Arts and Music

Undergraduate Certificate in Christian Music

CRICOS: 105896D

Picture yourself leading on stage, creating captivating compositions, and leading worship with confidence and skill. The Undergraduate Certificate in Christian Music at Alphacrucis University College equips you with the foundational knowledge needed to lead musical worship well.

Course Duration
6 Months, up to 2 years part time
Study Modes
Online Recorded, Online Live
Study Locations
Online
Start Dates
March (S1), Aug (S2)
Fees
$2,300 per subject
FEE-HELP
Subjects/Units
4

What is the Undergraduate Certificate in Christian Music?

The Undergraduate Certificate in Christian Music is a one-semester, four-subject program that introduces you to the art of leading musical worship. The course provides you an opportunity to tailor your learning experience to explore music composition, music history, and worship leading. The certificate serves as both a standalone qualification and a stepping stone to further studies in Ministry and Theology at Alphacrucis University College.

Who is this for?

Aspiring Musicians: Are you looking to build a solid foundation in music performance, theory, and worship?

Worship Leaders and Pastors: Do you want to enhance your skills and leadership in congregational music-making?

Sound like you? Why don’t you enquire about the Undergraduate Certificate of Christian Music at Alphacrucis University College.

Outcomes

Worship Leader/Pastor: Lead and coordinate music in church settings.

Music Composer and Arranger: Create and arrange music for different settings, including recording studios and live performances.

Artist and Project Manager: Manage and promote music projects and artists within the industry.

Community Music Facilitator: Use music to support community initiatives and mission-focused organisations.

I think anyone who's got Alphacrucis as a part of their journey is better off for it.

Mark Varughese, Senior Pastor Kingdomcity

Course Structure

Subjects & Units

Electives
4 Subjects
40 Credit Points
40 credit points from any Alphacrucis College AQF Level 7 subject with a MUS or WOR code
Introduction to Worship Ministry WOR101

This foundational subject offers a broad understanding of the diverse perspectives and practices within worship ministry. It addresses the role of music, arts, and corporate worship in the life of the church and the individual believer. This subject will equip students with knowledge of the theological underpinnings and contemporary expressions of worship, preparing them to effectively participate in and lead worship ministries.

Independent Study in Specific Creative Arts 1 WOR130

Everyone has their area of passion and preference. This unit is all about you being able to pursue your musical or artistic passion. Dance, drama, lighting, multimedia, sound, instrument, voice, recording, whatever it is, this unit can adapt to help you set and achieve your goals. Learn new knowledge and skills. Master your craft. Challenge your capacity. Grow as an artist.

Worship, Arts and Church History WOR205

Through this subject, students will delve into the complex relationship between the Christian church and the creative arts across centuries. This subject examines how the arts have been both championed and constrained by the church. Students will analyse historical music and arts from biblical times to the modern era, gaining insights into their influence on faith and church practices.

Worship in Comparative Religious Contexts WOR215

As compelling, engaging and consuming as our local church world is... we don't live in a bubble! All humans worship. What does that worship look like for other religions? What impact does that have on the way we worship? This unit explores these questions and many more, from our Judaeo-Christian heritage to the comparative worship of Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and other world religions.

Lyrics and Theology WOR220

The words we sing are extraordinarily powerful. Many authors have had things to say about the lyrics of songs sung in church but the arguments are particularly partisan and heated in our present day. Contemporary congregational songs, with their popular musical influences are a hot topic. Are their lyrics inferior to traditional hymns? How should we approach their analysis and assessment? What would Jesus sing?

Practicum in Worship Ministry WOR301
On the job training... there's nothing like it! This practicum is not just about free help to your church's worship team; it is about encountering the on-the-ground issues that arise daily in building, managing and leading a worship team. Not only will you actively engage with the worship ministry, you will also analyse and assess its strengths and weaknesses and contribute to the improvement of the department.
Worship in Contemporary Context WOR310

The unique nature and prominence of contemporary worship music in today's churches is worthy of study. It is a phenomenon that has accompanied the emergence of megachurches, created a substantial sub-genre of the popular music industry and crossed cultural and language barriers. It is certainly necessary to understand what is going on, but equally important to assess its theological, historical, sociological, ecclesial and musical implications.

Worship Leadership WOR320

This transformative subject is designed for those aspiring to lead musical worship effectively within their congregations. It combines theological insights with practical skills, from managing rehearsals to leading live worship sets. Students will also learn to communicate strategically pre- and post-service and reflect on their leadership for continuous improvement.

Music History MUS101

Explore a comprehensive look into the evolution of music throughout both global and Australian contexts. This unit covers three significant areas: Western Art Music from the Middle Ages to today, the development of Popular Music, and the rich history of Australian Indigenous music. These topics will equip students to discuss and analyse music's transformative journey through time.

Musicology MUS201

The field of musicology dives into the intricate study of music and its complexities. This unit provides students with the analytical tools necessary to examine music through various contexts—historical, cultural, and performative. It prepares you to articulate how music is constructed and perceived, enhancing your critical listening and discussion skills.

Write Songs MUS205

Through this unit, you will sharpen your songwriting skills, from lyrical construction to melody formation. You will learn to analyse contemporary songs, develop appropriate content for various genres, and effectively use poetic techniques to enhance storytelling in your music. This comprehensive approach not only boosts your creative process but also guides you through arranging, recording, and understanding the legal aspects of songwriting.

Music Performance MUS230

This immersive subject enhances your stage presence and technical skills through practical experience and peer feedback. Engage in solo and ensemble performances across diverse genres, while focusing on key techniques such as managing performance stress and understanding audience perception. This unit ideal for those looking to deepen their performance repertoire and professional readiness in a supportive, dynamic environment.

Music and Technology MUS307

There is a dynamic relationship between musical expression and technological innovation. This unit explores how technology shapes music production, recording, and distribution. Learn to assess and apply various technologies—from PA systems to digital audio workstations—preparing you to design technologically integrated live events.

Music Ensembles MUS335

Understanding how to perform effectively in a music ensemble can significantly enhance a musician's versatility and leadership skills. This advanced subject equips students to lead as musicians, directors, or conductors, mastering the art of organising rehearsals, critiquing performances, and engaging audiences. It prepares musicians to excel in group dynamics and performance management.

Composition and Songwriting MUS340

Harnessing creative potential, this subject equips students with the skills to compose original music across various genres. Students will learn to dissect and understand musical elements such as pitch, rhythm, and texture. By synthesising these components, students will be able to express unique musical ideas, select harmonies, and structure their compositions effectively to achieve desired emotional impact.

Work-Integrated Learning

Work-Integrated Learning may be undertaken through various Professional Practice and Professional Experience subjects at AC. These subjects seek to create a direct linkage between the learning, skills and values engaged in lectures, and the reflection which occurs when these are applied in real-life settings. These work-based training subjects comprise of instruction, academic assessment and a placement in a workplace for each subject.

Students are usually required to find their own workplace/ employer/ mentor to be approved by AC. In some cases, a new aspect within a student’s current paid employment may be suitable as a work placement.

More Information

For more information and details of previous course structures see Student Handbook.

*You can also use the Subject & Unit Search to explore the subjects (including electives) available to enrol in for this course and can filter by subject area and level.
For a full list of course dates for new and continuing students, please see our Timetables.

What people say

  • Learning Outcomes

    Knowledge

    Demonstrated:

    • knowledge of key issues and practices within the discipline area;

    • knowledge of the general research principles and methods used in the discipline area;

    Skills

    Demonstrated ability to:

    • design and execute a research project which examines a problem or issue using appropriate methodologies and theories from the discipline area;

    • identify and critically evaluate new developments of research and scholarship in the discipline area;

    • communicate effectively ideas and proposed solutions to peers and general audiences in diverse contexts;

    Application of Skills & Knowledge

    Demonstrated ability to:

    • articulate new questions or issues and apply the knowledge and skills developed within the discipline area of to develop appropriate solutions;
    • work independently, responsibly and with the level of professionalism expected in the discipline area;
    • design and implement a research project in the discipline area to advance personal and professional development.

    Admission Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Pre-admission Interview

    The Program Director may conduct a pre-admission interview (either face-to-face or phone or online) with any applicants to assess academic suitability and preparedness of the applicant for this level study.

    Work and Life Experience – Applicants over 21 who do not meet academic requirements

    If you are over 21: apply for admission and complete the provisional entry qualifying period to become a full candidate of the course.

    This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.

    Higher Education Study

    Completion of an AQF Level 5 Higher Education Diploma (or higher) by an authorised institution.

    Vocational Education and Training (VET)

    Completion of a Certificate III or higher by an authorised institution or registered training organisation.

    Recent Secondary Education (with the past 2 years)

    Completion of NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) (or the completion of an International Baccalaureate or the interstate or overseas equivalent qualification).

    How to Apply

    • Get Started

      Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

    • Apply

      It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 228 355.

    • Offer

      We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.

    Key Dates
    Semester 1
    Term 1
    February / March
    Term 2
    April
    Semester 2
    Term 3
    July / August
    Term 4
    November