Associate of Arts in Divinity (Specialization in Mental Health Counseling)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Divinity, Major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Divinity and Clinical Mental Health Counseling core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Divinity with a major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides students with a foundational understanding of behavioral science integrated with an ethic of service and stewardship. The curriculum balances rigorous psychological theory with a framework for community engagement, preparing students to support individuals through holistic, evidence-based approaches to human wellness. Students engage in the study of human development, interpersonal communication, and social behavioral dynamics to better understand the complexities of modern social landscapes. By bridging the gap between clinical theory and vocational application, the program equips graduates to operate effectively within nonprofit and faith-based settings. It fosters a commitment to excellence and professional integrity as students prepare for entry-level roles in social and community support services.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Divinity, Major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, provides a foundational study in the psychological and theological dimensions of clinical mental health. This program integrates essential curriculum regarding human development, interpersonal communication, and professional ethics with an exploration of community resources and supportive service practices, preparing students to engage with diverse populations through a faith-based lens.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

• Faith-Based Divinity and Clinical Mental Health Counseling core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
• ENG101 | Academic Writing and Research | 3 | None
• MIN105 | Foundations of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
• MAT110 | Statistics for Behavioral Science | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PSY202 | Developmental Psychology | 4 | PSY101
• SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• COM210 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• CHR120 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU301 | Counseling Theory and Practice | 4 | PSY101
• PSY310 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 | PSY101
• HUM205 | Global Perspectives on Human Needs | 3 | None
• RES250 | Research Methods for Social Services | 3 | MAT110
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP299 | Clinical Counseling Capstone Project | 4 | RES250
• COU415 | Crisis Intervention and Support | 3 | COU301
• BUS320 | Management of Nonprofit Organizations | 3 | None
• THE220 | Spiritual Formation and Character | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

• Community Support Specialist
• Nonprofit Program Assistant
• Mental Health Case Aide
• Youth Ministry Support Coordinator
• Human Services Coordinator
• Behavioral Health Outreach Worker
• Crisis Intervention Intake Associate

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 Faith-Based Divinity, Major in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years