The closure of graduate programs in organ performance across America has made the MSM increasingly the de facto degree for advanced studies in church music; MSM graduates who wish to continue their studies have the option of academic (Ph.D. or Th.D.)
Most MSM programs are limited to choral conducting and organ performance, as these two applied fields are the primary occupations of church music directors.
Master of Sacred Music programs in the United States include: Boston University's program is the oldest (BU is also host to the oldest higher education program in music in the United States) and Notre Dame's[8] is the youngest (admitting its first students for Fall 2005).
[9] On November 14, 2012, Luther Seminary ended its MSM program; then-current students were permitted to finish out their studies, but no new applicants were accepted following the decision, which was made by President Richard Bliese against the recommendations of the seminary's Educational Leadership Committee (ELC).
These are distinguished from MSM programs by their primary focus on the applied music components.