Master in Sacred Music, Online Practical Track

Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, offers a student-focused experience with a strong emphasis on personalized learning and career readiness. Founded in 1865, Rider combines small class sizes and engaged faculty to support undergraduate and graduate study across business, arts, sciences and professional programs. The campus fosters community involvement, leadership development and experiential learning to help students prepare for their chosen professions.

The university is recognised for hands-on learning through internships, research, and partnerships with industry that enhance employability. Faculty mentorship and applied coursework ensure students gain practical skills and real-world experience while pursuing academic goals. Rider’s programs are designed to balance theory and practice, enabling graduates to enter the workforce with confidence and relevant competencies.

International students at Rider are welcomed into a close-knit campus community with support for academic transition, visa processes and cultural integration. The university offers services to help students succeed academically and socially, from advising to career counselling and campus organizations. Prospective international applicants should review program offerings and admissions guidance to find the pathway that best fits their academic interests and career plans.

The Master in Sacred Music, Online Practical Track, is a Master's degree for practicing church musicians who cannot attend classes on campus. This online program takes 2 years to complete and is taught in English. It focuses on the practical aspects of making music and developing leadership skills in a community setting.

Students in this program learn about liturgical excellence and spiritual depth through online courses and projects. They explore new ways to make music and lead worship services, and they develop skills to work effectively in a community setting. The program is interdenominational, so students from different backgrounds can learn from each other.

Graduates of this online program can become Music Ministers, Worship Coordinators, Church Musicians, Music Educators, or Choir Directors. They can work in churches, schools, or other organizations, using their skills to create meaningful music experiences and lead worship services.