Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Graphic Design (Specialization in Digital Advocacy, Branding)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Graphic Design

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Graphic Design core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Graphic Design is a comprehensive program designed to cultivate technical proficiency in visual communication alongside a foundational commitment to ethical storytelling and community service. Students engage with industry-standard design software, typographic theory, and color aesthetics, while simultaneously exploring the sociological and psychological impact of visual media within diverse community landscapes. By emphasizing the intersection of creative excellence and social responsibility, the curriculum ensures that graduates possess the artistic acumen necessary to elevate the visual presence of mission-driven organizations. The program fosters an environment where technical skill-building is inherently connected to the principles of stewardship and service, encouraging students to view their design work as a vital tool for organizational growth and societal influence. Through rigorous engagement with both theory and practice, students develop a professional portfolio that reflects high-quality design work informed by a commitment to ethical integrity and organizational excellence.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Graphic Design provides a comprehensive foundational study in digital design, branding, and visual communication integrated with faith-based principles. This program prepares students to navigate the intersection of aesthetic development and purposeful messaging through an exploration of human development, communication theory, Christian ethics, and the application of creative community resources. Students gain technical proficiency and theoretical understanding necessary for effective professional practice in digital advocacy and media production within faith-centered organizational contexts.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

• Faith-Based Graphic Design core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• HUM101 | Foundations of Visual Design | 4 | None
• ENG101 | Academic Composition | 3 | None
• BUS105 | Principles of Organizational Management | 3 | None
• COM110 | Digital Communication Ethics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• HUM205 | Graphic Design Software Applications | 4 | HUM101
• SOC120 | Community Dynamics and Engagement | 3 | None
• MGT210 | Branding and Marketing Strategy | 3 | BUS105
• MAT102 | Quantitative Reasoning for Social Impact | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• HUM305 | Advanced Digital Advocacy | 4 | HUM205
• PSY220 | Psychology of Visual Persuasion | 3 | None
• PHI230 | Applied Ethics and Social Responsibility | 3 | None
• COM310 | Content Creation for Digital Media | 3 | HUM205
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DES400 | Integrative Design for Social Advocacy | 4 | All Core Courses
• BUS320 | Nonprofit Resource Stewardship | 3 | BUS105
• HIS250 | History of Social Reform Movements | 3 | None
• EDU205 | Collaborative Leadership Practices | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

• Nonprofit Communications Coordinator
• Faith-Based Branding Specialist
• Digital Advocacy Graphic Designer
• Community Outreach Media Manager
• Social Media Specialist for Nonprofit Organizations
• Public Relations Assistant
• Content Strategist for Ministries

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 Graphic Design
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years