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Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Human Resources (Specialization in Management)

Academic unitCollege of Arts and HumanitiesTotal credits60Estimated duration2 yearsSource documentAssociate_of_Arts_in_Faith_Based_Human_Resources__Specialization_in_Management_.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Human Resources

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Human Resources core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Human Resources offers a comprehensive foundation in the principles of organizational management and human capital development. The program emphasizes the integration of professional administrative practices with an ethos of servant leadership and stewardship. Students examine the functional areas of human resources, including talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational behavior, while grounding their practices in ethical decision-making frameworks. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical application, students are prepared to contribute effectively to the operations of mission-driven organizations. The curriculum encourages critical reflection on how professional excellence in administrative roles can serve the broader needs of diverse communities. Students engage with contemporary challenges in the workplace through the lens of institutional integrity and social responsibility.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Human Resources provides comprehensive foundational study in the subject, emphasizing human development, effective communication strategies, organizational ethics, community resources, and supportive service practices. Students gain the essential knowledge required to integrate human resource management principles within a values-based framework, preparing them to contribute effectively to organizational culture and operational efficacy.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.A. in Faith-Based Human Resources
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
College of Arts and Humanities
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the fundamental concepts of human resource management and their application in diverse organizational structures.
  • Evaluate legal and ethical frameworks governing employment practices to ensure compliance and organizational integrity.
  • Apply principles of servant leadership to foster positive workplace culture and interpersonal relations.
  • Design effective talent acquisition and development strategies that align with organizational mission and stewardship goals.
  • Integrate professional administrative skills with a coherent understanding of ethical decision-making and community service.
  • Communicate complex human resource information clearly and professionally to diverse stakeholders.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students are required to submit an application, official transcripts from all secondary institutions attended, and a personal statement outlining their professional aspirations and commitment to values-based service. Admission is competitive and holistically reviewed based on academic preparedness and character alignment. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Human Resources, requiring students to synthesize their learning through a comprehensive organizational analysis or applied HR project. Students are expected to identify a specific challenge or process within a community organization and propose, implement, or evaluate a solution that demonstrates both technical human resource proficiency and a commitment to stewardship. Deliverables include a formal project report, a strategic summary, and a professional presentation evaluated by faculty for academic rigor and practical utility. The project is designed to integrate faith-based perspectives by requiring students to justify their management interventions through the lens of ethical reasoning and servant leadership. Students must demonstrate how their proposed solutions reflect biblical stewardship and an commitment to fostering the well-being of the workforce. This requirement evaluates the student's ability to balance organizational efficiency with a sincere dedication to the dignity of individuals, ensuring that their professional contributions are rooted in both academic competence and faith-informed character development.

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
BUS101Principles of Management4None
View Description

An introduction to the fundamental functions of management including planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. Students analyze organizational structure and professional communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ENG101College Composition3None
View Description

Develops essential skills in academic writing, critical reading, and logical argumentation. Students practice drafting, revising, and editing professional documents. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC101Introduction to Sociology3None
View Description

Explores the systematic study of human society, social structures, and cultural dynamics. Emphasis is placed on social justice and community development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR101Foundations of Ethical Reasoning4None
View Description

Examines classical and contemporary ethical frameworks within a values-based context. Students apply these frameworks to contemporary professional dilemmas. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
HRM201Introduction to Human Resources4BUS101
View Description

Overview of the human resource function, including job analysis, staffing, performance management, and compensation. Students study the strategic role of HR in organizational success. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COM101Professional Communication3ENG101
View Description

Focuses on interpersonal communication, public speaking, and professional correspondence. Students learn to navigate conflict and build consensus in team settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PSY101General Psychology3None
View Description

Introduces the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Includes topics such as personality, motivation, and group dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MAT150Quantitative Reasoning3None
View Description

Applied mathematics for professional settings, focusing on data analysis, budgeting, and statistical literacy. Students gain confidence in data-driven decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
HRM301Employment Law and Ethics4HRM201
View Description

Analysis of the legal environment of HR, including equal opportunity, labor relations, and workplace safety. Emphasis on maintaining ethical compliance in diverse settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT305Organizational Behavior3BUS101
View Description

Exploration of individual and group behavior within organizations, including motivation, team effectiveness, and organizational culture. Focuses on servant leadership application. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS201World History and Cultural Context3None
View Description

Studies key historical developments and their impact on contemporary cultural values. Encourages critical awareness of the global environment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES200Research Methods3MAT150
View Description

Introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods appropriate for organizational assessment. Students learn to design research projects and interpret results. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Major / Core Requirements

Major and core requirements

General education | 18 credit hours

  • Faith-Based Human Resources core | 30 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Final Project Requirement

Final project requirement

Capstone Project

  • 4
  • RES200, HRM301
  • HRM405
  • Talent Development and Retention
  • 3
  • HRM201
  • HUM210
  • Philosophy of Service
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • BUS310
  • Strategic Volunteer Management
  • 3
  • MGT305
  • CAP490 — Capstone Project: Integrated project allowing students to apply cumulative knowledge to solve a real-world organizational challenge. Requires formal reporting and presentation of findings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HRM405 — Talent Development and Retention: Focuses on recruitment, onboarding, training, and employee retention strategies. Examines the importance of investing in human capital for mission sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM210 — Philosophy of Service: Explores the intersection of personal virtue and community service. Students analyze the role of the individual in promoting the common good. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS310 — Strategic Volunteer Management: Covers strategies for managing, supporting, and empowering volunteer workforces within nonprofit structures. Focuses on leadership development and stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS101 | Principles of Management | 4 | None
  • ENG101 | College Composition | 3 | None
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • CHR101 | Foundations of Ethical Reasoning | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • HRM201 | Introduction to Human Resources | 4 | BUS101
  • COM101 | Professional Communication | 3 | ENG101
  • PSY101 | General Psychology | 3 | None
  • MAT150 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • HRM301 | Employment Law and Ethics | 4 | HRM201
  • MGT305 | Organizational Behavior | 3 | BUS101
  • HIS201 | World History and Cultural Context | 3 | None
  • RES200 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT150
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Capstone Project | 4 | RES200, HRM301
  • HRM405 | Talent Development and Retention | 3 | HRM201
  • HUM210 | Philosophy of Service | 3 | CHR101
  • BUS310 | Strategic Volunteer Management | 3 | MGT305

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 60 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students must satisfy all core course requirements and the final Capstone Project with a passing grade. Beyond academic benchmarks, students are expected to engage in consistent community service and participation in spiritual formation activities, which are integral to the institution's commitment to developing graduates of high integrity and character.
  • Academic achievement must be paired with evidence of ongoing spiritual maturity and commitment to institutional values. Readiness for faith-informed service is assessed through the successful completion of the curriculum and a demonstrated commitment to ethical integrity in both classroom and service settings. Students are encouraged to reflect on their professional development as an extension of their personal vocation and long-term commitment to community impact.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Human Resources Assistant
  • Nonprofit Administrative Coordinator
  • Employee Relations Specialist
  • Volunteer Services Manager
  • Operations Support Associate
  • Benefits Administration Clerk
  • Community Outreach Liaison

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 Faith-Based Human Resources
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years