Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, Specialization in Leadership

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Ministry, Specialization in Leadership

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

Academic unit

HBIU Seminary

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Analyze foundational theological frameworks and their influence on contemporary organizational ethics.
• Evaluate diverse leadership theories to determine their effectiveness in community-based settings.
• Develop strategic planning initiatives that align institutional resources with organizational mission objectives.
• Communicate complex ideas clearly through academic writing and professional public discourse.
• Apply principles of servant leadership to foster collaborative environments and resolve conflict.
• Integrate a coherent ethical worldview with professional practice in service to the community.
• Design an original research project that addresses a specific challenge within a faith-based organization.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG101
• Academic Writing and Rhetoric
• 3
• None
• HIS105
• World Civilizations I
• 3
• None
• MIN110
• Foundations of Ministry
• 3
• None
• MAT120
• Quantitative Reasoning
• 3
• None
• ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: This course develops skills in critical reading, analytical writing, and scholarly research. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication in professional contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS105 — World Civilizations I: An examination of global historical developments from antiquity to the early modern period. Students analyze socio-political structures and human progress. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN110 — Foundations of Ministry: This course introduces the biblical and historical foundations of ministry and service. Students explore the concept of vocation as a response to community need. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT120 — Quantitative Reasoning: Students explore mathematical applications including statistics and financial literacy relevant to organizational management. The curriculum emphasizes data-driven decision making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG102
• Research Methods and Composition
• 3
• ENG101
• COM150
• Interpersonal Communication
• 3
• None
• PSY110
• Foundations of Human Behavior
• 4
• None
• THE120
• Survey of Theological Thought
• 3
• None
• ENG102 — Research Methods and Composition: A continuation of academic writing focusing on advanced research techniques and the synthesis of secondary sources. Students produce a comprehensive literature review. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM150 — Interpersonal Communication: Focuses on the dynamics of human interaction, conflict resolution, and active listening in professional environments. Students learn strategies for effective team collaboration. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY110 — Foundations of Human Behavior: An introduction to psychological theories regarding individual development and motivation. Concepts are applied to leadership interactions within diverse groups. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE120 — Survey of Theological Thought: A survey of major theological concepts and their role in historical and contemporary societal shifts. Students examine the evolution of ethical frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• BUS201
• Principles of Management
• 3
• None
• SOC210
• Sociology of Community
• 3
• None
• MIN220
• Servant Leadership Theory
• 3
• MIN110
• BIO205
• Environmental Stewardship
• 3
• None
• BUS201 — Principles of Management: Covers essential management functions including planning, organizing, staffing, and controlling. Students analyze organizational structures and goal setting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC210 — Sociology of Community: Examines social structures, community dynamics, and the role of institutions in social stability. Students evaluate community needs assessment techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN220 — Servant Leadership Theory: Explores the philosophy of servant leadership through historical and contemporary lenses. Students practice self-reflection and group leadership techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BIO205 — Environmental Stewardship: An analysis of environmental challenges and ethical responsibilities regarding resource management. Students explore the intersection of sustainability and institutional policy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT250
• Organizational Behavior
• 3
• BUS201
• HUM200
• Ethics and Values
• 3
• None
• MIN250
• Spiritual Formation and Practice
• 4
• THE120
• RES280
• Introduction to Social Research
• 3
• MAT120
• MGT250 — Organizational Behavior: Investigates how individuals and groups interact within professional organizations. Topics include motivation, team dynamics, and organizational culture. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM200 — Ethics and Values: A study of ethical frameworks and their application to professional decision-making. Students evaluate moral dilemmas in contemporary leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN250 — Spiritual Formation and Practice: Focuses on the integration of personal spiritual development with public professional practice. Students develop personal mission statements and wellness plans. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES280 — Introduction to Social Research: Covers research design, methodology, and the collection of qualitative and quantitative data. Students prepare for future research projects. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT310
• Nonprofit Resource Development
• 3
• BUS201
• CHR320
• History of Social Service
• 3
• HIS105
• COM350
• Public Speaking and Advocacy
• 3
• COM150
• MIN340
• Cross-Cultural Engagement
• 3
• SOC210
• MGT310 — Nonprofit Resource Development: Examines fundraising, grant writing, and financial management for non-profit organizations. Focuses on ethical resource stewardship and sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR320 — History of Social Service: Analyzes the historical evolution of institutional care and social welfare initiatives. Students evaluate how historical precedents inform current community service models. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM350 — Public Speaking and Advocacy: Develops skills in persuasive communication, presentation delivery, and advocacy for institutional causes. Students engage in practical speech exercises. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN340 — Cross-Cultural Engagement: Addresses the complexities of operating within diverse cultural landscapes and global contexts. Focuses on cross-cultural competence and equitable outreach. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT360
• Strategic Leadership
• 4
• MGT250
• CRJ315
• Conflict Management and Mediation
• 3
• COM150
• EDU320
• Instructional Design in Organizations
• 3
• None
• RES390
• Data Analysis for Community Impact
• 3
• RES280
• MGT360 — Strategic Leadership: Advanced study of long-term planning, vision casting, and organizational mission alignment. Students develop strategic initiatives for hypothetical organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CRJ315 — Conflict Management and Mediation: Focuses on identifying, analyzing, and resolving organizational disputes. Students learn formal mediation strategies in professional settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU320 — Instructional Design in Organizations: Provides tools for training volunteers and staff within an organization. Covers curriculum development and teaching methodologies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES390 — Data Analysis for Community Impact: Applies statistical tools to assess the effectiveness of organizational programs. Students analyze real-world case studies to improve program outcomes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT410
• Personnel Management
• 3
• MGT250
• MIN420
• Pastoral Leadership and Administration
• 3
• MIN220
• SOC430
• Social Policy and Advocacy
• 3
• SOC210
• CAP400A
• Capstone Proposal Development
• 3
• RES390
• MGT410 — Personnel Management: Explores the complexities of hiring, training, and retaining talent within non-profit frameworks. Emphasizes equitable and ethical personnel policy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN420 — Pastoral Leadership and Administration: Examines the logistical and managerial side of running a ministry organization. Focuses on facility management and logistical coordination. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC430 — Social Policy and Advocacy: An investigation of government and community policies affecting social service organizations. Students learn how to navigate and advocate within policy frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP400A — Capstone Proposal Development: The initial phase of the senior project involving proposal formulation, literature review, and methodology design. Students present their project plans for faculty review. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT450
• Institutional Governance and Ethics
• 3
• HUM200
• MIN460
• Professionalism in Ministry
• 3
• MIN250
• CAP400B
• Senior Capstone Project
• 4
• CAP400A
• COM480
• Public Relations for Nonprofits
• 3
• COM350
• MGT450 — Institutional Governance and Ethics: Focuses on board management, legal compliance, and ethical oversight. Students analyze the role of trustees and accountability in non-profits. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN460 — Professionalism in Ministry: A final synthesis of vocational identity, professional behavior, and spiritual integrity. Students prepare for their transition into the workforce. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP400B — Senior Capstone Project: The final execution of the research project, including comprehensive analysis and formal presentation. Students integrate academic research with their personal leadership philosophy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM480 — Public Relations for Nonprofits: Examines communication strategies for mission promotion and stakeholder engagement. Students develop a professional campaign for their target organization. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must provide evidence of graduation from an accredited high school or the equivalent, such as a General Education Development (GED) certificate. Candidates are expected to demonstrate academic readiness through a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 or satisfactory performance on a college-level assessment. Additionally, applicants should submit a personal statement outlining their commitment to ethical service, community engagement, and their alignment with the academic goals of HBIU Seminary. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Ministry. This project requires students to synthesize the knowledge gained throughout their undergraduate career by identifying a specific organizational challenge and proposing a research-based solution. Students must demonstrate competency in project management, analytical thinking, and the application of ethical leadership principles. This 4-credit endeavor is assessed not only on the rigor of the research methodology but also on the clarity of the proposed practical applications within a professional setting. Integration of faith-based perspectives is central to the project, as students are tasked with articulating how their biblical stewardship and servant leadership philosophy informs their proposed outcomes. The deliverables include a formal research paper and a professional presentation that demonstrate how academic inquiry functions in tandem with spiritual formation. By bridging the gap between theory and praxis, the capstone ensures that graduates exhibit the intellectual maturity and character necessary to uphold the highest standards of integrity in their future vocational pursuits.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. All core requirements, elective coursework, and the Senior Capstone Project must be finalized to ensure a comprehensive academic record. In addition to academic performance, students are expected to engage in consistent community service and meet institutional standards for character development, reflecting the seminary's commitment to holistic formation.
• Students must also participate in mandatory community life activities, including weekly chapel attendance and participation in small group reflections, which facilitate the integration of faith and learning. By the conclusion of the program, graduates must demonstrate that their academic achievements are accompanied by a readiness for service, marked by ethical integrity, spiritual maturity, and a commitment to the mission of their prospective organizations. These requirements ensure that graduates emerge as well-rounded practitioners prepared for faith-informed leadership.
• Career Opportunities
• Non-profit Program Coordinator
• Community Outreach Director
• Church Administrative Manager
• Human Resources Liaison for Faith-Based Organizations
• Volunteer Services Coordinator
• Mission Development Specialist
• Youth Ministry Director
• 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 Ministry, Specialization in Leadership
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Theological and biblical studies core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
• HIS105 | World Civilizations I | 3 | None
• MIN110 | Foundations of Ministry | 3 | None
• MAT120 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG102 | Research Methods and Composition | 3 | ENG101
• COM150 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• PSY110 | Foundations of Human Behavior | 4 | None
• THE120 | Survey of Theological Thought | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BUS201 | Principles of Management | 3 | None
• SOC210 | Sociology of Community | 3 | None
• MIN220 | Servant Leadership Theory | 3 | MIN110
• BIO205 | Environmental Stewardship | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT250 | Organizational Behavior | 3 | BUS201
• HUM200 | Ethics and Values | 3 | None
• MIN250 | Spiritual Formation and Practice | 4 | THE120
• RES280 | Introduction to Social Research | 3 | MAT120
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT310 | Nonprofit Resource Development | 3 | BUS201
• CHR320 | History of Social Service | 3 | HIS105
• COM350 | Public Speaking and Advocacy | 3 | COM150
• MIN340 | Cross-Cultural Engagement | 3 | SOC210
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT360 | Strategic Leadership | 4 | MGT250
• CRJ315 | Conflict Management and Mediation | 3 | COM150
• EDU320 | Instructional Design in Organizations | 3 | None
• RES390 | Data Analysis for Community Impact | 3 | RES280
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT410 | Personnel Management | 3 | MGT250
• MIN420 | Pastoral Leadership and Administration | 3 | MIN220
• SOC430 | Social Policy and Advocacy | 3 | SOC210
• CAP400A | Capstone Proposal Development | 3 | RES390
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT450 | Institutional Governance and Ethics | 3 | HUM200
• MIN460 | Professionalism in Ministry | 3 | MIN250
• CAP400B | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | CAP400A
• COM480 | Public Relations for Nonprofits | 3 | COM350