Sacred music programs teach people to appreciate and perform devotional music. Students learn concepts such as melody, rhythm, and harmony. They study voice and usually at least one instrument. They learn to sing and play solos and also to perform in ensembles and choral groups.

Sacred music holds an honored place in all religions. It includes songs and chants in Hebrew, Gregorian and Tibetan chants, the Islamic call to prayer, compositions by Bach and Handel, and even contemporary Christian rock. In Christianity, sacred music is considered a ministry. For that reason, many sacred music programs are available in schools of religion as well as schools of music.

Most sacred music programs allow you to choose between vocal performance or musical instruments. This means that you can focus on singing pieces in ensembles or solo. Or, you can concentrate your studies on playing traditional sacred music instruments, such as the handbell, piano, or organ. In addition, some programs offer concentrations in planning music and liturgies for church services or conducting. No matter what you concentrate on, most programs require courses in musical theory, music history, and religion.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's and master's degrees in sacred music. Usually they part of the school of music or associated with the divinity school. Community colleges often offer the first two years of study. Students may be able to transfer the credits to a four-year program. If you want to teach college or direct research programs, you will need a doctoral degree.

You will need four years of full-time study after high school to complete a bachelor's degree. The master's degree takes one or two more years. The doctoral degree takes about three to five years after the master's degree.

Students who major in sacred music may concentrate on performing, conducting, or composing. Depending on their school, they may specialize in music that originates in religions other than Christianity.