Program Overview
Rooted in biblical worship theology, this degree fuses advanced musicianship, conducting, technology, and ministry practice. Students master harmony, sight-singing, worship band leadership, audio/visual tech, and pastoral care, then synthesize it all through two practicums, a ten-week field experience, and a senior recital project. Graduates are equipped to shape Christ-centered, artistically excellent worship in any church or ministry context.
Program at a Glance
Credential: B.M. in Worship Leadership
Total hours: 120 semester credits
Delivery: Residential studios & ensembles | Fully online
Length: 4 years full-time (15 credits/term)
Start terms: August | January | May
Ready?
Apply TodayProgram at a Glance
Credential: B.M. in Worship Leadership
Total hours: 120 semester credits
Delivery: Residential studios & ensembles | Fully online
Length: 4 years full-time (15 credits/term)
Start terms: August | January | May
Ready?
Apply TodayDegree Requirements
1. Orientation – 3 credits
• FYI 101 Student Success
2. General Education – 33 credits
Includes Music History I-II (MH 403, 404) • SCI 201 Biology • MU 202 Basic Worship Tech or MUE 360 Classroom Tech (counts in major & Gen-Ed)
3. Biblical & Theological Foundation – 12 credits
4. Music Core – 69 credits
Music Theory (16) MT 101-104, 201-204
Conducting (9) MC 210, 310, 410
Music History & Literature (8) MH 201, 403, 404
Applied Music (12) 8 credits principal (3 upper-level) + 4 credits secondary; MUS 101 Recital Lab every semester; MUS 460 Senior Recital
Ensembles (8) large or small ensemble every term (3 credits count in Gen-Ed)
Worship Concentration Core (14) MU 300 Foundations of Worship • MU 404 Worship Leadership Practice
• MU 208 Worship Team & Rhythm Section • MU 402 Advanced Tech for Worship • MV 411 Vocal Pedagogy
Worship Electives (choose 8) e.g., Guitar for Contemporary Worship, Use of Arts in Worship, Orchestration, Songwriting, World Music, Worship Field Study (2 credits must be applied voice if voice isn’t your principal)
Field Experiences (2) MU 203 & 204 Practicums
Summative Experiences (2) MU 415 Field Experience Practicum + MU 420 Senior Recital Project (0 credits)
5. Open Electives – 18 credits
Choose courses or a minor to reach 120 credits.
What You’ll Learn
Graduates combine biblical worship theology with professional musicianship, lead ensembles and rhythm sections confidently, deploy current worship technology, arrange and select congregational music, and shepherd congregations through creative, theologically rich worship services.
Career & Graduate Pathways
Worship pastor / minister of music
Music-media or production director
Christian artist, songwriter, or arranger
Conference or camp worship leader
M.A. in Music & Worship Leadership or seminary study
What You’ll Learn
Graduates combine biblical worship theology with professional musicianship, lead ensembles and rhythm sections confidently, deploy current worship technology, arrange and select congregational music, and shepherd congregations through creative, theologically rich worship services.
Career & Graduate Pathways
Worship pastor / minister of music
Music-media or production director
Christian artist, songwriter, or arranger
Conference or camp worship leader
M.A. in Music & Worship Leadership or seminary study
Ready to start your journey?
Let us help you. Fill out a form or contact us at: 800-328-2660 ext. 460 or admissions@buf.edu