The Sacred Music Certificate is a 15-hour program that studies elements of Christian sacred music and worship (hymnody/sacred song, worship/liturgy, sacred choral literature, and conducting). It also includes an internship experience in a local church. Any student pursuing a music degree may enroll in the Sacred Music Certificate program. Upon completion of the coursework, participants receive a Sacred Music Certificate from the University of Evansville.

International travel to the University of Evansville's Harlaxton Campus through the British Cathedrals and the Arts course is available to all Sacred Music Certificate students.

Sacred Music Certificate Curriculum

The Sacred Music Certificate course work includes study of the basic elements of sacred music as listed above. Course requirements for the Sacred Music Certificate include:

• The Church and Music (MUS 190): A historical survey of Sacred Music as it has developed in the Middle East, Eastern and Western Europe, Africa, North America, and the Far East. .



• Sacred Music Practicum (MUS 393/394): Practical experience in various established church music programs in the Evansville region. Students work as assistants to the Music Director of a church under the supervision of a University of Evansville faculty member.



• Christian Hymnody (MUS 259): A historical survey of Christian song from earliest times to the present with emphasis on the following areas: Plainsong, the Lutheran Chorale, the Genevan Psalm, English and American hymnody.[Brochure] [Syllabus]



• Sacred Choral Literature (MUS 345): An overview of major works from the sacred choral repertory, relating specific works to various periods of history.



• Christian Worship (ID 354): An interdisciplinary course about Christian worship as it has evolved through the centuries.




Optional courses that may also be studied include:

• British Cathedrals and the Arts (ID 235): An introduction to English architecture, stained glass, liturgy, sculpture, bell making and change ringing, and organ and choral music, as they are all part of the rich artistic heritage of the Christian Church. The course culminates in a two-week study trip to England after the end of the spring semester. [Brochure] [Syllabus]

• Service Playing and Improvisation (MUS 495/496): Practical skills for the church organist: hymn playing, chant accompaniment, anthem accompaniment, score reading, conducting from the console, and improvisation.

The organ curriculum prepares students to complete elements of the certification program (Service Playing/Colleague)offered by the American Guild of Organists. The University of Evansville chapter of the American Guild of Organists was established in 1961.

UE Sacred Music Series

The University of Evansville sponsors an ongoing series of Sacred Music events. These include lectures, hymn festivals, services, and master-classes. For information about one such event, click [here].

Details about these events are available at this site.