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degree · Bachelor · Admin revision 2026-10-14 08:51

Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Social Work, Specialization in Social Services Community Engagement

Academic unitHBIU College of Behavioral Social ScienceTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Social Work, Specialization in Social Services Community Engagement

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Social Work core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Social Work, Specialization in Social Services Community Engagement, provides an interdisciplinary foundation for students seeking to serve in community-focused, non-clinical roles. Students engage with sociological, psychological, and organizational theories while developing practical skills in community outreach, program management, and advocacy. The curriculum is designed to foster both analytical rigor and a commitment to servant leadership, ensuring graduates are prepared to address complex social needs through an ethical and values-driven lens. By examining the intersection of social welfare systems and communal organizational structures, the program encourages a holistic understanding of how faith-informed principles can promote social well-being and effective service delivery in diverse populations. Students will explore the role of civic engagement and resource stewardship as essential components of institutional stability and community growth.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Social Work, Specialization in Social Services Community Engagement, combines a robust general education foundation with comprehensive study in social work theory, behavioral science, human development, professional ethics, research methodology, crisis awareness, referral systems, 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 Faith-Based Social Work, Specialization in Social Services Community Engagement
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

  • Analyze social issues through the integration of sociological theories and faith-based ethical frameworks.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of community engagement strategies in addressing local resource needs.
  • Develop evidence-based outreach programs that support the mission and vision of nonprofit organizations.
  • Apply principles of servant leadership and stewardship to management and volunteer coordination tasks.
  • Communicate professional research findings to diverse community stakeholders to advocate for systemic improvements.
  • Integrate spiritual formation and ethical reasoning into daily professional decision-making processes.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Inquiry
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY101
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC101
  • Introduction to Social Work Practice
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Inquiry: This course focuses on developing the critical reading, research, and writing skills necessary for university-level academic success. Students analyze various texts to produce coherent and persuasive compositions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC101 — Introduction to Sociology: Students examine the social structures, institutions, and cultural processes that shape human behavior and community interactions. Emphasis is placed on understanding the nature of social change and inequality. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY101 — Introduction to Psychology: This course provides an overview of psychological perspectives, covering topics such as human development, cognition, and personality. Students explore factors that influence behavior in various social environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC101 — Introduction to Social Work Practice: This course examines the foundational principles and historical development of the social work profession. Students explore the values and ethics necessary for effective practice in diverse societal contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG102
  • Advanced Composition and Rhetoric
  • 3
  • ENG101
  • SOC105
  • Social Problems and Justice
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • MAT110
  • Statistics for Social Sciences
  • 3
  • None
  • MIN105
  • Foundations of Servant Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG102 — Advanced Composition and Rhetoric: Building on foundational writing, this course emphasizes argumentation, rhetorical analysis, and the use of source materials. Students develop advanced strategies for professional communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC105 — Social Problems and Justice: This course addresses contemporary social issues, exploring the root causes of poverty, discrimination, and urban decay. Students analyze various systemic interventions from a social justice perspective. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MAT110 — Statistics for Social Sciences: This course covers foundational statistical methods, including data collection, descriptive statistics, and basic probability. Students apply quantitative reasoning to real-world social data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MIN105 — Foundations of Servant Leadership: Students examine the philosophy and practice of servant leadership, focusing on humility, influence, and the empowerment of others. Principles are applied to modern organizational dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU201
  • Foundations of Human Relations
  • 3
  • PSY101
  • SOC210
  • Community Organization Theory
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • BUS205
  • Nonprofit Organizational Management
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS250
  • History of Social Welfare
  • 3
  • None
  • COU201 — Foundations of Human Relations: This course explores the dynamics of interpersonal communication and relationship management in diverse settings. Students practice active listening and conflict resolution techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC210 — Community Organization Theory: Students analyze the processes of community development, exploring models of organizing and advocacy. The course highlights the importance of social capital in building resilient neighborhoods. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS205 — Nonprofit Organizational Management: This course covers the operational aspects of nonprofit organizations, including volunteer management and board governance. Students explore strategies for effective resource administration. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS250 — History of Social Welfare: Students review the development of social welfare systems, focusing on historical approaches to poverty and community assistance. The course encourages an appreciation for past lessons in social policy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • SOC225
  • Families in Modern Society
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • RES205
  • Social Research Methods
  • 3
  • MAT110
  • COM220
  • Professional Communication Strategies
  • 3
  • ENG102
  • THE220

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, demonstrating a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. The admissions process requires the submission of official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining the candidate's commitment to community service, and two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references. Applicants are evaluated on their academic readiness, personal integrity, and alignment with the institution’s mission to foster service-oriented leadership. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Social Work, representing 4 credit hours of dedicated research and implementation. Students are required to design, execute, and evaluate a comprehensive community engagement initiative that addresses a real-world social need within a local nonprofit organization. This project mandates the synthesis of prior coursework, requiring students to demonstrate mastery of social work principles, grant-writing basics, and strategic organizational management. Beyond the academic deliverables—which include a formal research paper and a project assessment report—students must present their findings to a faculty panel and community partners, showcasing their ability to translate theory into practice. At the core of the Capstone experience is the integration of a Christian worldview and faith-informed ethical reasoning. Students must demonstrate how their project reflects biblical stewardship and servant leadership, critically reflecting on how their professional work serves the inherent dignity of community members. By identifying the intersection of their vocational training and spiritual formation, students articulate a cohesive vision for their future service. The Capstone is not merely a technical exercise; it is an act of character development that requires students to exhibit personal integrity, humility, and a steadfast commitment to justice in their community engagements.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To qualify for the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Social Work, students must successfully complete 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. All core requirements, including the successful completion of the 4-credit Senior Capstone Project, must be met with a passing grade. Beyond academic achievement, students are expected to engage in consistent spiritual formation through the university’s chapel program and complete a designated number of service-learning hours, ensuring that intellectual growth is paired with the development of moral and ethical character.
  • Graduation represents a milestone of spiritual maturity and academic competency. Candidates must demonstrate readiness for faith-informed service by articulating a professional code of ethics rooted in compassion, justice, and vocational discernment. By maintaining institutional standards for ethical behavior and service commitment, graduates emerge as individuals prepared to contribute to the common good with both technical proficiency and a heart for service.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Nonprofit Program Assistant
  • Faith-Based Social Services Case Aide
  • Volunteer Services Manager
  • Advocacy and Policy Researcher
  • Family Support Liaison
  • Director of Community Development
  • 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 Social Work, Specialization in Social Services Community Engagement
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Social Work core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Inquiry | 3 | None
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Social Work Practice | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG102 | Advanced Composition and Rhetoric | 3 | ENG101
  • SOC105 | Social Problems and Justice | 3 | SOC101
  • MAT110 | Statistics for Social Sciences | 3 | None
  • MIN105 | Foundations of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU201 | Foundations of Human Relations | 3 | PSY101
  • SOC210 | Community Organization Theory | 3 | SOC101
  • BUS205 | Nonprofit Organizational Management | 3 | None
  • HIS250 | History of Social Welfare | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC225 | Families in Modern Society | 3 | SOC101
  • RES205 | Social Research Methods | 3 | MAT110
  • COM220 | Professional Communication Strategies | 3 | ENG102
  • THE220 | Ethics in Social Service | 4 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC310 | Urban Sociology and Community Engagement | 3 | SOC101
  • COU305 | Crisis Intervention and Advocacy | 3 | COU201
  • BUS315 | Grant Writing and Fundraising | 3 | BUS205
  • PSY310 | Psychology of Personal Development | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC350 | Social Stratification and Policy | 3 | SOC105
  • PSY330 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | PSY101
  • EDU320 | Educational Advocacy in the Community | 3 | None
  • BUS350 | Strategic Planning for Social Programs | 3 | BUS205
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC410 | Globalization and Community Trends | 3 | SOC101
  • COU405 | Group Dynamics and Facilitation | 3 | COU201
  • MGT420 | Leadership in Nonprofit Organizations | 3 | MIN105
  • RES400 | Advanced Program Evaluation | 4 | RES205
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES400
  • SOC450 | Contemporary Issues in Social Services | 3 | SOC101
  • BUS480 | Financial Stewardship for Nonprofits | 3 | BUS315
  • SOC495 | Capstone Seminar in Social Policy and Community Engagement | 3 | THE220

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Nonprofit Program Assistant
  • Faith-Based Social Services Case Aide
  • Volunteer Services Manager
  • Advocacy and Policy Researcher
  • Family Support Liaison
  • Director of Community Development

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 Social Work, Specialization in Social Services Community Engagement
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years