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Bachelor of Arts in Theology, Ethics, Specialization in Leadership

Academic unitHBIU SeminaryTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Theology, Ethics, 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

The Bachelor of Arts in Theology, Ethics, and Leadership offers a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum designed to cultivate intellectual depth and vocational excellence. Students engage in the systematic study of theological frameworks, moral philosophy, and organizational leadership principles within a scholarly environment that emphasizes critical inquiry and ethical reflection. The program is structured to bridge the gap between abstract academic concepts and the practical realities of managing and leading in complex community environments. Through a blend of theoretical study and applied practice, students develop the analytical skills necessary to address contemporary societal challenges. This curriculum encourages students to examine their assumptions, articulate robust arguments, and synthesize diverse perspectives into a cohesive worldview. By prioritizing evidence-based research and collaborative dialogue, the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the intersection of academic study and organizational service.

The Bachelor of Arts in Theology, Ethics, and Specialization in Leadership program combines a robust foundation in general education with comprehensive study in theological theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research methodology, crisis awareness, referral protocols, program development, and community-based support strategies.

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 Theology, Ethics, 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

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze foundational theological texts and philosophical frameworks to inform contemporary moral decision-making.
  • Evaluate diverse leadership models through the lens of servant-leadership and stewardship theories.
  • Apply ethical principles to complex organizational dilemmas to foster inclusive and sustainable institutional practices.
  • Design comprehensive strategies for community engagement that align organizational mission with societal needs.
  • Communicate complex theological and ethical concepts effectively across diverse professional and community audiences.
  • Integrate a Christian worldview with professional competencies to promote institutional growth and character development.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • 4
  • None
  • THE101
  • Foundations of Theology
  • 4
  • None
  • SOC101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS101
  • History of Western Civilization
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: This course focuses on the development of critical thinking and written communication skills through the examination of diverse texts. Students will refine their ability to structure arguments and articulate complex ideas clearly. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • THE101 — Foundations of Theology: This course introduces the systematic study of Christian doctrine and its historical development. Students examine key theological themes and their relevance to modern discourse. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC101 — Introduction to Sociology: This course explores the study of human society, focusing on social structures, institutions, and interactions. It provides a basis for understanding how individuals function within communal groups. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS101 — History of Western Civilization: This course surveys the major political, social, and intellectual developments in Western history. Students will analyze how past events have shaped modern institutional frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MAT150
  • Statistics for the Social Sciences
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR110
  • Biblical Literature
  • 3
  • THE101
  • PSY101
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • COM120
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT150 — Statistics for the Social Sciences: This course covers the fundamentals of descriptive and inferential statistics as applied to social research. Students will learn to analyze data to support informed decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CHR110 — Biblical Literature: This course provides an overview of the Old and New Testament, focusing on historical context and literary analysis. It aims to develop a deep understanding of primary source material. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY101 — Introduction to Psychology: This course covers the biological, cognitive, and social foundations of human behavior. Students will gain insights into group dynamics and interpersonal communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM120 — Interpersonal Communication: This course addresses the dynamics of effective communication in both individual and group settings. Emphasis is placed on active listening and conflict resolution strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • THE201
  • Christian Ethics
  • 4
  • THE101
  • MGT200
  • Principles of Organizational Leadership
  • 4
  • None
  • HUM205
  • World Religions
  • 3
  • None
  • RES210
  • Research Methods
  • 3
  • MAT150
  • THE201 — Christian Ethics: This course examines moral philosophy and the application of ethical frameworks to personal and professional life. Students engage with classical and contemporary debates regarding justice and integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT200 — Principles of Organizational Leadership: This course explores the fundamental principles of organizational structure and leadership styles. Topics include team development, goal setting, and motivation in the workplace. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM205 — World Religions: This course provides a comparative analysis of major global religious traditions and their cultural impact. It encourages students to engage respectfully with diverse belief systems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES210 — Research Methods: This course introduces methodologies for conducting research in theology and the social sciences. Students will learn to formulate research questions and gather relevant information. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MIN220
  • Stewardship and Resource Management
  • 3
  • MGT200
  • BUS250
  • Business Law and Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • EDU210
  • Principles of Education and Training
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC240
  • Sociology of Community Development
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • MIN220 — Stewardship and Resource Management: This course examines the principles of responsible stewardship of financial and human resources. It provides practical training for administrative roles in service-oriented institutions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS250 — Business Law and Ethics: This course covers legal principles relevant to nonprofit and organizational management. It highlights the intersection of compliance, accountability, and organizational integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU210 — Principles of Education and Training: This course focuses on adult learning theories and pedagogical strategies for professional training. Students gain skills for leading workshops and staff development sessions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC240 — Sociology of Community Development: This course investigates the theories of community organization and the impact of social programs on local populations. It emphasizes the importance of community-led initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • THE301
  • Advanced Theological Inquiry
  • 4
  • THE201
  • MGT320
  • Strategic Leadership
  • 4
  • MGT200
  • COU310
  • Conflict Resolution and Mediation
  • 3
  • COM120
  • CRJ330
  • Restorative Justice Systems
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • THE301 — Advanced Theological Inquiry: This course provides an in-depth analysis of specific theological doctrines and their application to contemporary issues. It challenges students to synthesize high-level theological concepts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT320 — Strategic Leadership: This course focuses on the development of vision and the execution of organizational strategy. Students examine how leaders navigate change and foster institutional growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COU310 — Conflict Resolution and Mediation: This course provides practical techniques for resolving disputes within organizational and community settings. Students learn the importance of empathy and mediation in leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CRJ330 — Restorative Justice Systems: This course explores the philosophy and practice of restorative justice, emphasizing healing and reconciliation. It evaluates the impact of systemic policies on marginalized communities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MIN350
  • Organizational Communication and Advocacy
  • 3
  • COM120
  • BUS380
  • Nonprofit Financial Oversight
  • 3
  • MIN220
  • PSY350
  • Organizational Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY101
  • HIS350
  • History of Social Reform Movements
  • 3
  • HIS101
  • MIN350 — Organizational Communication and Advocacy: This course examines the role of communication in organizational advocacy and public outreach. Students analyze strategies for building support for community missions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS380 — Nonprofit Financial Oversight: This course covers the fundamentals of financial literacy for nonprofit management, including budgeting and transparency. It emphasizes fiduciary duty and ethical reporting practices. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY350 — Organizational Psychology: This course explores psychological principles in the workplace, including culture, employee engagement, and leadership effectiveness. It provides tools for creating healthy organizational environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS350 — History of Social Reform Movements: This course examines the history of reform movements and their impact on social and religious policy. It demonstrates how advocacy can lead to structural change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • THE401
  • Global Theology and Social Ethics
  • 4
  • THE301
  • MGT450
  • Advanced Leadership and Governance
  • 4
  • MGT320
  • SOC420
  • Sociology of Family and Community
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • RES450
  • Capstone Proposal Development
  • 3
  • RES210
  • THE401 — Global Theology and Social Ethics: This course explores global perspectives on theology and ethics, focusing on issues of justice and humanitarian action. Students learn to address complex ethical questions in a global context. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT450 — Advanced Leadership and Governance: This course addresses the complexities of governance in nonprofit and religious organizations. It focuses on board development, accountability, and long-term sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC420 — Sociology of Family and Community: This course investigates the relationship between family structures and community health. It emphasizes the role of institutions in supporting societal well-being. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES450 — Capstone Proposal Development: This course guides students in the preliminary planning and research for their final capstone project. Students will finalize their topics, literature reviews, and project scopes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP490
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 4
  • RES450
  • MIN480
  • Leadership in Practice
  • 3
  • MGT450
  • CHR450
  • Integrative Theology Seminar
  • 3
  • THE401
  • BUS495
  • Professional Development and Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: This culminating course requires students to synthesize their program knowledge into a comprehensive project addressing a tangible community challenge. Students demonstrate leadership, ethical reasoning, and academic rigor through their final deliverables. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MIN480 — Leadership in Practice: This course focuses on practical leadership skills through reflection on service and organizational dynamics. It prepares students for the transition into professional or community leadership roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CHR450 — Integrative Theology Seminar: This seminar brings together seniors to discuss the integration of faith and practice in their future careers. Students articulate their personal philosophies of service and leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS495 — Professional Development and Ethics: This course addresses career readiness, ethical professional conduct, and lifelong learning in a global economy. It emphasizes character integrity in the professional sphere. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, demonstrating academic readiness for university-level study through a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Prospective students are required to submit official transcripts, a statement of intent detailing their vocational interests, and two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to engaging with the institution's values, reflecting an openness to character development and academic rigor. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the program, requiring students to synthesize their learning across theology, ethics, and leadership disciplines. This project provides an opportunity for students to address a real-world organizational challenge through the application of academic research and ethical analysis. Students are expected to produce a formal thesis-style paper accompanied by a strategic implementation plan that demonstrates mastery of their specialization. This 4-credit course requires students to integrate servant leadership principles and biblical stewardship into their proposed solutions, ensuring that their work reflects both professional competence and faith-informed ethical integrity. The project serves as a bridge to post-graduate service, demonstrating the student's capacity for academic rigor and character-driven leadership. Deliverables include a comprehensive research report and a formal presentation that illustrates the intersection of their intellectual work and their commitment to community-based impact.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To graduate, students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. In addition to academic coursework, graduates must successfully defend their Senior Capstone Project, demonstrating mastery of the program's core learning outcomes. Students are also expected to fulfill requirements for spiritual formation and community service, which are integrated into the program to foster character development and ethical integrity. Graduation signifies the synthesis of academic achievement with a demonstrated readiness for life-long service and faith-informed professional engagement. Candidates are evaluated not only on their intellectual mastery but also on their commitment to applying their education toward the betterment of their communities through humble, ethical, and purpose-driven practice.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Nonprofit Organization Manager
  • Community Relations Coordinator
  • Church Educational Administrator
  • Policy Analyst for Faith-Based Organizations
  • Human Resources Specialist in Nonprofits
  • Communications Director for Social Services
  • Program Director for Community Outreach
  • 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 Theology, Ethics, 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 | 4 | None
  • THE101 | Foundations of Theology | 4 | None
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • HIS101 | History of Western Civilization | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MAT150 | Statistics for the Social Sciences | 3 | None
  • CHR110 | Biblical Literature | 3 | THE101
  • PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
  • COM120 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • THE201 | Christian Ethics | 4 | THE101
  • MGT200 | Principles of Organizational Leadership | 4 | None
  • HUM205 | World Religions | 3 | None
  • RES210 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT150
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MIN220 | Stewardship and Resource Management | 3 | MGT200
  • BUS250 | Business Law and Ethics | 3 | None
  • EDU210 | Principles of Education and Training | 3 | None
  • SOC240 | Sociology of Community Development | 3 | SOC101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • THE301 | Advanced Theological Inquiry | 4 | THE201
  • MGT320 | Strategic Leadership | 4 | MGT200
  • COU310 | Conflict Resolution and Mediation | 3 | COM120
  • CRJ330 | Restorative Justice Systems | 3 | SOC101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MIN350 | Organizational Communication and Advocacy | 3 | COM120
  • BUS380 | Nonprofit Financial Oversight | 3 | MIN220
  • PSY350 | Organizational Psychology | 3 | PSY101
  • HIS350 | History of Social Reform Movements | 3 | HIS101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • THE401 | Global Theology and Social Ethics | 4 | THE301
  • MGT450 | Advanced Leadership and Governance | 4 | MGT320
  • SOC420 | Sociology of Family and Community | 3 | SOC101
  • RES450 | Capstone Proposal Development | 3 | RES210
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES450
  • MIN480 | Leadership in Practice | 3 | MGT450
  • CHR450 | Integrative Theology Seminar | 3 | THE401
  • BUS495 | Professional Development and Ethics | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Nonprofit Organization Manager
  • Community Relations Coordinator
  • Church Educational Administrator
  • Policy Analyst for Faith-Based Organizations
  • Human Resources Specialist in Nonprofits
  • Communications Director for Social Services
  • Program Director for Community Outreach

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 Theology, Ethics, Specialization in Leadership
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years