Master of Sacred Music

The Master of Sacred Music degree prepares pastoral musicians for service in the church.

The program includes rigorous musical, historical, biblical, and theological study. Courses include worship, church music, hymnody, literature, applied music, composing, arranging, conducting, repertoire, and children's choirs.

Two majors are possible: organ and conducting.

Objectives of the M.S.M. degree

• Build upon and refine existing musical skills
• Equip those preparing for music and worship leadership with theological and liturgical understanding
• Provide study alongside peers who will later be partners in the leadership of worship
• Give opportunity for studying other ministry skills along with the worship and music concentration

Application Procedure

To apply, review application procedures and submit the application form, official undergraduate transcripts, an Autobiography/Faith Statement, a $50 application fee, and four letters of recommendation (the three included in the application packet, plus the Musician Recommendation). Admission to the program requires a bachelor's degree in music, and all applicants must complete an audition.

MSM applicants may now receive their Musician Recommendation online by using this form. The printable version is still available for download here.

Auditions

Applicants must perform an audition with the seminary's Master of Sacred Music director, and with members of the St. Olaf music faculty.

Audition Schedules

The 2010 MSM Auditions have been completed and admission for the Fall 2010 semester is closed at this time. 2011 Audition dates will be posted no later than May 1.

You must contact the M.S.M. office to sign up for an audition and receive the audition requirements.

All materials including the application, application fee, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, musician recommendation and autobiography/statement of faith must be received in the Admissions Office by the date specified above.

Persons wishing to apply to the MSM program who are seeking admission prior to Fall 2010 should contact the MSM office.

Program Details

Students in the M.S.M. program have the unique opportunity for musical and theological study with the faculties of both Luther Seminary and St. Olaf College. View the Academic Catalog for more program details.

Student Worship Projects

Many students participate in developing and presenting a worship project during their course of studies.

Course Schedules

View the current schedules and key dates.

Curriculum

In addition to applied courses in their major (organ or conducting), students must take core courses in theology, history, biblical studies, and church music.

Contact

Contact Paul Westermeyer, Director of the M.S.M. program, for more details.