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Master of Arts in Faith-Based Music Performance

Academic unitHBIU College of Performing ArtsTotal credits60Estimated duration2 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in Faith-Based Music Performance

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced Faith-Based Music Performance core

27 credit hours

Research, assessment, and program evaluation

12 credit hours

Professional application and field experience

12 credit hours

Graduate capstone requirement

9 credit hours

The Master of Arts in Faith-Based Music Performance at HBI University is an advanced graduate degree designed for musicians seeking to refine their artistry within the context of ethical leadership and community service. The curriculum balances rigorous technical training in music performance with deep academic engagement in music theory, history, and the pedagogical application of music within various cultural and organizational settings. Students engage in advanced instrumental or vocal study while examining the role of the performing artist as a steward of cultural resources and a servant leader within the community. The program fosters a sophisticated understanding of musical excellence as a means for personal and organizational enrichment, emphasizing the alignment of artistic practice with professional ethics and service-oriented values. By integrating scholarly inquiry with performance excellence, the program prepares graduates to serve as effective practitioners who embody the intersection of high-level artistry and community-focused mission.

The 60-credit master's program provides advanced preparation in faith-based music performance theory, human behavior, ethics, assessment awareness, research, program evaluation, crisis response, leadership, referral, and faith-based music performance-support services.

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based music performance-support program; A professional training manual; A program-development and evaluation project; Another faculty-approved scholarly project.

The program is designed for completion within two academic years by students maintaining the University's prescribed full-time course load. Part-time students may require additional time.

Florida establishes a minimum of 24 semester credits beyond the bachelor's degree for a master's program. The University's 60-credit requirement is an institutional academic standard that exceeds that minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
M.A. in Faith-Based Music Performance
Total program length
60 graduate semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Two academic years of full-time study
Academic unit
HBIU College of Performing Arts
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze complex musical scores to produce technically refined and historically informed performance interpretations.
  • Evaluate the impact of musical performance on organizational culture and community engagement initiatives.
  • Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to professional performance practices and organizational stewardship.
  • Design comprehensive music programs that address the needs of diverse populations within non-profit and faith-based settings.
  • Communicate the philosophical and social significance of music as a vehicle for community development.
  • Integrate advanced pedagogical strategies into music instruction to mentor emerging students effectively.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MUS 501
  • Advanced Music Theory and Analysis
  • 4
  • Bachelor of Music or equivalent
  • PER 510
  • Applied Music Performance I
  • 4
  • None
  • MUS 520
  • Historical Perspectives in Music
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR 505
  • Foundations of Servant Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • MUS 501 — Advanced Music Theory and Analysis: This course focuses on advanced harmonic analysis and structural interpretation of Western art music. Students explore the technical nuances of compositional techniques across historical eras. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PER 510 — Applied Music Performance I: Students engage in intensive one-on-one instruction to refine technical proficiency and repertoire development. Emphasis is placed on artistic expression and professional preparation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MUS 520 — Historical Perspectives in Music: An examination of the evolution of musical styles and their sociological impact throughout history. Students analyze major movements and their relevance to current cultural practices. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CHR 505 — Foundations of Servant Leadership: This course explores the principles of servant leadership and ethical management within community-based organizations. Students reflect on their personal call to service and leadership development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MUS 530
  • Music Pedagogy and Mentorship
  • 4
  • MUS 501
  • PER 511
  • Applied Music Performance II
  • 4
  • PER 510
  • RES 540
  • Research Methods in the Arts
  • 3
  • None
  • MGT 550
  • Organizational Stewardship in Nonprofits
  • 3
  • None
  • MUS 530 — Music Pedagogy and Mentorship: This course reviews teaching strategies and the psychological dimensions of music instruction. Students develop pedagogical tools for individual and group settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PER 511 — Applied Music Performance II: Continued development of advanced performance techniques and nuanced repertoire selection. Students participate in masterclass critiques and peer assessment sessions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES 540 — Research Methods in the Arts: An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research techniques for the performing arts. Students learn to evaluate existing literature and conduct independent artistic research. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT 550 — Organizational Stewardship in Nonprofits: This course covers the financial and organizational management of community arts organizations. Students learn to apply principles of fiscal responsibility and resource management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PER 610
  • Advanced Performance Ensemble
  • 4
  • PER 511
  • MUS 620
  • Music and Cultural Engagement
  • 4
  • MUS 520
  • ETH 630
  • Ethics in Professional Practice
  • 3
  • CHR 505
  • MUS 640
  • Community Arts Program Design
  • 3
  • MGT 550
  • PER 610 — Advanced Performance Ensemble: Focuses on collaborative performance practices and professional ensemble dynamics. Students analyze the role of the musician in chamber and larger ensemble contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MUS 620 — Music and Cultural Engagement: An investigation into how music functions as a bridge between diverse community groups and organizational entities. Students study cross-cultural communication through music. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ETH 630 — Ethics in Professional Practice: Examination of ethical dilemmas in the performing arts and the application of moral frameworks. Students develop a professional code of ethics for their practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MUS 640 — Community Arts Program Design: Students learn to design, implement, and evaluate community music outreach programs. The focus is on aligning programming with organizational goals and social needs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP 699
  • Master's Thesis and Recital
  • 6
  • All core coursework
  • PER 611
  • Final Performance Residency
  • 4
  • PER 610
  • MUS 650
  • Advanced Music Literature
  • 4
  • MUS 520
  • MUS 660
  • Professional Development and Career Strategy in Music
  • 2
  • CHR 505
  • CAP 699 — Master's Thesis and Recital: The final capstone project requires a public recital and an accompanying scholarly thesis document. Students integrate their artistic research with principles of faith-informed service and character development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PER 611 — Final Performance Residency: An advanced residency experience where students apply performance and leadership skills in a professional or community setting. Students demonstrate mastery of both musical and professional administrative roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MUS 650 — Advanced Music Literature: A comprehensive study of literature related to the student's primary instrument or voice. Focuses on developing a diverse and meaningful repertoire. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MUS 660 — Professional Development and Career Strategy in Music: This course explores strategies for building a sustainable career within the professional music industry, focusing on personal branding, networking, and long-term goal setting. Students analyze market trends and develop professional portfolios to align their artistic talents with organizational opportunities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a major in music or a related field. Candidates are required to submit a formal application, official academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and an audition recording or live performance demonstrating advanced proficiency in their primary instrument or voice. A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is typically expected, though professional experience and portfolio submissions may be reviewed for holistic consideration. Thesis or Capstone Project The culminating experience for the Master of Arts in Faith-Based Music Performance is a comprehensive Master’s Thesis and Recital, worth 6 credit hours. This project requires students to produce a scholarly document that explores the theological and ethical intersections of their musical performance, alongside a public performance that demonstrates technical mastery and artistic maturity. The thesis component asks students to reflect on their role as stewards of culture and practitioners of servant leadership within their specific artistic discipline. Students are expected to integrate their research with a professional mission statement, demonstrating how their artistic work supports the goals of faith-informed service. This process ensures that students exhibit both high-level musical competency and the capacity for critical reflection on their professional character. The final deliverable serves as a testament to the student's readiness to apply ethical reasoning and biblical stewardship to the challenges and opportunities found within professional musical environments.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 60 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. In addition to coursework, students must complete the 6-credit Capstone Thesis and Recital, demonstrating both technical mastery and a clear integration of faith-informed service and ethical integrity. A faculty review committee assesses both the scholarly and performance components to ensure alignment with university standards.
  • Beyond academic achievement, students are expected to participate in community-focused service learning and university-sponsored spiritual formation activities. These requirements emphasize the cultivation of servant leadership, character development, and a commitment to professional ethics. By the conclusion of the program, students must demonstrate not only musical proficiency but also the spiritual maturity and ethical readiness required to contribute effectively to the missions of faith-based and community-oriented organizations.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Music Director for Community Organizations
  • Professional Performing Artist
  • Music Pedagogue and Private Studio Instructor
  • Non-profit Arts Administrator
  • Music Program Coordinator for Faith-Based Entities
  • Community Engagement Specialist in the Arts
  • Liturgical Arts Consultant
  • Important Notices
  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Degree abbreviation | M.A. in Faith-Based Music Performance
  • Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
  • Advanced Faith-Based Music Performance core | 27 credit hours
  • Research, assessment, and program evaluation | 12 credit hours
  • Professional application and field experience | 12 credit hours
  • Graduate capstone requirement | 9 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS 501 | Advanced Music Theory and Analysis | 4 | Bachelor of Music or equivalent
  • PER 510 | Applied Music Performance I | 4 | None
  • MUS 520 | Historical Perspectives in Music | 3 | None
  • CHR 505 | Foundations of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS 530 | Music Pedagogy and Mentorship | 4 | MUS 501
  • PER 511 | Applied Music Performance II | 4 | PER 510
  • RES 540 | Research Methods in the Arts | 3 | None
  • MGT 550 | Organizational Stewardship in Nonprofits | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PER 610 | Advanced Performance Ensemble | 4 | PER 511
  • MUS 620 | Music and Cultural Engagement | 4 | MUS 520
  • ETH 630 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 3 | CHR 505
  • MUS 640 | Community Arts Program Design | 3 | MGT 550
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP 699 | Master's Thesis and Recital | 6 | All core coursework
  • PER 611 | Final Performance Residency | 4 | PER 610
  • MUS 650 | Advanced Music Literature | 4 | MUS 520
  • MUS 660 | Professional Development and Career Strategy in Music | 2 | CHR 505

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Music Director for Community Organizations
  • Professional Performing Artist
  • Music Pedagogue and Private Studio Instructor
  • Non-profit Arts Administrator
  • Music Program Coordinator for Faith-Based Entities
  • Community Engagement Specialist in the Arts
  • Liturgical Arts Consultant

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

Important Notices

  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Degree abbreviation | M.A. in Faith-Based Music Performance
  • Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
  • Advanced Faith-Based Music Performance core | 27 credit hours
  • Research, assessment, and program evaluation | 12 credit hours
  • Professional application and field experience | 12 credit hours
  • Graduate capstone requirement | 9 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS 501 | Advanced Music Theory and Analysis | 4 | Bachelor of Music or equivalent
  • PER 510 | Applied Music Performance I | 4 | None
  • MUS 520 | Historical Perspectives in Music | 3 | None
  • CHR 505 | Foundations of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS 530 | Music Pedagogy and Mentorship | 4 | MUS 501
  • PER 511 | Applied Music Performance II | 4 | PER 510
  • RES 540 | Research Methods in the Arts | 3 | None
  • MGT 550 | Organizational Stewardship in Nonprofits | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PER 610 | Advanced Performance Ensemble | 4 | PER 511
  • MUS 620 | Music and Cultural Engagement | 4 | MUS 520
  • ETH 630 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 3 | CHR 505
  • MUS 640 | Community Arts Program Design | 3 | MGT 550
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP 699 | Master's Thesis and Recital | 6 | All core coursework
  • PER 611 | Final Performance Residency | 4 | PER 610
  • MUS 650 | Advanced Music Literature | 4 | MUS 520
  • MUS 660 | Professional Development and Career Strategy in Music | 2 | CHR 505