Master of Sacred Music

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A completed bachelor's degree: Prospective postgraduate students must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. Typically, this should be a four-year undergraduate degree.

• Minimum GPA: Rider University often requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent. 

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall band score of 6.5 or higher is commonly required, with no individual band score below 6.0.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT: A minimum total score of 79 is required.

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Rider University accept a DET score of 100 or higher as evidence of English proficiency.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A PTE score of 53 or higher is accepted.

Rider University offers various scholarship opportunities to international students to help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria. 

1. Global Leaders Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is designed for international undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. It covers a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship: International transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society may be eligible for this scholarship. It recognizes academic excellence and provides financial assistance.

3. Presidential Scholarships: Rider University awards Presidential Scholarships to top-performing international undergraduate students. These scholarships are highly competitive and provide substantial financial support.

4. Dean's Scholarship: Dean's Scholarships are available to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record. The scholarship amount varies based on academic qualifications.

5. International Achievement Award: This scholarship acknowledges the accomplishments of international undergraduate students. It is based on a combination of academic achievement and extracurricular involvement.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Rider University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's degrees. These assistantships provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for work on campus.

7. Talent Scholarships: Rider provides talent-based scholarships for students with exceptional abilities in areas such as the arts, music, and athletics. International students with exceptional talents can apply for these scholarships.

8. Honors Program Scholarships: Students accepted into Rider's Honors Program may be eligible for additional scholarships, which recognize outstanding academic achievement and commitment to intellectual growth.

9. Corporate and Foundation Scholarships: Rider University has partnerships with various corporations and foundations that offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria.

10. Study Abroad Scholarships: Rider encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. Scholarships are available to support students who wish to study in another country as part of their academic experience.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Rider University offers a distinguished Master of Sacred Music program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in sacred music leadership, worship, and music ministry. Graduates of this program are prepared to contribute to religious communities, churches, and musical organizations in various roles.  

1. Director of Sacred Music: Graduates often pursue roles as directors of sacred music in churches and religious institutions. They lead choirs, orchestras, and musical ensembles, overseeing music programs and enhancing worship experiences.

2. Music Minister: Music ministers work closely with clergy to plan and coordinate music for religious services. They may lead congregational singing, select hymns, and perform vocal or instrumental solos.

3. Choir Director: Some graduates become choir directors, leading and conducting choirs in churches or religious organizations. They are responsible for rehearsing and preparing choir members for performances.

4. Worship Leader: Worship leaders play a vital role in contemporary worship settings, leading congregations in songs and prayers during services. They create a spiritually enriching atmosphere through music.

5. Music Educator: Graduates can pursue careers in music education, teaching sacred music or music theory in schools, colleges, or religious educational institutions.

6. Music Composer or Arranger: Some graduates become composers or arrangers of sacred music, creating original compositions or arranging existing hymns and songs for worship.

7. Organist or Pianist: Organists and pianists perform during church services, accompanying congregational singing and providing instrumental music for worship.

8. Vocal Coach: Graduates with expertise in vocal music may work as vocal coaches, helping singers improve their technique and performance skills.

9. Music Therapist: Music therapists use music to address the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of individuals in healthcare settings, hospices, or rehabilitation centers.

10. Music Director for Religious Schools: Some graduates find employment as music directors in religiously affiliated schools or colleges, overseeing music programs and teaching music courses.

11. Conductor: Graduates with conducting skills may lead orchestras, chamber ensembles, or community musical groups with a sacred music focus.

12. Religious Composer: For those with a passion for composing, careers as religious composers can involve creating original music for religious services, rituals, or events.

13. Music Librarian: Music librarians manage collections of sacred music scores and resources, ensuring accessibility for music directors and performers.

14. Music Ministry Coordinator: In larger religious organizations, graduates may work as coordinators, managing music programs, scheduling performances, and collaborating with clergy.

15. Church Administrator: Graduates with strong organizational skills may serve as church administrators, overseeing various aspects of church operations, including music programs.

16. Community Outreach Coordinator: Some graduates take on roles that involve organizing musical events and outreach programs within the community to promote spiritual growth and unity.

17. Music Publisher or Editor: Graduates may find employment with music publishing companies, working as editors or publishers of sacred music collections.

18. Private Music Instructor: Those with expertise in a specific instrument or vocal technique can offer private music lessons to individuals interested in improving their skills.

19. Recording Artist or Producer: Some graduates may explore careers as recording artists or producers of sacred music albums or recordings.

20. Interfaith Music Ministry: In diverse religious settings, graduates can work in interfaith music ministry, facilitating inclusive worship experiences for people of different faiths.