Applying to IWS

Admission to the Master of Worship Studies and Doctor of Worship Studies programs is done on a rolling basis. Check the calendar for dates of upcoming sessions. New students may begin during the January or June semester.

Entrance Requirements

Students requesting admittance must have:

• a bachelor’s degree
• a master’s degree* (a master’s degree in any field is acceptable)
• a ministry in the local church or a Christian organization (need not be a paid position)

* for entrance into the D.W.S. program only

How to Apply

An application to either degree program contains the following:

Application Form

You may complete the application form online, or you may print a copy of the application from the back of the Academic Catalog and submit the form by mail.

Personal Statement

Your personal statement of 300 words or less should explain how you believe you would profit from being a part of this academic program. This document may be emailed to the Admissions Department or submitted by mail.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must request one letter of recommendation from their senior pastor. If you are the senior pastor of a church, you may request a letter from a fellow pastor who has worked closely with you in ministry settings. The other letter of recommendation should come from a colleague, a ministry partner, or an IWS graduate.

These letters should include how long the writer has known you, how they view your role in Christian ministry, and how they feel you will approach graduate-level studies.

The Letters of Recommendation should be sent directly to the Admissions office by their authors, not through the applicant.

Official Transcripts

Official, sealed transcripts from all previously-completed degrees (associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate, as applicable) should be sent directly to the IWS office.  The Director of Admissions may also request transcripts of academic work that did not lead to a completed degree.

Application Fee

Application to an IWS degree program will not be considered complete without the submission of the Application Fee of $50.  The fee may be paid over the phone or online by credit card, or by check or money order.  The Application Fee is nonrefundable.

Non-Discrimination Policy

The Institute for Worship Studies admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.