Program Description

The Doctor of Sacred Music at GEA University of San Marco is a terminal professional degree designed for church musicians, worship leaders, and educators seeking to combine academic excellence with spiritual formation. The program fosters advanced study in liturgical music, theology, worship arts, composition, and ethnomusicology. Delivered fully online, it aligns with the academic standards of ABHE, Florida SCNS codes, and SARA distance education protocols.

Program Objectives

• Equip graduates with theological and musical expertise for leadership in sacred music ministries.

• Develop scholarly musicians capable of producing original research and compositions.

• Train educators and worship leaders in liturgical traditions and contemporary practice.

• Promote the integration of theology, culture, and musical expression within a Christian worldview.

Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree in music, theology, worship studies, or related field.

• GPA of 3.0 or higher.

• Portfolio of musical works or recordings.

• Statement of purpose and ministry goals.

• Two academic or professional references.

• Interview (via Zoom).

Program Curriculum

Year 1

MUS 7101 – Theology of Worship and Music (3 cr)

MUS 7200 – Advanced Choral and Instrumental Techniques (3 cr)

RES 7001 – Research Design in Music and Theology (3 cr)

MUS 7215 – Sacred Music Composition and Arrangement (3 cr)

Year 2

MUS 7302 – Liturgy and Historical Traditions of Worship (3 cr)

EDU 7104 – Curriculum Design for Worship Arts Education (3 cr)

MUS 7350 – Global and Cross-Cultural Worship Music (3 cr)

RES 7100 – Dissertation Proposal Seminar (3 cr)

Year 3+

RES 7990 – Doctoral Dissertation in Sacred Music (12 cr)

RES 7995 – Oral Defense and Final Project Presentation (3 cr)

Program Delivery

This program is delivered fully online through a secure LMS, with asynchronous modules, virtual rehearsals, and Zoom-based mentorship.

• Learning formats: Readings, video lectures, virtual ensembles, score submission, composition workshops.

• Assessments: Essays, musical projects, peer review, final dissertation.

• Faculty: Experienced theologians and sacred music professionals.