Associate of Arts in Biblical Study (Specialization in Education)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Biblical Study

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Biblical Study core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Biblical Study, with a specialization in Biblical Education and Ministry, provides a robust foundation in theological inquiry, pedagogical theory, and ecclesiastical leadership. This two-year degree program is designed to equip students with the intellectual and practical tools necessary for informed engagement within diverse ministry contexts and community-based service organizations. Through a curriculum that emphasizes both rigorous academic study and the application of ethical principles, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the traditions, texts, and practices that shape contemporary faith communities. The program fosters critical thinking, research proficiency, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates to navigate complex social and interpersonal environments with integrity and purpose. By integrating theoretical academic knowledge with the demands of servant leadership, the program provides a holistic educational experience that prepares individuals for various roles within religious, educational, and nonprofit landscapes. Through collaborative learning and reflection, students are encouraged to connect their academic pursuits to the stewardship of their community and the development of their professional character.

The Associate of Arts in Biblical Study provides students with a foundational understanding of scriptural interpretation, theological principles, and the history of biblical thought. The curriculum integrates the study of human development and communication with a commitment to ethics, equipping students to utilize community resources and implement supportive service practices within various ministry and educational contexts.

Program Details

• Total Credits: 60
• Duration: 2 years
• Degree Level: Associate

General education | 18 credit hours

• Biblical Study core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Capstone Project

• 4
• RES280
• RES280 — Research Methodology: Techniques for data collection, research design, and formal analysis in organizational settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS230 — Organizational Stewardship: Principles of responsible resource management and strategic planning in mission-driven contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN290 — Community Engagement Strategies: This course analyzes effective communication and advocacy strategies for engaging local community networks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP299 — Capstone Project: A comprehensive research project integrating faith-based perspectives, servant leadership, and disciplinary skills into a final service-based application. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Composition | 4 | None
• THE101 | Foundations of Biblical Study | 4 | None
• SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 4 | None
• COM110 | Public Communication | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CHR120 | Ethics and Character Development | 4 | THE101
• MIN150 | Principles of Ministry Leadership | 4 | None
• EDU200 | Foundations of Instructional Design | 4 | None
• HIS210 | World History and Cultural Context | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THE220 | Hermeneutics and Interpretation | 4 | THE101
• EDU250 | Educational Ministry Practice | 4 | EDU200
• MIN260 | Nonprofit Organizational Management | 4 | MIN150
• PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES280 | Research Methodology | 4 | None
• BUS230 | Organizational Stewardship | 4 | None
• MIN290 | Community Engagement Strategies | 4 | None
• CAP299 | Capstone Project | 4 | RES280

Career Opportunities

• Ministry Program Coordinator
• Biblical Education Instructor
• Nonprofit Operations Assistant
• Youth and Family Ministry Associate
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Church Administrative Assistant
• Volunteer Services Director

Important Notices

• The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
• HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
• HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
• Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
• The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
• Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
• Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
• This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
• Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
• Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
• Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
• Degree abbreviation | A.A. in Biblical Study
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years