Capital University

What you'll study

This programme integrates practical musicianship, academic study and supervised ministry. Core areas include liturgical theology and worship studies, hymnody and congregational song, sacred music history, choral and congregational conducting, organ and keyboard skills, composition and arranging for worship, and practice-based modules such as internship or practicum in a worship setting.

• Liturgical Theology and Worship Practice — study of worship patterns, theological foundations of liturgy and contextual approaches to leading services.
• Hymnody and Song Repertoire — historical and contemporary repertoire for congregational singing, hymn text analysis and hymn selection.
• Choral Conducting and Ensemble Work — technique, rehearsal methodology and leadership of choirs and vocal ensembles.
• Organ/Keyboard Studies — individual tuition and repertoire development for service playing and accompaniment.
• Composition and Arranging for Worship — creating adaptive music resources for different worship contexts and ensembles.
• Research Project or Capstone — an applied research dissertation or creative project that addresses a practical need within religious music or worship practice.
• Practicum/Internship — supervised placement with local congregations or chaplaincy settings to develop leadership skills and professional experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in music or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience in church music. A demonstrable background in performance, ensemble leadership or liturgical involvement is required.

• Academic transcripts from prior degree-level study.
• A performance audition appropriate to the applicant's primary instrument or voice (recorded or live).
• A written statement of purpose outlining worship experience, vocational aims and research interests.
• References, including at least one academic or professional referee familiar with the applicant's musical work.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide evidence of prior study in theology or to take introductory bridging modules if theological formation is limited.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across a range of religious and cultural settings. Typical roles include church music director, organist, choir conductor, worship leader, liturgical planner, composer/arranger for sacred music, and music educator in faith-based schools. The degree also prepares candidates for leadership in chaplaincy teams, cathedral music programmes, community arts organisations and further academic study at doctoral level.

Why study at Capital University

Capital University’s Conservatory of Music offers specialist resources and an environment shaped by longstanding connections with local churches and denominational bodies. Students benefit from one-to-one tuition, regular performance and worship-leading opportunities, access to historic instruments and ensembles, and supervised placements that connect academic study with real-world ministry. The programme’s blend of rigorous musicianship and theological reflection is designed to prepare graduates for sustainable, informed leadership in diverse worship contexts.