Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Cyber Security (Specialization in Cyber Security, Data Protection)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Cyber Security

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Cyber Security core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Cyber Security provides a rigorous foundation in the technical, legal, and ethical dimensions of information protection. Students engage with the core principles of network security, data integrity, and risk management through a lens of professional responsibility and technical proficiency. By integrating a commitment to ethical stewardship, the curriculum addresses the growing need for defenders of digital infrastructure in a complex information environment.

Designed for students seeking to apply technical skills within community-focused environments, this program emphasizes the intersection of cybersecurity practices and service-oriented leadership. Participants explore the methodologies of information assurance while developing a robust framework for decision-making that prioritizes integrity, privacy, and organizational resilience. The curriculum ensures that graduates are prepared to safeguard digital assets with diligence and foresight.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Cyber Security provides students with foundational study in information security, data protection, and network architecture within a faith-based framework. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of technical skills with ethical responsibility, professional communication, and digital stewardship. Students explore critical aspects of cyber defense and data integrity, preparing them to address modern technological vulnerabilities while utilizing appropriate community and organizational resources to uphold secure and supportive service practices.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

• Faith-Based Cyber Security core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Composition | 4 | None
• CYB100 | Foundations of Cybersecurity | 4 | None
• MAT120 | Quantitative Reasoning | 4 | None
• PHI101 | Professional Ethics in Technology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CYB110 | Network Security Fundamentals | 4 | CYB100
• BUS205 | Organizational Stewardship | 3 | None
• COM150 | Technical Communication | 4 | ENG101
• SOC101 | Community Dynamics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CYB200 | Data Protection and Privacy | 4 | CYB110
• CYB210 | Threat Assessment and Analysis | 4 | CYB110
• MIN200 | Servant Leadership | 3 | None
• RES200 | Research Methods in Informatics | 3 | MAT120
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP299 | Cyber Security Capstone Project | 4 | RES200, CYB200
• CYB220 | Cybersecurity Governance | 3 | CYB200
• PSY250 | Professional Development and Career Planning | 3 | THE101
• MGT210 | Resource Management | 3 | BUS205

Career Opportunities

• Information Security Analyst
• Network Support Technician
• Data Privacy Coordinator
• IT Systems Administrator
• Cyber Security Compliance Assistant
• Nonprofit Technology Consultant
• Digital Asset Manager

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 Cyber Security
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years