Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Marine Biology (Specialization in Ocean Conservation)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Marine Biology

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Marine Biology core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Marine Biology with a specialization in Ocean Conservation provides a foundational exploration of aquatic ecosystems, biological principles, and environmental stewardship. Through an integrated curriculum, students examine the intricate relationships within marine environments, balancing scientific rigor with a commitment to responsible, ethical management of natural resources. The program fosters a deep appreciation for the natural world, grounded in a philosophy of service and environmental ethics. By combining biological sciences with foundational humanities, students develop the analytical and practical skills necessary to address contemporary conservation challenges. The curriculum emphasizes the intersection of scientific observation and compassionate action, encouraging graduates to view the preservation of marine life as a significant responsibility. Students gain both theoretical knowledge and field-relevant insights, ensuring they are prepared to contribute effectively to conservation initiatives within diverse community contexts.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Marine Biology program provides a rigorous foundational study in marine science, integrating empirical research with theological perspectives on stewardship and environmental ethics. Students engage in coursework covering ecological principles, marine biology, and oceanography, complemented by studies in communication, ethics, and community-oriented conservation practices. This curriculum equips students with the scientific literacy and conceptual framework necessary to address complex marine issues through a lens of faith-based supportive service and intentional environmental advocacy.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

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

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BIO 101 | Principles of Marine Biology | 4 | None
• ENG 101 | Academic Writing and Inquiry | 3 | None
• ENV 101 | Environmental Ethics and Global Sustainability | 3 | None
• MAT 110 | Quantitative Reasoning for Science | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BIO 150 | Oceanography and Ecosystems | 4 | BIO 101
• SOC 120 | Community and Social Responsibility | 3 | None
• COM 150 | Environmental Communication | 3 | ENG 101
• HIS 200 | History of Conservation Movements | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BIO 210 | Marine Biodiversity and Conservation | 4 | BIO 150
• BUS 220 | Nonprofit Resource Management | 3 | None
• RES 200 | Applied Research Methods | 3 | MAT 110
• MIN 210 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | THE 101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP 290 | Conservation Capstone Project | 4 | RES 200, BIO 210
• BIO 250 | Field Applications in Oceanography | 3 | BIO 150
• PSY 230 | Environmental Psychology | 3 | None
• CHR 250 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 3 | THE 101

Career Opportunities

• Aquarium Conservation Specialist
• Marine Education Coordinator
• Environmental Non-Profit Program Assistant
• Community Outreach Liaison for Aquatic Centers
• Faith-Based Environmental Stewardship Coordinator
• Science Communication Assistant
• Coastal Resource Management Technician

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 Marine Biology
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years