Master of Arts in Liturgy (MAL)
The Master of Arts in Liturgy (MAL) program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake (USML) allows you to delve deeper into the theoretical and practical aspects of sacred liturgy, including changes in liturgical practices, understanding Catholic law and theology, and more. Students will gain extensive knowledge of Church reforms and changes throughout time. The program also focuses on the dedicated liturgy of the church, the beauty and tradition of the church, and understanding the grace of rituals, art, and architecture.
This specialized degree program is carefully crafted for individuals passionate about serving in a parish or diocesan church. It is a terminal professional degree that provides a distinctive path for your career; in other words, this path does not allow you to pursue a PhD. If you aspire to pursue a PhD, we also offer the Master of Arts in Liturgical Studies (MALS) program.
Who Benefits from the MAL Program?
- Priests and those who plan to work at the parish, diocesan, or secondary education levels
- Director of Worship
- People who specialize in religious art, architecture, music, and book publishing
Course Work
Master of Arts in Liturgy (MAL) Degree Requirements (35 Credit Hours)
| Course ID | Course Description | Credit Hours |
| LI625 | Sacraments of Initiation | 3 |
| LI626 | Liturgical Documentation and Law | 2 |
| LI635 | Word of God and Liturgy | 2 |
| LI636 | Liturgical Year and Liturgy of the Hours | 2 |
| LI640 | Sacraments of Vocation | 3 |
| LI641 | Art, Architecture and Aesthetics | 3 |
| LI642 | Sacramentals, Blessings, Devotions | 2 |
| LI647 | Sources, Principles and Methods | 3 |
| LI650 | Sacraments of Healing | 3 |
| LI652 | Liturgical Traditions: East and West | 2 |
| LI654 | Liturgical Movement | 3 |
| LI655 | Ritual, Symbol and Music | 3 |
| LI656 | Eucharist: Origins, Structure, Controversy | 3 |
| LI658 | Liturgical Preparation and Training | 1 |
| LI681 | MAL Comprehensive Examination | 0 |
| Total | 35 | |
The comprehensive examination, comprised of written and oral sections, is normally taken during the student’s final semester.
Click here to access a printable pdf of the Master of Arts in Liturgy (MAL) Degree Requirements.
Prerequisites
- A bachelor’s degree.
- At least 18 hours of theology, philosophy, or religious studies coursework (Provisional acceptance may be granted upon request for applicants without these prerequisites)