← Programs CatalogAuthoritative HBIU program data

degree · Associate · Persisted candidate preview

Associate of Arts in Divinity (Specialization in Leadership, Ministry)

Academic unitHBIU SeminaryTotal credits60Estimated duration2 yearsSource documentAssociate_of_Arts_in_Divinity__Specialization_in_Leadership__Ministry_.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Divinity

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Theological and biblical studies core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Divinity with a specialization in Leadership and Ministry is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to cultivate both academic rigor and character development. The curriculum provides a balanced foundation in liberal arts and theological studies, fostering an environment where students examine the intersections of historical, cultural, and ethical frameworks within a contemporary context. Students engage in critical thinking and analytical discourse to understand the complexities of organizational leadership and interpersonal service.

Beyond traditional classroom instruction, the program emphasizes the practical application of leadership principles within diverse settings. By integrating academic inquiry with community-oriented values, the program equips students to address modern societal challenges through informed, ethical decision-making. The curriculum is structured to support the holistic development of students, ensuring they possess the competence and insight necessary for impactful service within their communities.

The Associate of Arts in Divinity with a specialization in Leadership and Ministry provides students with a foundational study in theological and biblical disciplines, human development, effective communication, and ethics. Through this curriculum, students engage with critical community resources and examine supportive service practices within faith-based contexts, fostering the essential skills required for leadership and ministerial work.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.A. in Divinity
Total program length
60 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Two academic years
General education
18 credit hours
Professional application courses
9 credit hours
Capstone requirement
3 credit hours
Academic unit
HBIU Seminary
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze foundational theological texts and their historical and cultural contexts.
  • Evaluate diverse leadership models through the lens of ethical stewardship and organizational efficiency.
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills through academic writing, interpersonal engagement, and public discourse.
  • Apply biblical principles of integrity and servant leadership to contemporary management and administrative challenges.
  • Develop a personal philosophy of service that balances vocational excellence with intentional community impact.
  • Integrate spiritual formation practices into the design of organizational ministry programs.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or state-recognized equivalent (such as a GED). Prospective students are required to submit official transcripts, a statement of intent detailing their academic goals, and at least one character reference that highlights their potential for ethical and communal engagement. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the final academic demonstration of the student’s mastery of program concepts. In this course, students design a comprehensive project that addresses a specific need within a community, church, or nonprofit organization, requiring the synthesis of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Deliverables include a formal research paper and a strategic implementation plan that models sustainable growth and servant-led management. This project bridges the gap between scholarly research and faith-informed practice. Students must articulate how their work reflects principles of stewardship, ethical reasoning, and a Christian worldview, demonstrating their capacity to lead with integrity. By evaluating the success of their project through both quantitative and qualitative metrics, students exhibit their readiness to serve as agents of positive change within their future spheres of influence.

Program Structure

Official program structure

Program Details

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

Semester-by-Semester Curriculum

Official course sequence

Year 1

Semester 1

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ENG101College Composition4None
View Description

This course focuses on the development of critical thinking and effective communication skills through academic writing. Students analyze various discourse styles to produce clear and persuasive arguments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

THE105Foundations of Theology4None
View Description

An introduction to the fundamental concepts and historical developments of theological thought. Students explore the intersection of belief systems and societal ethics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS110World History and Culture3None
View Description

This course surveys major global movements and their impact on contemporary culture. It emphasizes the social and intellectual currents that have shaped human societies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MIN120Spiritual Formation3None
View Description

An examination of the practices and disciplines that foster spiritual growth and personal integrity. Students reflect on the relationship between interior life and exterior service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
MAT150Quantitative Reasoning3None
View Description

This course covers foundational mathematical concepts with an emphasis on data analysis and logical problem-solving. Students practice applying statistics to real-world scenarios. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC201Sociology of Communities3None
View Description

A study of social dynamics, group behaviors, and the role of institutions in community building. The course focuses on identifying needs and fostering collaborative environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT210Organizational Leadership4None
View Description

An exploration of leadership styles, team management, and the organizational principles that drive efficiency. Students evaluate models of servant leadership in professional settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR220Ethics in Service4THE105
View Description

An analysis of moral decision-making within the context of public and private service. The course emphasizes stewardship of resources and ethical integrity in professional conduct. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
COM230Interpersonal Communication3None
View Description

Focuses on developing effective verbal and nonverbal communication strategies for professional environments. Students practice conflict resolution and empathetic listening skills. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PSY240Developmental Psychology3None
View Description

Examines the physical, cognitive, and social development of individuals across the lifespan. This knowledge is applied to understanding community needs and support structures. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MIN250Ministry Administration4MGT210
View Description

Covers the practical aspects of managing administrative operations for outreach organizations. Topics include budgeting, volunteer coordination, and strategic planning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES260Research Methods4MAT150
View Description

An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methodologies for addressing community problems. Students learn to gather, interpret, and present data effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
HUM270Cultural Studies3None
View Description

Explores the diversity of human expressions and the importance of cross-cultural competence. Students analyze how culture influences community engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS280Resource Management3None
View Description

Examines the responsible management of financial and human capital within the nonprofit sector. Students explore sustainable stewardship practices. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MIN290Practicum in Ministry3MIN250
View Description

A field-based experience where students observe and assist with leadership duties in an approved professional setting. Students reflect on the practical application of classroom theories. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CAP299Senior Capstone Project5RES260
View Description

Students integrate their academic learning into a comprehensive project that addresses a critical need within an organization. This final assessment requires a formal research paper and a strategic implementation plan demonstrating ethical stewardship and servant leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Major / Core Requirements

Major and core requirements

General education | 18 credit hours

  • Theological and biblical studies core | 30 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Final Project Requirement

Final project requirement

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG101 | College Composition | 4 | None
  • THE105 | Foundations of Theology | 4 | None
  • HIS110 | World History and Culture | 3 | None
  • MIN120 | Spiritual Formation | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MAT150 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
  • SOC201 | Sociology of Communities | 3 | None
  • MGT210 | Organizational Leadership | 4 | None
  • CHR220 | Ethics in Service | 4 | THE105
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM230 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • PSY240 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | None
  • MIN250 | Ministry Administration | 4 | MGT210
  • RES260 | Research Methods | 4 | MAT150
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • HUM270 | Cultural Studies | 3 | None
  • BUS280 | Resource Management | 3 | None
  • MIN290 | Practicum in Ministry | 3 | MIN250
  • CAP299 | Senior Capstone Project | 5 | RES260
  • CAP299Senior Capstone Project5 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 60 total credit hours with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0. Students must earn a passing grade in all required core and elective courses, including the successful defense of the Capstone Project. The program mandates that students maintain high standards of academic honesty and ethical integrity throughout their enrollment.
  • In addition to academic achievement, students are expected to participate in institutional faith-formation requirements, including regular community engagement activities and structured spiritual formation sessions. These requirements ensure that graduates leave not only with a degree but with a demonstrated commitment to servant leadership, character development, and a readiness to serve in ways that align with their spiritual and professional values.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Nonprofit Program Coordinator
  • Church Operations Assistant
  • Community Outreach Director
  • Ministry Administrator
  • Volunteer Services Manager
  • Pastoral Administrative Aide

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 | A.A. in Divinity
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years