Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Education Policy Specialization in Human Development learning

Degree abbreviation B.A. in Faith-Based Education Policy Total program length 120 semester credit hours Normal completion time Four academic years General education 36 credit hours Faith-Based Education Policy core 63 credit hours Professional application courses 15 credit hours Capstone requirement 6 credit hours The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Education Policy, with a specialization in Human Development and Learning, equips students to apply a rigorous Christian worldview to the complexities of educational policy and human growth. The curriculum integrates biblical foundations, pedagogical methods, and scholarly research to prepare graduates for service in diverse educational settings. Students engage in deep theological reflection and ethical reasoning to address systemic educational challenges, cultivating a posture of servant leadership. Through core coursework in theology, developmental psychology, and policy analysis, students are empowered to design curricula and manage environments that foster holistic human development, reflecting the stewardship of intellectual and spiritual gifts. The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Education Policy program combines a rigorous foundation in general education with a comprehensive study of educational theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral strategies, program development, and community-based support. This interdisciplinary approach equips students to navigate the complexities of education policy through a faith-based lens, fostering critical analysis and application within diverse environments. Florida's current standard establishes a minimum of 120 semester credits for a bachelor's degree and at least 30 general-education credits for a Bachelor of Arts. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum. Program Details Total Credits: 120 Duration: 4 years Degree Level: Bachelor

Academic unit

Unassigned Academic Unit

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Understand and articulate core Christian theological concepts.
• Design and implement effective educational programs for various age groups in a church or community context.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills for teaching and leading in Christian environments.
• Evaluate and apply pedagogical theories and practices relevant to Christian education.
• Engage in reflective practice regarding the integration of faith and learning.
• Develop leadership skills necessary for managing educational ministries and church programs.
• Work collaboratively in teams to develop community outreach and educational initiatives.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CED 101
• An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education
• 3
• None
• GEN 101
• English Composition I
• 3
• None
• GEN 102
• English Composition II
• 3
• English Composition I
• GEN 103
• College Algebra
• 3
• None
• GEN 104
• Introduction to Theology and Education
• 3
• None
• CED 101 — An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education: Philosophical foundations of educationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 101 — English Composition I: This course introduces students to the fundamentals of academic writing, focusing on developing clear, organized, and effective prose. Students will learn to craft well-structured essays, engage in critical reading, and develop their voice as writersThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 102 — English Composition II: Building on English Composition I, this course focuses on advanced writing skills, including research, argumentation, and persuasive writing. Students will learn to synthesize sources, develop complex arguments, and refine their editing and revision processesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 103 — College Algebra: This course covers fundamental algebraic concepts including functions, equations, inequalities, polynomial and rational expressions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations. Students will develop problem-solving skills essential for advanced mathematics and real-world applicationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 104 — Introduction to Theology and Education : An introductory survey of Christian theology, exploring core doctrines, biblical foundations, and the historical development of theological thought. Students will examine key theological concepts and their application to ministry and educationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• GEN 105
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• GEN 106
• GEN 106 Public Speaking and Communication (CEHD)
• 3
• None
• GEN 106 (BE)
• GEN 106 Public Speaking and Communication (BE)
• 3
• None
• GEN 107
• Research Methods in Education
• 3
• None
• GEN 108
• Ethics and Moral Reasoning
• 3
• None
• GEN 105 — Introduction to Psychology: This course provides an overview of the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Topics include learning, memory, development, personality, social psychology, and psychological disorders. Students will explore how psychological principles apply to education and ministry settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 106 — GEN 106 Public Speaking and Communication (CEHD): Students will develop effective oral communication skills through practice in public speaking, presentation techniques, and interpersonal communication. Emphasis is placed on clarity, confidence, audience engagement, and using communication skills in educational and ministry contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 106 (BE) — GEN 106 Public Speaking and Communication (BE) : Development of effective oral communication skills including presentation techniques, audience analysis, and persuasive speakingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 107 — Research Methods in Education: This course introduces students to research methodologies used in educational settings. Students will learn to design studies, collect and analyze data, and evaluate research literature. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practices in education and ministryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 108 — Ethics and Moral Reasoning: An exploration of ethical theories, moral decision-making, and the application of ethical principles in personal and professional contexts. Students will examine contemporary moral issues through the lens of Christian ethics and philosophical traditionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• GEN 108
• Ethics and Moral Reasoning (BE)
• 3
• None
• GEN 109
• Leadership and Team Development
• 3
• None
• GEN 109
• Leadership and Team Development (BE)
• 3
• None
• GEN 110
• Multicultural Education and Faith-Based Teaching
• 3
• None
• GEN 110
• Multicultural Education and Faith-Based Teaching (BE)
• 3
• None
• GEN 108 — Ethics and Moral Reasoning (BE): Examination of ethical theories and moral decision-making frameworks in personal and professional contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 109 — Leadership and Team Development: This course examines leadership theories, team dynamics, and organizational behavior. Students will develop practical leadership skills applicable to educational institutions, ministry settings, and community organizations. Topics include servant leadership, conflict resolution, and team buildingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 109 — Leadership and Team Development (BE): Study of leadership principles, team dynamics, and collaborative skills essential for educational environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 110 — Multicultural Education and Faith-Based Teaching: This course explores culturally responsive teaching practices and the integration of faith-based principles in diverse educational settings. Students will learn to create inclusive learning environments that honor cultural diversity while maintaining Christian values and ministry objectivesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GEN 110 — Multicultural Education and Faith-Based Teaching (BE): Exploration of diverse cultural perspectives in education and integration of faith-based principles in teaching practicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• SOC 205
• Sociology of Family and Community
• 3
• GEN 105
• POL 210
• Introduction to Public Policy Analysis
• 3
• GEN 107
• CED 211
• Theology of Christian Education
• 3
• None
• CED 216
• Foundations of Education
• 3
• None
• CED 219
• Educational Psychology
• 3
• None
• SOC 205 — Sociology of Family and Community: This course examines the role of familial structures within modern social systems and their intersection with religious institutions. Students will analyze demographic trends affecting local community engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• POL 210 — Introduction to Public Policy Analysis: Students will learn the foundational frameworks for evaluating government policies and their impact on private and religious sectors. The course emphasizes practical tools for policy research and advocacy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CED 211 — Theology of Christian Education: Theological foundations of Christian educationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• CED 216 — Foundations of Education: Historical and philosophical foundations of educationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• CED 219 — Educational Psychology: Psychological principles applied to educationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• HDEV 220
• Lifespan Human Development
• 3
• GEN 105
• CED 300
• Assessment and Evaluation in Education
• 3
• None
• CED 301
• Christian Leadership in Educational Institutions
• 3
• None
• CED 302
• Ethics and Legal Issues in Faith-Based Education
• 3
• None
• EDP 310
• Learning Theory and Instructional Design
• 3
• CED 219
• HDEV 220 — Lifespan Human Development: This course explores physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development across the human lifespan from a faith-based perspective. It highlights developmental milestones relevant to educational interventions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CED 300 — Assessment and Evaluation in Education: Methods for assessing and evaluating student learningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• CED 301 — Christian Leadership in Educational Institutions: Leadership in faith-based educational settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• CED 302 — Ethics and Legal Issues in Faith-Based Education: Ethical and legal considerations in faith-based educationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDP 310 — Learning Theory and Instructional Design: Participants will study modern learning theories and their application in classroom and community educational settings. The focus is on designing effective curricula that honor diverse learning styles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• NGO 315
• Nonprofit Resource Development
• 3
• CED 301
• POL 320
• Education Law and Policy Reform
• 3
• CED 302
• HDEV 330
• Developmental Challenges in Urban Environments
• 3
• HDEV 220
• COM 340
• Strategic Communication for Nonprofits
• 3
• GEN 106
• HIS 350
• History of Faith-Based Philanthropy
• 3
• GEN 104
• NGO 315 — Nonprofit Resource Development: This course covers the essentials of fundraising, donor stewardship, and grant writing for faith-based entities. Students will develop strategies for sustainable financial health and growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• POL 320 — Education Law and Policy Reform: An investigation into current legislative trends affecting schools and community policy initiatives. Students will analyze how legal frameworks influence the operation of faith-based educational programs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HDEV 330 — Developmental Challenges in Urban Environments: This course focuses on the unique developmental needs of individuals living in underserved or high-stress urban settings. Strategies for social support and educational advocacy will be explored. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 340 — Strategic Communication for Nonprofits: This course provides training in public relations, brand management, and multi-channel communication strategies for charitable organizations. It emphasizes ethical messaging in the public square. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS 350 — History of Faith-Based Philanthropy: An overview of the historical development of religious charities and their impact on social welfare in society. Students will learn from past initiatives to shape future outreach strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DME 402
• Leadership in Cross-Cultural Ministry Education
• 3
• None
• DME 405
• Integrating Theology and Education in Diverse Settings
• 3
• None
• EDP 410
• Behavioral Interventions in Youth Programs
• 3
• EDP 310
• NGO 420
• Nonprofit Organizational Governance
• 3
• NGO 315
• POL 430
• Advocacy and Grassroots Mobilization
• 3
• POL 320
• DME 402 — Leadership in Cross-Cultural Ministry Education: Leading ministry education across culturesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• DME 405 — Integrating Theology and Education in Diverse Settings: Blending theological and educational principles in diverse contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDP 410 — Behavioral Interventions in Youth Programs: This course explores evidence-based behavioral strategies used to support youth in community-based educational programming. Emphasis is placed on holistic, compassionate engagement techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• NGO 420 — Nonprofit Organizational Governance: Students examine the internal governance structures, board relationships, and operational compliance necessary for successful nonprofits. The focus includes strategic planning and risk management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• POL 430 — Advocacy and Grassroots Mobilization: This course introduces techniques for grassroots organizing and political advocacy for policy change. It covers lobbying ethics and community-based coalition building. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• HDEV 440
• Family Systems and Social Support
• 3
• SOC 205
• INT 450
• Policy Practicum
• 3
• Completed 90 credit hours
• THE 460
• Christian Social Ethics and Public Policy
• 3
• GEN 108
• RES 470
• Advanced Data Analysis in Human Services
• 3
• GEN 107
• CAP 499
• Senior Capstone Project
• 3
• Completed 110 credit hours
• HDEV 440 — Family Systems and Social Support: An analysis of systemic support mechanisms available to families navigating socioeconomic and emotional challenges. Students will practice identifying and leveraging community resources effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• INT 450 — Policy Practicum: Students will engage in a supervised field placement within a faith-based educational or community organization. They will apply academic theories to real-world policy implementation tasks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE 460 — Christian Social Ethics and Public Policy: This course explores theological foundations for social responsibility and moral engagement in policy development. Students critique contemporary issues through the lens of faith. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 470 — Advanced Data Analysis in Human Services: This course builds upon prior research methods by focusing on statistical analysis of program outcomes and social data. Students learn to present research for funding proposals and organizational improvement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP 499 — Senior Capstone Project: The senior capstone requires students to complete a comprehensive project addressing a real-world policy problem within a faith-based context. This work synthesizes their academic learning into a final scholarly portfolio. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Prospective students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a personal statement demonstrating their commitment to Christian education and a recommendation from a faith leader or educator. Senior Capstone Project The capstone requirement mandates that students complete an integrative senior project that synthesizes their theoretical understanding of human development with their commitment to faith-based policy. Students will analyze contemporary educational policy through the lens of biblical stewardship, proposing solutions that honor the dignity of the human person. This project requires students to articulate how their servant leadership and ethical reasoning will inform their future contributions to educational reform. By presenting a research-based proposal, students demonstrate their ability to apply a Christian worldview to the pressing needs of the educational field while modeling academic excellence and spiritual maturity.

• To qualify for graduation, students must complete 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher, ensuring proficiency in both general education and specialized program requirements. Beyond academic mastery, graduation signifies a commitment to the ongoing process of spiritual formation, evidenced by consistent participation in community life and the application of Christian ethical reasoning throughout their coursework. Students must demonstrate the integration of their faith and professional discipline, proving their readiness to steward their educational influence for the benefit of their communities. Fulfillment of these requirements confirms that the student is prepared to enter their vocation with both technical competence and a firmly rooted Christian perspective.
• Career Opportunities
• Christian Educator
• Youth Pastor
• Children's Ministry Director
• Education Coordinator for a Nonprofit
• Curriculum Developer for Religious Organizations
• Adult Education Instructor in Church Settings
• Educational Consultant for Faith-Based Programs
• Important Notices
• The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
• HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
• HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
• Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
• The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
• Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
• Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
• This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
• Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
• Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
• Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
• Degree abbreviation | B.A. in Faith-Based Education Policy
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Faith-Based Education Policy core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CED 101 | An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education | 3 | None
• GEN 101 | English Composition I | 3 | None
• GEN 102 | English Composition II | 3 | English Composition I
• GEN 103 | College Algebra | 3 | None
• GEN 104 | Introduction to Theology and Education | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• GEN 105 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• GEN 106 | GEN 106 Public Speaking and Communication (CEHD) | 3 | None
• GEN 106 (BE) | GEN 106 Public Speaking and Communication (BE) | 3 | None
• GEN 107 | Research Methods in Education | 3 | None
• GEN 108 | Ethics and Moral Reasoning | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• GEN 108 | Ethics and Moral Reasoning (BE) | 3 | None
• GEN 109 | Leadership and Team Development | 3 | None
• GEN 109 | Leadership and Team Development (BE) | 3 | None
• GEN 110 | Multicultural Education and Faith-Based Teaching | 3 | None
• GEN 110 | Multicultural Education and Faith-Based Teaching (BE) | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC 205 | Sociology of Family and Community | 3 | GEN 105
• POL 210 | Introduction to Public Policy Analysis | 3 | GEN 107
• CED 211 | Theology of Christian Education | 3 | None
• CED 216 | Foundations of Education | 3 | None
• CED 219 | Educational Psychology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• HDEV 220 | Lifespan Human Development | 3 | GEN 105
• CED 300 | Assessment and Evaluation in Education | 3 | None
• CED 301 | Christian Leadership in Educational Institutions | 3 | None
• CED 302 | Ethics and Legal Issues in Faith-Based Education | 3 | None
• EDP 310 | Learning Theory and Instructional Design | 3 | CED 219
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• NGO 315 | Nonprofit Resource Development | 3 | CED 301
• POL 320 | Education Law and Policy Reform | 3 | CED 302
• HDEV 330 | Developmental Challenges in Urban Environments | 3 | HDEV 220
• COM 340 | Strategic Communication for Nonprofits | 3 | GEN 106
• HIS 350 | History of Faith-Based Philanthropy | 3 | GEN 104
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DME 402 | Leadership in Cross-Cultural Ministry Education | 3 | None
• DME 405 | Integrating Theology and Education in Diverse Settings | 3 | None
• EDP 410 | Behavioral Interventions in Youth Programs | 3 | EDP 310
• NGO 420 | Nonprofit Organizational Governance | 3 | NGO 315
• POL 430 | Advocacy and Grassroots Mobilization | 3 | POL 320
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• HDEV 440 | Family Systems and Social Support | 3 | SOC 205
• INT 450 | Policy Practicum | 3 | Completed 90 credit hours
• THE 460 | Christian Social Ethics and Public Policy | 3 | GEN 108
• RES 470 | Advanced Data Analysis in Human Services | 3 | GEN 107
• CAP 499 | Senior Capstone Project | 3 | Completed 110 credit hours