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Music and Worship

B.A.

Academics Music and Worship Hero

At Ozark Christian College in Joplin, Missouri, we understand that leading the church in worship requires musical skill, theological depth, personal conviction, and pastoral wisdom. As you earn the Bachelor of Arts in Music and Worship, you'll grow in singing and playing an instrument, work with creative teams in planning worship services, gain experience with digital audio and video equipment, and explore the biblical and historical foundations of worship.

  • 4 years

    EXPECTED DEGREE DURATION

  • 129

    TOTAL PROGRAM CREDITS

  • 30+

    Hours of Bible Courses

Possible Job Opportunities

  • History of Ancient Israel

    A study of the Old Testament historical books Genesis through Joshua focusing on chronological history. The course includes summaries and introductions to the various books, questions over the text, and information about the redemptive plan of God to save the world. Students will learn the facts of the text through lecture, discussions, assigned reading, and projects.

  • Life of Christ

    Semester one covers the beginnings of the gospel up through the first year of ministry. It concentrates on the birth narratives, early Judean ministry, and early Galilean ministry. Major sermons: Jesus’ deity and credentials (John 5) and the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Students will concentrate on learning Jesus’ primary identity and proclamation of the kingdom.

  • Romans

    An exegetical study of Paul’s letter to the Romans based on grammatical, socio-cultural, literary, theological, and pastoral insights from both the Greek and English texts with special emphasis on the nature of the gospel of salvation in Christ and its impact on the shape of Christian communities in the first-century and today. Students will learn the purposes and arguments of Romans as well as the details of key texts and their theological and pastoral implications.

  • Principles of Interpretation

    A study of the universal principles of interpretation as applied to interpreting language. Students will learn how to accurately interpret and apply the Bible.

  • Essentials of Christian Mission and Culture

    Studies fundamental areas of missions. Surveying world needs, tracing missions throughout Scripture, and studying the overview of the many roles of mission work around the world. Students develop both a broad and biblical perspective on missions. Lecture, media, reading, and discussion.

  • Principles of Discipleship and Evangelism

    This course is a critical examination of evangelism and discipleship as one continuous development of the spiritual life. Students will be given models, strategies, and biblical examples that both individuals and churches can use to help people grow to become fully devoted followers of Jesus. The class will include lecture, discussion, case studies, and course assignments.

Looking for a full list of courses?

View the complete course information in our catalog.

Music and Worship Program Description and Outcomes

  • Program Description

    The Bachelor of Arts in Music and Worship degree equips students to serve as worship arts pastors in churches and parachurch ministries. The degree focuses on preparing students to lead with musical excellence, theological depth, and effective interpersonal pastoral skills. With a solid foundation in music theory, students develop vocal, guitar, and piano skills.

    The program emphasizes the importance of planning and leading biblically rich and culturally sensitive worship services. Students are expected to put what they are learning into practice by participating in ministry opportunities both on and off campus.

  • Program Outcomes

    Students completing the BA in Music and Worship (BAMW) will be able to:

    1. Articulate the history and biblical theology of worship practices while adapting and applying them to current worship contexts.

    2. Plan and lead cohesive worship services for various contexts.

    3. Recruit, disciple, and lead a creative arts team while serving alongside other ministry staff members.

    4. Create musical arrangements for worship and lead a team in rehearsal.

    5. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the production equipment needed for modern worship.

    6. Demonstrate vocal and instrumental proficiency for leading worship.

Meet Your Faculty Contact

  • “The worship arts program prepares students to lead the church in worship with musical excellence, theological depth, and pastoral wisdom. OCC's unique emphasis on biblical studies coupled with our commitment to creative and musical excellence gives students the opportunity to develop as effective worship and creative arts leaders.”
    Matt Stafford 2023 square
    Matt Stafford Worship and Creative Arts Director | Worship Professor

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Apply for free and let’s start the conversation.

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