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You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.

A few of the questions we hear most often. If you don’t see yours here, please reach out — we’d love to talk.

“Art is a reflection of God’s creativity, an evidence that we are made in the image of God.”
Francis Schaeffer

Curriculum & Programs

Can I take courses in more than one discipline?

Yes. You can take certain courses from other disciplines, depending on class availability and scheduling. These classes are available at a reduced à la carte rate.

How are the arts integrated into the overall curriculum?

The curriculum is organized with both weekly lecture and practicum classes each semester. These are considered “lab” or “applied lessons,” and the details are determined by the individual professors.

The curriculum covers a broad array of issues relating to the specific art — history, theology, and cultural views of art — as well as practical application in the lab hours and additional activities.

Are there opportunities to gain teaching experience or mentorship within my discipline?

Each arts discipline will delve into teaching skills and strategies in the second year. The specialized Leader Certificate will include additional service hours and training to further prepare students for teaching positions.

There will also be opportunity to be involved in the Conservatory side of RSA, which offers private lessons and classes to elementary, middle, and high school aged students.

Are there opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration between disciplines?

Yes — there will often be opportunities for joint ventures across the three disciplines at RSA, such as concerts, exhibits, and community events.

Are there opportunities for ensembles, solo recitals, or adjudications?

Yes. There are end-of-semester performance opportunities and evaluations, as well as involvement in community choral and instrumental events. Musical and visual arts adjudications will also be included throughout the semester.

Can students receive feedback and guidance from faculty in their chosen field?

Yes. Each faculty member at RSA is eager to equip students with all the resources and information to further their learning experience and prepare for a future in the arts. Faculty are available for evaluations, individual study recommendations, and career planning advice.

Are there opportunities to collaborate with local artists, chefs, or performers?

Yes. In addition to community service opportunities available within the church, students may be involved in the arts in the larger West Monroe / Monroe area — events like the Downtown Art Crawl, art and food festivals, and local theater productions.

Student Life & Housing

Does RSA provide housing for students?

No — there are no student dorms at RSA. However, RSA will provide a list of Church of the Redeemer families who are interested in housing students in their home. Those arrangements (including cost) are settled directly between the church member and the student.

Can students live in their own apartment?

Yes. Students may choose to live on their own, or coordinate with another student as a roommate.

Can I work while attending school?

Yes — students are encouraged to find part-time work according to their schedules. The class schedule is organized to allow students to work part-time if they choose.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio?

We estimate the ratio at 6 to 1 for our inaugural year.

Tuition & Cost

What is the cost of tuition?

The semester fee for the certificate programs is $4,500. Additional à la carte classes range from $900 – $1,200.

Are there scholarships available?

Not at this time. However, the class schedule is organized to allow students to work part-time if they choose, in order to provide for their needs.

Faith & Church Life

Can I attend a different church other than Church of the Redeemer while I am a student?

An essential component of the RSA vision is incorporating students into the body of believers at Church of the Redeemer. Learning opportunities continue outside of the classroom, in the relationships and activities of the church. Therefore, students are heartily welcomed and are expected to embrace the church life of CotR while attending RSA.

Do I need to be Presbyterian in order to attend RSA?

No — there is no requirement to be a member of a Presbyterian church in order to be a student at RSA. However, students will need to be able to affirm and sign our Statement of Faith found on our website, which clearly lays out the beliefs and expectations of the school.

“The arts have been relegated to something purely subjective, a matter of individual taste, a decorative version of ‘what’s true for me,’ a private aesthetic thrill to compensate for the grimness of what is actually out there… Such is the view today, and it is the exact opposite of how the arts and artists were once seen and could be seen again.”
Malcolm GuiteLifting the Veil: Imagination and the Kingdom of God
Still Have Questions?

Reach out — we’d love to talk.

If your question isn’t answered here, give us a call or send a note. We answer every inquiry personally.

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