Worship and Music (MA)
Cairn University’s online MA in Music and Worship prepares church musicians and ministry professionals through a robust study of worship theology and history, paired with an industry-leading, practical study of music technology delivered in a fully online format.
The program blends rigorous theological training with advanced musical skills to lead impactful worship ministries in diverse church settings.
Our Distinctives
Cairn is a place that faithfully upholds the authority and centrality of Christ and the Bible in its programs, curriculum, community, and ethos. Students are taught to think biblically about God, themselves, and the world in which they live.
*Cairn University Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities
Gospel-Centered + Cutting-Edge Tech
Deep biblical theology of worship paired with advanced training in music production, arranging, and worship technology.
Biblically Rooted
At Cairn we are rooted in the Scriptures, it is the foundation of everything we do. Whether it is in the classroom, on the field, or out in our local community.
NASM-Accredited, Expert Faculty
Nationally accredited since 1972 by NASM; taught by active, credentialed worship leaders and musicians.
Hands-On Capstone Project
Produce and present four original arranged/recorded songs, readying you for roles like Worship Pastor, Music Director, or Creative Arts Leader.
Program Description
The Master of Arts in Worship and Music degree from Cairn University equips you for worship ministry in the church with expert musical instruction and a gospel-centered theological education as you learn to lead worship in multiple contexts. With an emphasis on technology and production, you will be equipped for a variety of positions and organizations, including local churches, conferences, and camps.
Core Curriculum Courses
- MUS 601 – Advanced Worship Technology Credits: 3
- MUS 602 – Leading Ensembles in the Local Church Credits: 3
- MUS 603 – Research in Worship and Music Credits: 3
- MUS 604 – Applied Ethnomusicology in Worship Credits: 3
- MUS 605 – Advanced Contemporary Arranging for Worship Credits: 3
- MUS 606 – African American Worship Credits: 3
- MUS 607 – Planning Worship Theologically Credits: 3
- MUS 651 – Biblical Foundations of Worship Credits: 3
- MUS 691 – Worship and Ministry Project Credits: 3
Learn more:
Program Outcomes
In this program, students will:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge through research and coursework related to the historical, practical, theological, and biblical understanding of worship in the Christian church.
- Construct, plan, organize, and write on original research on topics related to worship ministry in the evangelical church.
- Demonstrate an ability to manage and lead with character a complex music ministry within an evangelical context.
- Present, arrange, compose, and record music using current music technology that is related to a modern music ministry context in the evangelical church.
- Appraise what makes a quality, gospel-centered, culturally, and historically informed worship service in a Christian and evangelical context.
- Formulate a comprehensive philosophy of worship, life, and ministry.
Curriculum Highlights
Highlights include:
- A Christ-centered curriculum equipping you for worship ministry.
- Study under faculty who are both highly credentialed musicians and experienced worship leaders.
- Pursue your degree while while you work 100% online.
- Access to a network of peers and professors.
- Study at a university that has taught Bible and theology for over 100 years and has been NASM-accredited since 1972.
- Complete a Capstone Project consisting of four songs, arranged and produced to demonstrate skills acquired in the program.
The MA in Worship and Music program at Cairn University is a 39 credit program. Our biblically grounded curriculum, accredited by NASM, features 7-week courses, virtual collaborations with expert faculty, and a capstone project. The program requires:
Bible/Theology Courses: 6 credits
Core Curriculum Courses: 27 credits
Specialization & Elective Courses: 6 credits
Admission Requirements
All Cairn University students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University’s doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in the
Foundational Statements.
Below are additional requirements:
- Application:
Submit the Application for Admission along with the $25 non-refundable fee.
Apply today using code faithmatters and we will waive the fee. - Transcripts: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to Cairn University.
- Personal Testimony:
Describe your conversion to Christ, spiritual growth, and church involvement. (minimum 500 words)
Audition:
- Pass an audition conducted online or in person.
Review audition requirements.
Tuition and Aid
Cairn University strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by faculty not TAs.
The tuition rate for the 2026-2027 academic year is $455/credit for full-time status. Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page.
Christian school educators and employees may be eligible for the $400/credit discounted rate. Cairn University also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with Cairn University.
Information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.
Career Paths
Graduates of Cairn University’s online MA in Music and Worship can pursue various career paths that combine theological insight, musical expertise, and leadership skills. Here are some key roles:
- Worship Pastor/Leader: Direct music and worship services in churches, blending musical performance with spiritual leadership to foster meaningful congregational worship.
- Church Music Director: Oversee music programs, including choirs, bands, and ensembles, while coordinating worship services and rehearsals.
- Creative Arts Pastor: Lead broader creative ministries, integrating music, drama, and visual arts to enhance worship experiences.
- Songwriter/Composer for Worship: Create original congregational songs, hymns, or arrangements for church services, recording, or publication.
- Christian Education Director: Develop and lead programs that integrate music and worship into educational ministries within churches or Christian schools.
- Music Ministry Consultant: Advise churches on worship planning, music selection, and program development to align with theological and cultural goals.
- Freelance Worship Artist: Perform, teach, or lead workshops at churches, conferences, or retreats, focusing on worship music and leadership.
- Academic Instructor: Teach music and worship courses at Christian colleges, seminaries, or community programs, often requiring further study (e.g., doctorate).
These roles can be pursued in various settings, including local churches, parachurch organizations, or Christian institutions, with flexibility for full-time, part-time, or bivocational work. The degree’s emphasis on theology and practical skills also supports entrepreneurial paths, such as starting a worship-focused ministry or media production.
Accreditation Information
The School of Music has also received programmatic accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music.
Cairn Online has been approved to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), which regionally oversees postsecondary online education.
“One of my favorite parts about being a Worship & Music major at Cairn was how holistic and comprehensive my education was. Not only did I receive incredible technical training as a musician, my philosophy and theology as it pertains to the arts and worship was challenged and grown immensely. I also loved that this program equipped and encouraged me to use jazz, which is my ‘heart music’ as my offering of worship.”
– Eme E.
FAQs
What is the experience like?
Our program is intentionally grounded in God’s Word. Courses are thoughtfully designed by Cairn faculty to promote deep learning and active engagement through instructor-led instruction, research-driven activities, active learning, and meaningful interactions with peers and faculty. At Cairn, the students’ education and experience is designed to shape Christian character, cultivate wisdom, and prepare them to think, live, and serve biblically in an ever-changing world.
All courses, except the research courses, are structured in seven units and delivered in accelerated 7-week terms.
Each unit contains 5–7 modular activities, including:
- Assigned readings and reading reflections
- Instructional videos from Cairn faculty
- Active learning activities
- Weekly application projects
- A component of the ongoing course research project
Faculty also schedule a few optional Zoom sessions throughout the term to connect with students and address questions.
Faculty are actively involved throughout the week—guiding learning activities, leading asynchronous discussions, grading work, and delivering personalized feedback. Online students also receive priority technical support and have access to valuable resources from the Masland Library and the Writing Lab.
Is financial aid available?
Cairn is approved to offer financial aid because of its regional accreditation. There are many options available and typically students qualify for at least one type of federal aid. Many students receive scholarships and grants that make earning their degree even more affordable. Cairn offers a variety of scholarships and discounts in addition to options for loans and grants. Please refer to this page for details.
Please note that international students are not eligible for financial aid.
Is advanced standing available for Bible and theology courses?
Advanced standing may be granted for Bible/Theology credits earned at an accredited Bible college, Christian liberal arts college or university, or seminary. Credits will be granted on a course-by-course basis.
When can I start the program?
There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July.
Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.
What are the requirements for the audition?
- Pass an audition conducted online or in person.
Review these audition requirements.
Next Steps
Information Sessions
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Interested in our MA in Worship and Music degree? Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!
Department Updates
![Debbie Lynn Wolf [400]](https://cairn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Debbie-Lynn-Wolf-400.gif)
Dr. A. Scott Watson Steps Into Full-Time Role in the School of Music
Cairn University Offering Full Tuition Scholarships for “On the Way” Band Members
