Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Professional Counseling

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Professional Counseling

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

Academic unit

HBIU College of Addiction Counseling

Total credits

60

Duration

2 years

• Analyze foundational theories in human development and social interaction.
• Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to professional counseling scenarios.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal communication strategies in diverse group settings.
• Evaluate the impact of socioeconomic and cultural factors on community wellbeing.
• Design a service-oriented project that integrates theoretical concepts with faith-informed professional practice.
• Integrate biblical stewardship and servant leadership principles into organizational operations.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG 101
• Academic Writing and Rhetoric
• 4
• None
• PSY 101
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• MIN 101
• Foundations of Servant Leadership
• 3
• None
• COM 105
• Interpersonal Communication
• 3
• None
• ENG 101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: This course focuses on the development of critical thinking and written communication skills through the examination of diverse texts and writing styles. Students will practice structuring academic arguments and performing research analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: This course provides an overview of psychological theories, covering topics such as human development, cognition, and behavioral foundations. Students explore the scientific method in the context of human behavior studies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN 101 — Foundations of Servant Leadership: This course investigates the theoretical and practical dimensions of servant leadership in a modern organizational context. Emphasis is placed on stewardship, empathy, and organizational integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 105 — Interpersonal Communication: This course develops skills in verbal and non-verbal communication, emphasizing active listening and empathetic dialogue. Students examine how effective communication sustains healthy professional relationships. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• SOC 102
• Introduction to Sociology
• 4
• None
• COU 201
• Theories of Counseling and Support
• 3
• PSY 101
• MAT 102
• Quantitative Reasoning
• 3
• None
• CHR 202
• Ethical Reasoning in Organizations
• 3
• None
• SOC 102 — Introduction to Sociology: This course examines the fundamental concepts of social structures, institutions, and cultural dynamics. Students analyze how societal forces influence group behavior and community cohesion. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU 201 — Theories of Counseling and Support: This course provides an introduction to the history and foundational theories of counseling services. Focus is placed on ethical standards, professionalism, and the helping relationship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT 102 — Quantitative Reasoning: This course covers fundamental mathematical concepts and data analysis necessary for interpreting organizational and research data. Students apply logic and statistical interpretation to real-world problems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR 202 — Ethical Reasoning in Organizations: This course explores various ethical frameworks and their application in organizational decision-making. Students evaluate case studies involving moral dilemmas and responsible resource management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• PSY 205
• Developmental Psychology
• 4
• PSY 101
• COU 210
• Group Dynamics and Facilitation
• 3
• COM 105
• BUS 205
• Nonprofit Administration
• 3
• None
• RES 201
• Research Methods for Social Services
• 3
• MAT 102
• PSY 205 — Developmental Psychology: This course traces the lifespan development of individuals from infancy through adulthood. Key topics include physical, cognitive, and social development across the human experience. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU 210 — Group Dynamics and Facilitation: This course explores the mechanics of group interaction and the role of the facilitator. Students learn how to navigate group processes to achieve constructive outcomes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 205 — Nonprofit Administration: This course examines the operational, financial, and regulatory aspects of managing nonprofit entities. Students gain an understanding of organizational mission sustainability and stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 201 — Research Methods for Social Services: This course introduces qualitative and quantitative research methods appropriate for assessing community needs. Students develop skills in gathering and analyzing information to support evidence-based service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 220
• Contemporary Issues in Social Support
• 3
• SOC 102
• HUM 205
• Cultural Competence in Community Service
• 3
• None
• PSY 205
• Personal Development and Professional Ethics
• 3
• None
• CAP 299
• Capstone: Professional Integration Project
• 4
• RES 201
• COU 220 — Contemporary Issues in Social Support: This course investigates modern challenges faced by community-based social service programs. Students analyze societal trends and formulate proactive approaches to provide support. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM 205 — Cultural Competence in Community Service: This course focuses on the development of cultural humility and the ability to serve diverse populations effectively. Students discuss strategies for inclusive service and community dialogue. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 205 — Personal Development and Professional Ethics: This course examines the foundations of individual psychological growth, self-regulation, and the development of professional character within social service environments. Students explore theories of personal identity and the application of ethical standards in client-centered roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP 299 — Capstone: Professional Integration Project: This culminating course requires students to produce a project that integrates academic theory, ethical practice, and community needs analysis. The final deliverable serves as a demonstration of readiness for professional service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Additionally, candidates must submit a statement of intent outlining their commitment to professional development, academic integrity, and service-oriented work within faith-based or community contexts. Prospective students are expected to demonstrate an alignment with the institution's values and mission through a personal interview process. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the final academic demonstration of the student’s mastery of the program’s core competencies. This project is a 4-credit intensive course designed to integrate the theories of behavioral science with the practical application of faith-informed ethical reasoning and servant leadership. Students are tasked with researching a specific community need and proposing an actionable, stewardship-focused strategy that addresses the issue while maintaining the standards of professional conduct and organizational ethics. The project requires a comprehensive written analysis and a formal presentation, serving as the final evaluative hurdle for the Associate degree. Through this project, students articulate how their academic preparation has shaped their capacity to serve with integrity, demonstrating a synthesis of theoretical knowledge and the spiritual maturity required for sustained community engagement. It emphasizes the student's ability to operate as an agent of positive change, reflecting a deep commitment to the welfare of others as a hallmark of professional character.

• Graduation requires the completion of 60 total credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students must successfully pass all core and required coursework, including the final Capstone Project. Beyond academic proficiency, graduates are expected to demonstrate spiritual formation and character development through active participation in institutional community engagement and service initiatives. This synthesis of academic attainment and spiritual growth ensures that candidates are prepared to transition into professional roles that require ethical integrity, service to others, and a commitment to the mission-driven work of nonprofit and faith-based organizations. Candidates must be in good standing, having met all institutional expectations for conduct and professional readiness prior to the awarding of the degree.
• Career Opportunities
• Nonprofit Program Assistant
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Social Services Support Specialist
• Church Ministry Support Staff
• Youth Program Assistant
• Volunteer Services Coordinator
• Case Management Assistant
• 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 | A.A. in Faith-Based Professional Counseling
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years
• General education | 18 credit hours
• Faith-Based Professional Counseling core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG 101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 4 | None
• PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• MIN 101 | Foundations of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
• COM 105 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC 102 | Introduction to Sociology | 4 | None
• COU 201 | Theories of Counseling and Support | 3 | PSY 101
• MAT 102 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
• CHR 202 | Ethical Reasoning in Organizations | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PSY 205 | Developmental Psychology | 4 | PSY 101
• COU 210 | Group Dynamics and Facilitation | 3 | COM 105
• BUS 205 | Nonprofit Administration | 3 | None
• RES 201 | Research Methods for Social Services | 3 | MAT 102
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 220 | Contemporary Issues in Social Support | 3 | SOC 102
• HUM 205 | Cultural Competence in Community Service | 3 | None
• PSY 205 | Personal Development and Professional Ethics | 3 | None
• CAP 299 | Capstone: Professional Integration Project | 4 | RES 201