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Encounter the timeless splendor of the Church’s treasury of liturgical music while refining your performance or conducting skills.

The University of Mary’s graduate certificate in Sacred Music provides advanced formation for musicians and educators who have answered the call to “sing praises to the Lord . . . and give thanks to his holy name” (Ps. 30:4).

This nine-credit program combines one-on-one instruction, integrated practica, and a two-week summer residency at our main Bismarck campus to supply parish musicians and Christian music educators with a comprehensive background in the history, theory, and practice of liturgical music.

Students who are earning or plan to earn their Master of Arts in Music at Mary can easily incorporate our sacred music curriculum into their program of study.

Take the First Step

Get in touch with any questions or submit the simple application for admission.

We will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance so you can enroll and begin your classes!

At a Glance

$62,532
The average base salary for church music directors.

Program Length

3 semesters / 9 credits

Formats

Online, with a two-week summer residency at our main campus in Bismarck, ND

Tuition per Credit

$595

Is This the Degree For Me?

Who It’s For

  • Church music directors
  • Music ministry volunteers
  • Music educators at Christian schools
  • Musicians, vocalists, and conductors with a special interest in Christian devotional music

Career Paths

  • Church music director
  • Music educator
  • Church musician

What You’ll Learn

Earning your certificate in Sacred Music from Mary will equip you to:

  • Serve with a deep awareness of the theoretical and historical underpinnings of liturgical music
  • Excel as a performer or conductor in Christian ministerial or educational settings

Program Details

Program Information

Please visit our catalog for admission requirements and a full list of our courses.

Your first step is to get in touch with any questions or submit the simple application for admission. We will assist you every step of the way toward acceptance so you can enroll and begin your classes!

If you are serving or have served our country, we sincerely thank you. Our military services office is here to work closely with active duty, retired, reserve, and eligible family members qualified for military benefits. Learn how we can help you with the application process and review the benefits you have earned.

For a full list of fees, visit our Tuition and Fees page.

The University of Mary is committed to putting your educational goals within reach. Learn what scholarships you qualify for.

We welcome students from various backgrounds, including transfer students from institutionally accredited colleges and universities recognized by the US Dept. of Education and those with military or career and work experience. 

How do I show my previous college, military, or work experience?

  • Official transcripts (if applicable) from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 should be submitted directly to the Office of Admissions.
    • Did you graduate from the University of Mary? Then we’ll get your Mary transcript for you!
    • At most other schools, you can request transcripts by going to the National Student Clearinghouse or by contacting the registrar’s office. 
      • Have your transcripts sent to:

        Office of Admissions

        University of Mary

        7500 University Drive

        Bismarck, ND 58504
      • Or request to send electronic transcripts to registrar@umary.edu.
  • Students with previous career or work experience can earn credits for prior learning.
    • You can choose to test for prior learning credits — we convert your test scores into college credit.
    • You can request a portfolio review for prior learning credits. You’ll assemble documentation to show your experience, which will be reviewed and evaluated by an experienced faculty member.
  • Military experience can count towards a degree.
WHAT WILL I NEED TO APPLY?
  • All of our programs require you to fill out the general application form in addition to submitting the application fee and your transcripts.
  • Any program-specific requirements you’ll need to submit in addition to the items listed above can be found in our catalog.

At the University of Mary, we review every application on an individual basis, ensuring that the materials you submit are evaluated with care and attention. Reach out to us if you have any questions in filling out your application.

Get Started Today

Apply Online