SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – Jason Salazar, associate professor of music and program coordinator for Evangel University’s Worship Leadership program, recently received his Ph.D. in Leadership (Religion/Ministry) from the University of the Cumberlands.
Salazar’s dissertation was titled, “The Impact of Undergraduate Degrees on the Musical, Theological, and Leadership Skills of the Worship Pastor.” In his dissertation, he looked at ways in which a college degree can enhance a worship pastor’s role within the local church.
Part of his research included surveying current worship pastors both with and without degrees. He also studied the skillset required of a worship pastor and identified three essential areas in which a worship pastor must excel. They include musicianship, theological knowledge, and leadership.
The research behind the dissertation has played a vital role in providing factual data to help in the revision of Evangel’s undergraduate Worship Leadership degree, as well as an online Worship Leadership certificate program.
“Although daunting at times, this experience was a lesson in perseverance,” Salazar said. “The feedback I received from worship pastors active in ministry helped shape the revised Worship Leadership programs at Evangel, and I am grateful for their insights that will enhance what we offer church musicians.”
In addition to his teaching roles, Salazar also oversees worship for Evangel’s chapel services and other campus events. He also serves on the music staff at Central Assembly in Springfield, Missouri.
Salazar is an active composer, arranger, and songwriter, and has written music for the Assemblies of God fellowship, Dream City Church in Phoenix, Arizona, Regular Baptist Press, Answers in Genesis, and James River Church in Ozark, Missouri. He has also written articles that have appeared in several national music magazines.
He received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Evangel University, a Master of Music in Composition from Missouri State University.
Salazar lives in Springfield, Missouri with his wife Jennie, and five children, Jackson, Cameron, Josie, Diego, and Charlie.
###
Evangel University, with the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive Christian university committed to excellence in educating and equipping students to serve the Church and society globally. Evangel and AGTS serve more than 2,200 students from all 50 states and numerous foreign countries, offering 70 undergraduate majors and 19 master and doctoral degrees.