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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Leadership Studies

Academic unitHBIU College of LeadershipTotal credits135Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Leadership Studies

Total program length

135 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Leadership Studies core

78 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Leadership Studies equips students with the essential knowledge and skills for effective servant leadership across diverse sectors through the framework of a robust Christian worldview. This interdisciplinary program focuses on developing critical thinking, effective communication, and ethical reasoning, grounded in biblical stewardship and the intentional pursuit of spiritual formation. Students will examine the influence of theological commitments on leadership praxis, preparing them to serve with integrity in community organizations, faith-based nonprofits, and corporate environments. By integrating experiential learning—including internships and leadership projects—with rigorous academic inquiry, the program fosters a sense of vocation that prepares graduates to become transformative leaders who cultivate inclusive environments and honor God in their professional spheres.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Leadership Studies program combines a robust general education foundation with comprehensive study in faith-based leadership theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support. This integrated approach equips students to navigate complex organizational environments while maintaining a strong commitment to spiritual and ethical principles.

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 Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
B.A. in Faith-Based Leadership Studies
Total program length
135 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 Leadership
Total credits
135
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Articulate key leadership theories and their practical applications in various contexts.
  • Analyze the influence of religious beliefs on leadership practices and community dynamics.
  • Demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills in leadership roles.
  • Apply ethical decision-making processes to real-world leadership challenges.
  • Develop strategic plans that incorporate diverse perspectives and cultural sensitivities.
  • Conduct research on leadership trends and issues, presenting findings to diverse audiences.
  • Work collaboratively in team settings to achieve common goals.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM 101
  • Introduction to Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • COM 101
  • Public Speaking
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG 101
  • English Composition I
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS 101
  • World History I
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 101
  • General Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • SCI 101
  • Environmental Science
  • 3
  • None
  • COM 101 — Introduction to Communication: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM 101 — Public Speaking: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ENG 101 — English Composition I: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS 101 — World History I: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY 101 — General Psychology: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SCI 101 — Environmental Science: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • SOC 101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG 102
  • English Composition II
  • 3
  • English Composition I (ENG 101)
  • HIS 102
  • World History II
  • 3
  • None
  • SCI 102
  • Biology for Non-Majors
  • 3
  • None
  • IT 110
  • Computer Applications & Digital Literacy
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT 110
  • College Algebra
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ENG 102 — English Composition II: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS 102 — World History II: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SCI 102 — Biology for Non-Majors: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • IT 110 — Computer Applications & Digital Literacy: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MAT 110 — College Algebra: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LDS 201
  • Introduction to Leadership Studies
  • 3
  • None
  • PHI 201
  • Introduction to Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • POL 201
  • American Government
  • 3
  • None
  • REL 201
  • Introduction to Religious Studies
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 202
  • Classical Leadership Theories
  • 3
  • None
  • ANT 210
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 201 — Introduction to Leadership Studies: Overview of leadership concepts, theories, and practicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PHI 201 — Introduction to Ethics: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • POL 201 — American Government: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • REL 201 — Introduction to Religious Studies: Overview of religious traditions, practices, and beliefsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 202 — Classical Leadership Theories: Examination of classical leadership theories and their applicationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ANT 210 — Cultural Anthropology: Study of human cultures, societies, and cultural variationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CUL 210
  • Cultural Diversity Studies
  • 3
  • None
  • ECO 210
  • Principles of Economics
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS 210
  • Modern World History
  • 3
  • None
  • LAW 210
  • Law, Ethics & Society
  • 3
  • None
  • PHI 210
  • Logic & Critical Thinking
  • 3
  • None
  • POL 210
  • Political Theory
  • 3
  • None
  • CUL 210 — Cultural Diversity Studies: Exploration of cultural diversity and intercultural communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ECO 210 — Principles of Economics: Fundamental principles of micro and macroeconomicsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS 210 — Modern World History: Survey of major events and trends in modern world historyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LAW 210 — Law, Ethics & Society: Examination of legal systems, ethical principles, and societal impactsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PHI 210 — Logic & Critical Thinking: Development of logical reasoning and critical thinking skillsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • POL 210 — Political Theory: Fundamental concepts and theories of political thoughtThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 210
  • Social Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC 210
  • Social Institutions
  • 3
  • None
  • STA 210
  • Statistics
  • 3
  • None
  • COM 220
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • ELE 301
  • Organizational Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 301
  • Contemporary Leadership Models
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 210 — Social Psychology: Psychological principles of social behavior and group dynamicsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 210 — Social Institutions: Study of major social institutions and their role in societyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • STA 210 — Statistics: This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM 220 — Interpersonal Communication: Theory and practice of effective interpersonal communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ELE 301 — Organizational Psychology: Psychological principles applied to organizational behavior and leadershipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 301 — Contemporary Leadership Models: Analysis of modern leadership models and frameworksThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • REL 301
  • Christianity & Society
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 302
  • Ethical Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • REL 302
  • Religion & Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • ELE 303
  • Conflict Resolution & Mediation
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 303
  • Leadership Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • REL 303
  • Comparative Religion
  • 3
  • None
  • REL 301 — Christianity & Society: Examination of Christianity's role and impact on societyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 302 — Ethical Leadership: Exploration of ethical principles and moral decision-making in leadershipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • REL 302 — Religion & Ethics: Exploration of religious perspectives on ethical issuesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ELE 303 — Conflict Resolution & Mediation: Skills and strategies for resolving conflicts and facilitating mediationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 303 — Leadership Communication: Communication strategies and skills for effective leadershipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • REL 303 — Comparative Religion: Comparative study of world religions and belief systemsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ELE 304
  • Leadership Coaching & Mentoring
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 304
  • Decision-Making & Problem Solving
  • 3
  • None
  • REL 304
  • Religion, Culture & Social Change
  • 3
  • None
  • ELE 306
  • Crisis & Change Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • ELE 307
  • Global Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • ELE 308
  • Community Leadership Development
  • 3
  • None
  • ELE 304 — Leadership Coaching & Mentoring: Principles and practices of coaching and mentoring leadersThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 304 — Decision-Making & Problem Solving: Analytical approaches to decision-making and problem-solving in leadershipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • REL 304 — Religion, Culture & Social Change: Analysis of religion's influence on culture and social transformationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ELE 306 — Crisis & Change Leadership: Leading organizations through crisis and organizational changeThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ELE 307 — Global Leadership: Leadership in global and multicultural contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ELE 308 — Community Leadership Development: Developing leadership capacity within communitiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LDS 401
  • Strategic Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 402
  • Leadership in Public & Nonprofit Sectors
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 403
  • Leadership Research Methods
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 490
  • Leadership Internship
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 491
  • Leadership Capstone Project
  • 3
  • Completion of core Leadership Studies courses, including Leadership Theory and Ethics.
  • MADC 500
  • Spiritual Formation
  • 3
  • None
  • LDS 401 — Strategic Leadership: Strategic thinking and planning for organizational leadershipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 402 — Leadership in Public & Nonprofit Sectors: Leadership challenges and practices in public and nonprofit organizationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 403 — Leadership Research Methods: Research methods and analysis for leadership studiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 490 — Leadership Internship: Supervised practical experience in leadership settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LDS 491 — Leadership Capstone Project: Comprehensive capstone project demonstrating leadership competenciesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MADC 500 — Spiritual Formation: 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 with a minimum GPA of 2.5. A personal statement outlining interest in leadership and religious studies is also required. Senior Capstone Project The senior capstone project serves as a comprehensive synthesis of the student's academic journey, requiring the development and implementation of a leadership initiative that addresses a real-world challenge through the lens of biblical stewardship. Students must demonstrate mastery of leadership theories by proposing a strategic plan that reflects ethical reasoning and a commitment to servant leadership, supported by a formal reflection on their own spiritual formation. This project culminates in a scholarly presentation and portfolio that articulates how the graduate will apply a Christian worldview to navigate the complexities of their chosen field and contribute to the common good.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Leadership Studies, students must successfully complete a minimum of 120 credit hours, maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher. The curriculum requires the completion of all core leadership courses, the minor in religious studies, and the senior capstone project, all of which are designed to emphasize the integration of faith and practice. Candidates are expected to demonstrate consistent progress in their spiritual formation throughout their residency at HBI University. All institutional residency requirements must be satisfied, and final approval for graduation is contingent upon the successful fulfillment of all departmental assessment benchmarks related to professional ethics and leadership competencies.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Nonprofit Organization Manager
  • Faith-Based Community Leader
  • Corporate Trainer
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Public Relations Officer
  • Policy Advisor
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • 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 Leadership Studies
  • Total program length | 135 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Leadership Studies core | 78 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM 101 | Introduction to Communication | 3 | None
  • COM 101 | Public Speaking | 3 | None
  • ENG 101 | English Composition I | 3 | None
  • HIS 101 | World History I | 3 | None
  • PSY 101 | General Psychology | 3 | None
  • SCI 101 | Environmental Science | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • ENG 102 | English Composition II | 3 | English Composition I (ENG 101)
  • HIS 102 | World History II | 3 | None
  • SCI 102 | Biology for Non-Majors | 3 | None
  • IT 110 | Computer Applications & Digital Literacy | 3 | None
  • MAT 110 | College Algebra | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LDS 201 | Introduction to Leadership Studies | 3 | None
  • PHI 201 | Introduction to Ethics | 3 | None
  • POL 201 | American Government | 3 | None
  • REL 201 | Introduction to Religious Studies | 3 | None
  • LDS 202 | Classical Leadership Theories | 3 | None
  • ANT 210 | Cultural Anthropology | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CUL 210 | Cultural Diversity Studies | 3 | None
  • ECO 210 | Principles of Economics | 3 | None
  • HIS 210 | Modern World History | 3 | None
  • LAW 210 | Law, Ethics & Society | 3 | None
  • PHI 210 | Logic & Critical Thinking | 3 | None
  • POL 210 | Political Theory | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 210 | Social Psychology | 3 | None
  • SOC 210 | Social Institutions | 3 | None
  • STA 210 | Statistics | 3 | None
  • COM 220 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • ELE 301 | Organizational Psychology | 3 | None
  • LDS 301 | Contemporary Leadership Models | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • REL 301 | Christianity & Society | 3 | None
  • LDS 302 | Ethical Leadership | 3 | None
  • REL 302 | Religion & Ethics | 3 | None
  • ELE 303 | Conflict Resolution & Mediation | 3 | None
  • LDS 303 | Leadership Communication | 3 | None
  • REL 303 | Comparative Religion | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ELE 304 | Leadership Coaching & Mentoring | 3 | None
  • LDS 304 | Decision-Making & Problem Solving | 3 | None
  • REL 304 | Religion, Culture & Social Change | 3 | None
  • ELE 306 | Crisis & Change Leadership | 3 | None
  • ELE 307 | Global Leadership | 3 | None
  • ELE 308 | Community Leadership Development | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LDS 401 | Strategic Leadership | 3 | None
  • LDS 402 | Leadership in Public & Nonprofit Sectors | 3 | None
  • LDS 403 | Leadership Research Methods | 3 | None
  • LDS 490 | Leadership Internship | 3 | None
  • LDS 491 | Leadership Capstone Project | 3 | Completion of core Leadership Studies courses, including Leadership Theory and Ethics.
  • MADC 500 | Spiritual Formation | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Nonprofit Organization Manager
  • Faith-Based Community Leader
  • Corporate Trainer
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Public Relations Officer
  • Policy Advisor
  • Community Outreach Coordinator

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.A. in Faith-Based Leadership Studies
  • Total program length | 135 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years