Northwestern College announces new music ministry degree

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• Short intro to the music ministry degree

ST.PAUL, MN (01/14/2011)(readMedia)-- Northwestern College announces the addition of a new NASM- (National Association of Schools of Music) accredited music degree with an emphasis in music ministry, beginning fall 2011. The Bachelor of Science in Music (Music Ministry) will equip students to serve in church music ministry and worship leadership roles.

The degree is built on the essentials of musical excellence, biblical theology and practical training. A four-semester sequence of practical courses in Music Ministry will be taught by faculty who are active worship leaders in the Twin Cities.

"For several years, the music department has wanted to offer a degree in Music Ministry, preparing graduates for vocations such as worship leaders or church musicians," said Jeremy Kolwinska, chair of the Northwestern Department of Music. "Our goal with this degree was to be 'convergent,' drawing on the best practices to prepare students for vocational service in today's churches.

"In creating the degree, we felt it was important to give students a strong background in musical training, as so much of worship in today's churches involves music."

Through the Music Ministry program, students will gain practical experiences and/or observations from the field and will complete an 80-hour internship at a local church. Students will be able to put together an individualized set of electives to fit their calling and interests. Elective courses include: Leadership in Ministry, Drama and Ministry, Choral Arranging, Pastoral Ministry, and various classes focused around children, family, youth and early adult ministry.

"The content of the degree was created by reviewing similar programs around the country and the NASM standards," added Kolwinska. "We also surveyed a diverse group of church musicians and worship leaders from around the country to get their input into the courses to include."

Visit the Northwestern Department of Music for more information about the new Music Ministry major as well as admission process and requirements.

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About Northwestern College

Founded in 1902, Northwestern College is a private Christian liberal arts college in St. Paul, Minn. offering more than 50 undergraduate majors, two master's degrees and several associate degree and certificate programs. More than 3,000 students representing 31 states and 28 countries are enrolled in Northwestern's traditional undergraduate and graduate and continuing education programs in North and South America. Northwestern College exists to provide Christ-centered higher education equipping students to grow intellectually and spiritually, to serve effectively in their professions, and to give God-honoring leadership in the home, church, community, and world. Visit www.nwc.edu.