worship is required for acceptance.
What You'll Learn
- Biblical Theology: Demonstrate biblical theology of worship and its use in the creation
and practice of worship.
- Worship and Ensemble: Leadership Lead worship and facilitate ensemble success.
- Worship History: Interpret the church’s worship historically and the progression of
liturgical development.
- Worship Arts: Evaluate the use of liturgical arts, architecture, and modern artistic
expressions in worship.
- Worship Resources: Know available resources for worship planning, preparation and
facilitation.
- Worship Technology: Use worship technology effectively in church services and environments.
- Pastoral Ministry: Fulfill the pastoral role and platform ministry of a worship leader.
Program Details
MUS 508: Contemporary Issues in Worship and Ministry
This course exposes the student to conducting techniques for choir and band. Emphasis will be placed on the planning and execution of musical ensemble rehearsals.
MUS 518: Theology and History of Worship
This course examines key biblical passages and theological writings to develop a biblical theology of worship.
MUS 538: Musical Expression and Arts in Worship
An examination of the aesthetic components and properties of musical expression and the arts in worship.
Program Focus
The program features an in-depth yet practical study in music, worship, leadership
and theology.
Hybrid Format
The program combines online learning with two week-long residencies on CBU’s Southern
California campus.
Finish in One Year
Students begin their studies in July of one calendar year and finish in June of the
next calendar year.
Cohort Model
Students develop their gifting alongside others who share their passion and calling
for authentic and excellent worship in the church.
Distinguished Faculty
CBU's distinguished School of Performing Arts faculty includes educators and worship
leaders who combine a vast wealth of real-world ministry experience with strong scholarship
and cultural understanding.
David Toledo, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Music
Associate Dean for Educational Effectiveness in the School of Performing Arts
Office Phone: 951-552-8993
E-mail: dtoledo@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: Hawkins Music Building, Room 204
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadlines | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Priority | May 15 | November 1 |
| Standard | August 1 | December 1 |
Career Possibilities
Graduates of CBU's MA in Worship Arts program can apply their field of study to a variety of careers.
- Songwriter
- Worship Leader
- Musician
- Music Teacher
- Minister of Music
- Arranger
- Music Director
- Worship Pastor
- Private Instructor
- Composer
- Performer
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.