Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Journalism (Specialization in Investigative Reporting, Communications)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Journalism

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Journalism core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Journalism provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles of media production, investigative inquiry, and ethical communication. Students engage with the evolving landscape of digital media through a lens of professional integrity and social responsibility. The curriculum emphasizes the technical skills necessary for modern reporting while cultivating a deep understanding of the stewardship role that journalists play in informing the public and fostering community transparency.

Throughout the program, students examine the intersection of media influence and civic participation. By integrating investigative methodology with communications theory, learners are equipped to navigate complex societal narratives. This Associate degree serves as a rigorous academic gateway for individuals seeking to apply professional media standards to the service of their communities, ensuring that communication remains rooted in virtue and historical accuracy.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Journalism provides students with a foundational study in journalistic principles, human development, effective communication strategies, and media ethics. The curriculum integrates research methodologies and community resource analysis with the practical application of supportive service practices, preparing individuals to engage in investigative reporting and media production through a biblically informed worldview.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

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

Capstone: Investigative Journalism Project

• 4
• COM220
• COM250
• Digital Media Ethics
• 3
• COM105
• COM260
• Multimedia Storytelling
• 3
• COM210
• BUS240
• Public Relations and Advocacy
• 3
• BUS120
• CAP299 — Capstone: Investigative Journalism Project: The capstone project involves the independent production of an investigative report centered on a contemporary social issue. Students integrate ethical inquiry, rigorous research, and media proficiency to produce a final, high-impact publication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM250 — Digital Media Ethics: An analysis of the moral challenges posed by digital platforms, social media, and rapid information sharing. Students develop a personal code of conduct for digital professionals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM260 — Multimedia Storytelling: A technical course in visual and audio storytelling techniques for digital media. Students create narratives that combine text, audio, and imagery. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS240 — Public Relations and Advocacy: This course covers the principles of professional public relations as applied to community-based and mission-driven advocacy. Students learn how to articulate organizational goals effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | College Composition I | 3 | None
• COM105 | Introduction to Media Studies | 3 | None
• HIS110 | World History and Culture | 3 | None
• THE101 | Foundations of Ethical Inquiry | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG102 | College Composition II | 3 | ENG101
• COM210 | Journalistic Writing and Reporting | 4 | ENG101
• SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• BUS120 | Nonprofit Organizational Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM220 | Investigative Reporting Methodology | 4 | COM210
• RES200 | Information Literacy and Research | 3 | None
• MAT201 | Introduction to Statistics | 3 | None
• MIN250 | Servant Leadership and Stewardship | 3 | THE101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP299 | Capstone: Investigative Journalism Project | 4 | COM220
• COM250 | Digital Media Ethics | 3 | COM105
• COM260 | Multimedia Storytelling | 3 | COM210
• BUS240 | Public Relations and Advocacy | 3 | BUS120

Career Opportunities

• Nonprofit Communications Coordinator
• Digital Content Producer
• Community Engagement Specialist
• Faith-Based Media Researcher
• Public Relations Assistant
• Investigative Content Creator
• Editorial 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 Journalism
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years