← Programs CatalogAuthoritative HBIU program data

degree · Associate · Persisted candidate preview

Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Iconic Leadership (Specialization in Leadership, Ministry)

Academic unitCollege of LeadershipTotal credits60Estimated duration2 yearsSource documentAssociate_of_Arts_in_Faith_Based_Iconic_Leadership__Specialization_in_Leadership.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Iconic Leadership

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Iconic Leadership core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Iconic Leadership is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to cultivate foundational competencies in organizational management and ministry service. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum, students explore the theoretical frameworks of leadership, interpersonal communication, and organizational ethics. The program balances academic rigor with the development of moral character, emphasizing the application of servant leadership principles in diverse professional environments.

Students engage in a curriculum that bridges the gap between secular leadership theory and ethical institutional practice. By integrating humanities, social sciences, and management disciplines, the program equips individuals with the critical thinking skills necessary to steward resources effectively and lead with integrity. This degree serves as a foundational credential for those committed to professional development within community-oriented and service-driven organizations.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Iconic Leadership provides a comprehensive foundational study in leadership principles, ministry development, human development, and effective communication. Students engage in rigorous coursework centered on ethics, community resource management, and supportive service practices, preparing them to integrate faith-based values into various organizational and ministry contexts.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.A. in Faith-Based Iconic Leadership
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 Leadership
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze foundational leadership theories and their application in diverse organizational settings.
  • Evaluate ethical decision-making frameworks within the context of Christian organizational stewardship.
  • Communicate effectively across diverse interpersonal and professional organizational contexts.
  • Develop strategic approaches to conflict resolution and community engagement.
  • Integrate principles of spiritual formation and professional integrity into daily practice.
  • Design effective organizational development plans that align with mission-driven objectives.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent such as a GED. Admissions processes prioritize individuals who demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning, ethical conduct, and an interest in community-centered service. Prospective students are required to submit official transcripts and a personal statement outlining their professional aspirations and commitment to the mission of HBI University. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Iconic Leadership, representing the synthesis of all coursework completed throughout the program. Students are tasked with designing a comprehensive leadership proposal that addresses a specific operational challenge within a simulated or real-world nonprofit context. This project requires students to conduct research, apply management principles, and articulate a strategy that reflects the values of servant leadership, biblical stewardship, and ethical organizational behavior. The project is a 4-credit intensive course that requires the production of a formal strategy document and a reflective portfolio. Through this process, students must demonstrate not only their mastery of leadership and communication competencies but also their growth in faith-informed character. The Capstone requires students to articulate how their proposed solutions foster community well-being and adhere to the ethical standards essential for the stewardship of resources in a service-oriented mission.

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

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ENG101Academic Composition3None
View Description

Focuses on developing critical writing skills through structured analysis of academic texts. Emphasizes clarity, logical organization, and professional rhetoric. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MIN105Foundations of Servant Leadership3None
View Description

Explores the philosophical and practical foundations of leading through service. Examines historical and contemporary models of management and mentorship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COM110Interpersonal Communication3None
View Description

Analyzes the dynamics of human interaction and effective communication strategies. Provides tools for navigating professional discourse in community settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS120Historical Context of Social Institutions3None
View Description

Surveys the development of social, educational, and service institutions. Analyzes the impact of these institutions on societal development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
BUS201Principles of Organizational Management3None
View Description

Introduces the core functions of management, including planning, organizing, and directing resources. Emphasizes operational efficiency and sustainable practices. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC210Sociology of Community Engagement3None
View Description

Examines the structures of local communities and the mechanics of civic participation. Focuses on asset-based community development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

THE220Biblical Foundations of Stewardship3None
View Description

Studies the concepts of resource management, accountability, and the ethical responsibility of stewards. Applies these values to institutional growth and maintenance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MAT205Applied Statistics for Decision Making3None
View Description

Provides an overview of statistical analysis tools for evaluating program performance and organizational data. Focuses on practical application of quantitative data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
MGT305Conflict Resolution and Negotiation4COM110
View Description

Explores strategies for managing disagreements and fostering unity in group settings. Utilizes case studies to evaluate effective communication in high-stakes environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR310Ethics in Professional Practice4THE220
View Description

Investigates moral dilemmas faced by leaders and explores ethical decision-making frameworks. Emphasizes integrity and transparency in nonprofit administration. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS320Resource Development and Grant Writing4BUS201
View Description

Focuses on sustainable fundraising and proposal development for charitable initiatives. Emphasizes the relationship between funding goals and institutional mission. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

EDU330Program Development and Evaluation4SOC210
View Description

Teaches the systematic process of designing and assessing programmatic initiatives. Focuses on alignment between community needs and organizational goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
PSY405Leadership and Human Motivation3None
View Description

Examines psychological theories regarding motivation, team cohesion, and individual professional growth. Integrates findings into leadership practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES415Research Methodologies in Social Service3MAT205
View Description

Introduces qualitative and quantitative research methods relevant to community service analysis. Prepares students for evidence-based decision making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CAP490Leadership Capstone Project4Completion of 50 credits
View Description

Serves as the final synthesis of the program, requiring students to propose a comprehensive organizational improvement project. Integrates ethical reasoning, strategic management, and faith-informed character reflection. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MIN450Spiritual Formation and Vocational Service3None
View Description

Focuses on the integration of faith, spiritual growth, and professional calling. Encourages students to cultivate a sustainable service mindset. 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 Iconic Leadership 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 | Academic Composition | 3 | None
  • MIN105 | Foundations of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
  • COM110 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • HIS120 | Historical Context of Social Institutions | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS201 | Principles of Organizational Management | 3 | None
  • SOC210 | Sociology of Community Engagement | 3 | None
  • THE220 | Biblical Foundations of Stewardship | 3 | None
  • MAT205 | Applied Statistics for Decision Making | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MGT305 | Conflict Resolution and Negotiation | 4 | COM110
  • CHR310 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 4 | THE220
  • BUS320 | Resource Development and Grant Writing | 4 | BUS201
  • EDU330 | Program Development and Evaluation | 4 | SOC210
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY405 | Leadership and Human Motivation | 3 | None
  • RES415 | Research Methodologies in Social Service | 3 | MAT205
  • CAP490 | Leadership Capstone Project | 4 | Completion of 50 credits
  • MIN450 | Spiritual Formation and Vocational Service | 3 | None
  • CAP490Leadership Capstone Project4 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To graduate with an Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Iconic Leadership, students must successfully complete the full 60-credit curriculum with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. In addition to academic coursework, students must demonstrate satisfactory completion of the Capstone Project, which serves as evidence of both intellectual rigor and personal development. This degree program emphasizes the harmony of scholarship and character; therefore, graduates are expected to exhibit high standards of personal integrity throughout their academic journey.
  • Beyond academic attainment, students are expected to engage in consistent spiritual formation and community service activities. This requirement reflects HBI University's commitment to nurturing leaders who are as committed to ethical excellence and service as they are to intellectual achievement. Graduation confirms that the candidate possesses the foundational skills, ethical grounding, and vocational readiness required to contribute effectively to the mission-driven sectors of society.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Nonprofit Program Coordinator
  • Community Outreach Assistant
  • Church Administrative Associate
  • Volunteer Management Specialist
  • Operations Assistant in Faith-Based Nonprofits
  • Mission-Driven Project Administrator
  • Educational Assistant

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 Iconic Leadership
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years