Director of Parish Music (DPM) Program

A Director of Parish Music (DPM) is a gifted music leader prepared for team ministry in a parish church setting and is certified, called, and commissioned by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). A DPM may function as a Minister of Music, an Organist or Lead Guitarist, Choral/Instrumental Conductor, Music Teacher, Worship Arts Director, Leader of Contemporary Worship, or quite often a combination of two or more of the above list.

A DPM often helps to plan a vibrant worship life with the parish pastor(s), and is usually responsible for other programs in the congregation that relate to music. Depending on interests and abilities, he/she may become involved in other areas of ministry within the church as well. Some DPM positions are part-time positions or are combined with education, youth or family ministries.

The purpose of the Director of Parish Music Program is to equip leaders for ministry who are passionate about the Gospel and the role music and worship can have in sharing the good news of Jesus. Through four to five years of coursework, co-curricular ensemble participation, and fieldwork in area churches, you will be prepared to serve effectively in a congregational setting.

CUI Program Distinctives

• Worship Arts Leadership Minor
• Excellent music faculty and staff with experience in diverse church and worship settings

DPM Program Requirements

1. General Education (54-55 units)
   • Normally completed during the first two years of attendance. The student may, if placed by examination, substitute MUS 201 in the Music major for the MUS 101 Fine Arts option in general education.
2. Major Requirements: Church Music Major (54-56 units)
3. Christ College Certificate Requirements (21 units)
4. Additional DPM Program Requirements: (7 units)
   • MUS 391: Practicum: Church Music (1 unit)
   • MUS 491/492: Senior Field Work in Church Music (6 units)
   • Students must demonstrate the following skills before graduation:
     • MUKP 202 (if piano is not the primary instrument) or MUKO 102: Keyboard Improvisation
     • MUVO 100: Voice Class (1-2 units) or MUVO 101: Private Lessons: Voice (1-2 units)

Contact Us

For more information regarding the DPM Program, please contact the Director, Dr. Carol McDaniel, at carol.mcdaniel@cui.edu or (949) 214-3416.

Current students, please note: The requirements listed here may not reflect the most current courses for this program and may not be the requirements for the catalog year you are following to complete your program. Please refer to the Academic Catalog for official requirements you must meet to qualify for a degree.