Faith-Based Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Counseling & Psychology

Academic unitHBIU College of Behavioral Social ScienceTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Counseling & Psychology

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Counseling & Psychology core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Counseling & Psychology comprises 120 credit hours, deeply integrating comprehensive psychological theory with a robust Christian worldview. This program fosters academic excellence alongside intentional spiritual formation, ensuring that students rigorously evaluate clinical methodologies through the lens of biblical stewardship. By synthesizing counseling techniques with ethical reasoning rooted in the immutable truths of Scripture, students are prepared to address the complex emotional and spiritual needs of individuals with wisdom and grace. The curriculum emphasizes the development of servant leadership, equipping graduates to serve diverse communities with professional competence, Christ-centered compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the inherent dignity of every person as uniquely created in the image of God.

The Faith-Based Bachelor of Science in Counseling & Psychology combines a robust liberal arts foundation with comprehensive study in counseling theory, behavioral science, human development, professional ethics, research methodology, crisis awareness, referral strategies, program development, and community-based support. This integrated curriculum prepares students to analyze human behavior through both psychological and faith-based frameworks.

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 Science. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation: B.S. in Counseling & Psychology
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 College of Behavioral Social Science
Total credits: 120
Duration: 4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

Understand and apply core psychological theories within a Christian framework.
Demonstrate effective counseling techniques in various clinical settings.
Evaluate ethical issues in counseling with awareness of Christian values.
Conduct assessments and develop treatment plans addressing mental health concerns.
Communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Cultivate a holistic view of wellness that integrates psychological and spiritual health.
Participate in community outreach initiatives focused on mental health education.
Course Outline
Semester 1 — Year 1
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
BIB 101
Biblical Foundations for Human Behavior
3
None
PSY 102
Introduction to Psychology
3
None
SOC 105
Sociology of the Family
3
None
PSY 201
Developmental Psychology
3
PSY 102
PSY 205
Personality Theory
3
PSY 102
BIB 101 — Biblical Foundations for Human Behavior: This course examines the intersection of biblical principles and psychological theories of human development. Students explore how scriptural wisdom informs our understanding of personality and relationships. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 102 — Introduction to Psychology: This course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of psychology, including biological, cognitive, and social perspectives. Students are introduced to the scientific methods used in psychological research. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC 105 — Sociology of the Family: This course explores the sociological dimensions of family life across different cultures and traditions. It addresses challenges to family stability and examines historical shifts in domestic structure. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 201 — Developmental Psychology: This course covers the physical, cognitive, and social changes throughout the human lifespan. Students examine developmental milestones from infancy through late adulthood. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 205 — Personality Theory: This course analyzes major theories of personality, including psychoanalytic, humanistic, and trait perspectives. It encourages critical evaluation of how these theories reflect human nature. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 2 — Year 1
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
THL 210
Ethics in Pastoral Care
3
BIB 101
PSY 220
Social Psychology
3
PSY 102
PSY 250
Research Methods in Psychology
3
PSY 102
COUC 301
Techniques of Interviewing
3
PSY 102
COUC 304
Counseling Across Cultures
3
None
THL 210 — Ethics in Pastoral Care: This course explores ethical decision-making within the context of spiritual guidance and ministerial support. It emphasizes the importance of integrity and boundaries in helping relationships. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 220 — Social Psychology: This course examines how individuals are influenced by the presence and actions of others in a social environment. Topics include conformity, prejudice, aggression, and group dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 250 — Research Methods in Psychology: This course introduces the research methods and statistical tools necessary for conducting empirical studies. Students will design a basic research proposal on a social science topic. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COUC 301 — Techniques of Interviewing: This course focuses on essential skills for effective communication and active listening in clinical settings. Students practice building rapport and eliciting important information from clients. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COUC 304 — Counseling Across Cultures : This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 3 — Year 2
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
GEN 308
Critical Thinking for Helping Professions
3
None
Gen 310
Cross-Cultural Communication in Counseling
3
None
PSY 310
Cognitive Psychology
3
PSY 102
PSY 315
Abnormal Psychology
3
PSY 201
THL 320
Spiritual Formations and Healing
3
THL 210
GEN 308 — Critical Thinking for Helping Professions: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Gen 310 — Cross-Cultural Communication in Counseling : This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 310 — Cognitive Psychology: This course explores the mental processes of perception, memory, language, and problem-solving. Students investigate how humans process information and make decisions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 315 — Abnormal Psychology: This course investigates the classification, causes, and treatments of various psychological disorders. It relies on current diagnostic frameworks to identify symptoms and intervention strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
THL 320 — Spiritual Formations and Healing: This course investigates the role of spiritual practices in promoting emotional and psychological well-being. It explores historical and modern models of soul care and holistic healing. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 4 — Year 2
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
PSY 325
Biopsychology
3
PSY 102
COUC 330
Crisis Intervention
3
COUC 301
PSY 340
Learning and Motivation
3
PSY 102
SOC 350
Community Outreach and Advocacy
3
SOC 105
COUC 360
Addiction and Recovery
3
PSY 315
PSY 325 — Biopsychology: This course covers the biological basis of behavior, including the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system. Students examine how brain chemistry influences mood and psychological health. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COUC 330 — Crisis Intervention: This course provides training for responding to immediate psychological crises and trauma. Students learn de-escalation techniques and support protocols for those in acute distress. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 340 — Learning and Motivation: This course explores the psychological mechanisms behind human learning, reinforcement, and internal motivation. It applies these concepts to educational and organizational behavior. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC 350 — Community Outreach and Advocacy: This course teaches the strategies for mobilizing community resources to address social issues. It focuses on the role of advocacy in serving marginalized populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COUC 360 — Addiction and Recovery: This course provides an overview of substance abuse and behavioral addictions. It emphasizes a multi-faceted approach to recovery and reintegration into society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 5 — Year 3
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
PSY 370
Psychological Testing
3
PSY 250
CMHC 401
Foundations of Mental Health Counseling
3
None
CMHC 410
Group Counseling Dynamics
3
COUC 301
PSY 415
Child and Adolescent Psychology
3
PSY 201
THL 420
Christian Apologetics in Care
3
THL 320
PSY 370 — Psychological Testing: This course surveys the principles of test construction, validity, and reliability. Students learn how to evaluate various psychological assessment tools for diverse settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CMHC 401 — Foundations of Mental Health Counseling : This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CMHC 410 — Group Counseling Dynamics: This course examines the theories and practices of leading therapeutic groups. Students develop skills in group facilitation and conflict management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 415 — Child and Adolescent Psychology: This course focuses on the emotional and behavioral development of children and teenagers. It addresses common developmental challenges and effective support strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
THL 420 — Christian Apologetics in Care: This course integrates theological reasoning with secular psychological arguments in counseling contexts. It addresses common philosophical objections to faith-based mental health support. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 6 — Year 3
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
PSY 425
Health Psychology
3
PSY 325
COUC 430
Family Therapy Models
3
SOC 105
PSY 440
Motivation and Leadership
3
PSY 220
CMHC 450
Clinical Documentation
3
COUC 301
PSY 460
Human Sexuality and Relationships
3
PSY 201
PSY 425 — Health Psychology: This course explores the relationship between psychological factors, stress, and physical health. It promotes the study of wellness, disease prevention, and coping mechanisms. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COUC 430 — Family Therapy Models: This course introduces various systemic approaches to counseling family units. It emphasizes the importance of communication patterns and healthy boundaries within families. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 440 — Motivation and Leadership: This course examines the psychology of leadership and the strategies to motivate individuals toward shared goals. It integrates organizational psychology with ethical leadership principles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CMHC 450 — Clinical Documentation: This course focuses on the legal and professional requirements for clinical note-taking and record-keeping. It ensures compliance with best practices in the field of mental health. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 460 — Human Sexuality and Relationships: This course investigates the psychological and social aspects of human sexuality and intimacy. It examines healthy relationship development through the lens of psychology. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 7 — Year 4
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
PSY 465
Positive Psychology
3
PSY 102
COUC 470
Interpersonal Conflict Resolution
3
COUC 301
PSY 475
Sensation and Perception
3
PSY 325
SOC 480
Organizational Management in Nonprofits
3
SOC 350
PSY 485
Advanced Behavioral Analysis
3
PSY 340
PSY 465 — Positive Psychology: This course focuses on the scientific study of human flourishing and well-being. It explores gratitude, resilience, and optimism as key components of mental health. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COUC 470 — Interpersonal Conflict Resolution: This course teaches evidence-based strategies for resolving disputes and repairing fractured relationships. It is highly applicable to ministry and community leadership roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 475 — Sensation and Perception: This course examines the biological mechanisms of the senses and how they interpret environmental input. It explains how human experiences are constructed through these physical processes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC 480 — Organizational Management in Nonprofits: This course focuses on the administrative and operational needs of nonprofit organizations. Students learn about resource allocation and sustainable organizational growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 485 — Advanced Behavioral Analysis: This course explores complex behavioral modification techniques and their applications. It examines the use of data to inform behavioral interventions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 8 — Year 4
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
PSY 490
Professional Development
3
Senior Standing
PSY 492
Internship I
3
Senior Standing
PSY 494
Internship II
3
PSY 492
PSY 495
Senior Seminar
3
Senior Standing
PSY 499
Senior Capstone Thesis
3
Senior Standing
PSY 490 — Professional Development: This course covers career planning, professional ethics, and the transition to the workforce. It emphasizes maintaining high standards of personal and professional conduct. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 492 — Internship I: Students complete a supervised internship at a designated partner organization. This experience provides practical application of classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 494 — Internship II: Students continue their supervised internship experience to gain deeper competence. They reflect on their professional identity and growth as practitioners. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 495 — Senior Seminar: This seminar facilitates in-depth discussions on contemporary issues in psychology. Students synthesize their learnings from previous coursework in preparation for graduation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY 499 — Senior Capstone Thesis: This course serves as the final integration of the program, requiring students to complete a comprehensive research paper or project. Students demonstrate their mastery of program concepts through original work. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is recommended, along with submission of a personal statement and letters of recommendation. Senior Capstone Project The senior capstone project serves as the final, summative integration of the student's academic study and spiritual formation. Students are required to produce a scholarly thesis or an applied project that demonstrates the skillful integration of psychological principles within the framework of a biblically informed Christian worldview. This project requires a sophisticated analysis of clinical case studies, where students must exhibit rigorous ethical reasoning and a commitment to biblical stewardship in their problem-solving approaches. Through this final scholarly endeavor, students provide evidence of their readiness to enter the field, manifesting the values of servant leadership and a commitment to providing holistic, God-honoring care.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

The complete HBIU curriculum is protected.

Program titles, descriptions, outcomes, admissions information, and career opportunities remain available publicly. The official semester-by-semester course sequence, credits, prerequisites, and internal curriculum requirements are available to verified applicants, enrolled students, and authorized university personnel.

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Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

To qualify for the Bachelor of Science in Counseling & Psychology, students must complete a total of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Beyond fulfilling all core curricular mandates, students must demonstrate ongoing growth in spiritual formation and an adherence to the institutional code of conduct that reflects a steadfast commitment to Christian principles. Degree conferral is contingent upon the successful completion of all psychological and theological coursework, the passing of the senior capstone project, and a faculty assessment confirming the student's proficiency in applying ethical reasoning, biblical discernment, and a servant-hearted approach to the discipline of counseling.
Career Opportunities
Christian Counselor
School Counselor
Mental Health Technician
Chaplaincy in Mental Health Facilities
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Substance Abuse Counselor
Family Therapist
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.S. in Counseling & Psychology
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years
General education | 36 credit hours
Counseling & Psychology core | 63 credit hours
Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
BIB 101 | Biblical Foundations for Human Behavior | 3 | None
PSY 102 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
SOC 105 | Sociology of the Family | 3 | None
PSY 201 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | PSY 102
PSY 205 | Personality Theory | 3 | PSY 102
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
THL 210 | Ethics in Pastoral Care | 3 | BIB 101
PSY 220 | Social Psychology | 3 | PSY 102
PSY 250 | Research Methods in Psychology | 3 | PSY 102
COUC 301 | Techniques of Interviewing | 3 | PSY 102
COUC 304 | Counseling Across Cultures | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
GEN 308 | Critical Thinking for Helping Professions | 3 | None
Gen 310 | Cross-Cultural Communication in Counseling | 3 | None
PSY 310 | Cognitive Psychology | 3 | PSY 102
PSY 315 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 | PSY 201
THL 320 | Spiritual Formations and Healing | 3 | THL 210
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
PSY 325 | Biopsychology | 3 | PSY 102
COUC 330 | Crisis Intervention | 3 | COUC 301
PSY 340 | Learning and Motivation | 3 | PSY 102
SOC 350 | Community Outreach and Advocacy | 3 | SOC 105
COUC 360 | Addiction and Recovery | 3 | PSY 315
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
PSY 370 | Psychological Testing | 3 | PSY 250
CMHC 401 | Foundations of Mental Health Counseling | 3 | None
CMHC 410 | Group Counseling Dynamics | 3 | COUC 301
PSY 415 | Child and Adolescent Psychology | 3 | PSY 201
THL 420 | Christian Apologetics in Care | 3 | THL 320
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
PSY 425 | Health Psychology | 3 | PSY 325
COUC 430 | Family Therapy Models | 3 | SOC 105
PSY 440 | Motivation and Leadership | 3 | PSY 220
CMHC 450 | Clinical Documentation | 3 | COUC 301
PSY 460 | Human Sexuality and Relationships | 3 | PSY 201
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
PSY 465 | Positive Psychology | 3 | PSY 102
COUC 470 | Interpersonal Conflict Resolution | 3 | COUC 301
PSY 475 | Sensation and Perception | 3 | PSY 325
SOC 480 | Organizational Management in Nonprofits | 3 | SOC 350
PSY 485 | Advanced Behavioral Analysis | 3 | PSY 340
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
PSY 490 | Professional Development | 3 | Senior Standing
PSY 492 | Internship I | 3 | Senior Standing
PSY 494 | Internship II | 3 | PSY 492
PSY 495 | Senior Seminar | 3 | Senior Standing
PSY 499 | Senior Capstone Thesis | 3 | Senior Standing

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Christian Counselor
School Counselor
Mental Health Technician
Chaplaincy in Mental Health Facilities
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Substance Abuse Counselor
Family Therapist

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

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.S. in Counseling & Psychology
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years