Director of Parish Music (DPM) Program

A Director of Parish Music (DPM) is a called and commissioned musician prepared for team ministry in a congregation. A DPM often helps to plan a vibrant worship life with the pastor(s), and is usually responsible for other programs in the congregation that relate to music. They may lead from an organ or piano, guitar, as conductor, teacher, or in various other ways. They lead in various styles and formats. He or she may become involved in other areas of ministry within the day-to-day ministry of the church. The Director of Parish Music Program equips leaders for ministry who are passionate about the Gospel and the role music and worship can have in sharing the good news of Jesus.

CUI Program Distinctives

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

DPM Program Requirements

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.
Major Requirements: Church Music Major (54-56 units)
Christ College Certificate Requirements (21 units)
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)

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.

Director of Parish Music (DPM) Articles

Director of Parish Music (DPM): Brandon Li ’18

By Brandon Lee ’18

CUI gave me a lot of practical experience leading music in worship. There were so many worship services to participate in: chapel, student-led services, retreats, and smaller group events. Our professors were intentional about placing us in local church environments as well. One church might be small, another large with lots of technology. We even led worship for thousands in a stadium for the National Youth Gathering.
DPM Alumnus Profile: Christian Guebert

As a child I attended church, but I never dreamed I would work at one! At heart, I am a composer and I always have seen myself writing music.