Certificate in Worship
The Certificate in Worship prepares Duke Divinity students to engage in practical formation and theoretical reflection on the worship of God in Christian congregations. The certificate serves a variety of students who carry the responsibility of weekly worship planning and leadership for their congregations (as church musicians, worship leaders, pastors, or in other roles) as well as students interested in the interdisciplinary academic study of worship. Through the courses offered within the certificate program, students will:
- broaden their perspective on the history and theology of Christian worship,
- enhance their capacities to plan and lead worship, and
- reflect on the connection between worship and the broader life of the church.
The approach in teaching is inclusive of the broad range of Christian worship across history, geography, language, and race and ethnicity, thus courses engage with a variety of worship styles, denominations, and traditions.
The certificate is open to students in the M.Div. (residential and hybrid), M.A., and M.T.S. degree programs.
M.Div. (residential and hybrid), M.T.S., and M.A. Students
- Completion of three courses in Liturgical Studies (LTS) as described in detailed course requirements
- Attendance at one annual worship-focused ministry event each year after declaring for the certificate (minimum of one attendance at an event), approved by the faculty advisor for the certificate;
- (M.Div. only) A minimum of one year’s participation in an advanced spiritual formation group in worship; and
- (M.Div. only) A field education component or contextual engagement project with an emphasis in worship;
- (M.T.S. only) A thesis that on a topic related to the certificate, as negotiated with faculty director.
Find detailed information about requirements and courses for current students (NetID required) »
For more information, contact:
Lester Ruth
Research Professor of Christian Worship
lruth@div.duke.edu