Students learn to lead worship music with a master’s degree in sacred music from Perkins School of Theology at SMU.

Graduate programs

Master of Sacred Music

Move fully into the life of service to which God has called you.

Program format

In-person

Commitment

Full time or part time; supervised practicum or thesis project may be required

Duration

Two-plus years

Overview

The Master of Sacred Music degree will prepare students for professional music leadership in the church and academic work in church music. Music and theology courses, professional practicum and leadership development, and other opportunities prepare students to engage with a wide range of literature, performance practices and skills, and to apply this learning in both academic and church settings.

This program is jointly sponsored by Perkins School of Theology and the Division of Music of Meadows School of the Arts as preparation for professional music leadership in the church and, if one chooses, ordination as a deacon.

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Student success

For Academic Year 2023-2024, 97% of reporting graduates were employed, in the military, enrolled in continuing education, or engaged in volunteer service.

This program prepares you to excel in the following areas and professions:

  • Worship arts
  • Sacred and liturgical performance
  • Music education
  • Faith-based nonprofits
  • Christian music production
  • Faith-based media
  • Worship design
  • Cultural stewardship

Top 20%

Best National Universities

U.S. News & World Report (2026)

98%

of Perkins graduate students receive scholarships

50%

of M.S.M. students represent a wide range of Christian traditions outside of The United Methodist Church

Student stories

Fernando Berwig Silva

Fernando Berwig Silva

“The program really is set at the intersection [of] music and theology…Perkins and Meadows…the best of two great worlds.”

Rosedanny Ortiz found her calling with Perkins School of Theology at SMU.

Rosedanny Ortiz

A proud native of Puerto Rico discovered her calling to ministry after an unexpected shift toward theology.

Requirements

  1. Application
  2. Application fee
  3. Official transcripts
  4. English language proficiency documentation (if applicable)
  5. A cumulative G.P.A. of at least 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) is required for admission to the Master of Sacred Music program. The concentration in Liturgical Musicology requires a cumulative G.P.A. of at least 3.5 for admittance and that the student maintain at least a 3.5 for all graduate work. Although one application is made through Perkins School of Theology, successful applicants for the M.S.M. program are accepted by both the Division of Music in the School of the Arts and the School of Theology.

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Tuition & financial aid

Tuition and costs

Explore the cost breakdown of tuition for graduate programs.

Financial aid

Find information on scholarships and financial support available at SMU.

Curriculum & learning

Featured courses

CM 8107

Youth Choir and the Church

A study of the philosophy and techniques for working with church youth choirs, including recruiting, touring and building effective groups.

CM 8330

Congregational Song History and Theology (Hymnology)

A survey of congregational song, focused on understanding the connection between congregational music making and theologizing in church music.

MUTH 6300

Analysis of Contemporary Music

Detailed analysis of recent music written in a variety of styles and using diverse techniques.

Outside of the classroom

Faculty

Perkins professors will help you clarify your own understanding of the Christian faith, challenge you to examine ideas new to you and prepare you for faithful leadership in the church of the 21st century.

Facilities

Perkins’ facilities offer sacred spaces for instruction in preaching and teaching.

M.Div. and M.A.M. students benefit from the historic Bridwell Library at Perkins School of Theology.

Bridwell Library

This historical library includes a full range of theological, biblical and historical materials relating to the development of Christianity.

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Students called to ministry will appreciate the historic Perkins Chapel on campus at Perkins School of Theology at SMU.

Perkins Chapel

The chapel plays a vital role in the spiritual formation and education of those preparing for leadership in the Christian church.

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Frequently asked questions