Program Overview
Belmont University's Worship Leadership major equips students to lead and participate in worship ministry through a comprehensive program that blends theological, pastoral, and practical components. The program culminates in a Bachelor of Arts degree and emphasizes personal spiritual growth and development. Graduates are prepared for careers in various ministry roles, including worship pastor, pastor, and Christian artist.
Program Outline
Worship Leadership Major, BA
Degree Overview:
The Worship Leadership major at Belmont University equips students to lead and participate in worship ministry through a comprehensive program that blends theological, pastoral, and practical components.
Objectives:
- Develop theological understanding: Students gain a deep understanding of the history, theology, and practices of Christian worship.
- Acquire practical skills: They learn the skills needed to plan, organize, and lead worship services, including music, preaching, and other elements.
- Nurture spiritual formation: The program emphasizes personal spiritual growth and development, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of ministry.
Program Description:
The Worship Leadership major culminates in a Bachelor of Arts degree and requires the completion of 128 credit hours. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in both theological and practical aspects of worship leadership.
Key Components:
- BELL Core requirements: 52 hours of general education courses
- Major requirements: 36 hours, including religion core, area of emphasis, and worship leadership practicum
- Worship Leadership Practicum: 18-21 hours of hands-on experience in planning, leading, and evaluating worship services
- Theology of Worship: Students explore the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of Christian worship.
- Worship Leadership Skills: Students develop practical skills in planning, leading, and evaluating worship services, including preaching, music ministry, and technology.
- Spiritual Formation: The program emphasizes personal spiritual growth and development through coursework, retreats, and mentorship opportunities.
Sample Courses:
- REL 1250: Introduction to New Testament and Exegetical Methods: Explores the interpretation of the New Testament and introduces biblical exegesis.
- REL 2350: Christian Doctrine: Studies the basic doctrines of the Christian faith.
- REL 2410: Spiritual Formation: Focuses on personal discipline, spiritual reading, and dream interpretation for spiritual growth.
- REL 2510: Christian Ethics: Introduces Christian Ethics, exploring its methodology, biblical foundations, and application to current social issues.
- REL 3460: Worship and Preaching: Examines the role of worship as a rehearsal of God's acts and explores principles of preaching within worship.
- REL 4470: The Practice of Worship: Provides hands-on experience in planning, organizing, and presenting corporate Christian worship.
Assessment:
The Worship Leadership program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Exams and quizzes: Assess knowledge and understanding of course material.
- Worship service projects: Provide opportunities to apply knowledge and skills in practical settings.
Teaching:
The Worship Leadership program features a dedicated faculty with expertise in theology, music, preaching, and other areas related to worship leadership. The program emphasizes small class sizes, personalized attention, and opportunities for mentorship.
Careers:
The Worship Leadership program prepares graduates for various careers in ministry, including:
- Worship Pastor/Minister
- Pastor
- Youth Pastor
- Christian Artist
- Author
- Music Director
- Church Musician
- Liturgical Director
Other:
- The Worship Leadership program offers concentrations in audio engineering, theatre, design communication, music, and video production, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests.
- The program emphasizes active participation in worship ministry through internships, service-learning opportunities, and collaborations with local churches.
- Students can choose from a variety of World Religions courses to fulfill program requirements.
