Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Music Composition (Specialization in Music Therapy)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Music Composition

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Music Composition core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Music Composition with a specialization in Music Therapy is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to bridge the gap between creative musical expression and human wellness. Students explore the structural elements of music theory and composition while developing an understanding of the psychological and social factors that influence emotional and cognitive well-being. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with the technical and theoretical foundations necessary to serve in community-based environments.

Throughout the program, students examine the intersection of musical proficiency and ethical stewardship. The curriculum emphasizes the development of technical musical skills alongside a commitment to serving others with compassion and integrity. By integrating the study of behavioral sciences with musical arts, graduates are prepared to apply their knowledge in diverse organizational settings focused on holistic care and community development.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Music Composition (Specialization in Music Therapy) provides comprehensive foundational study in musical composition, human development, communication, ethics, community resources, and supportive service practices. This program is designed to equip students with a robust interdisciplinary understanding of how music functions within supportive and faith-centered environments, fostering the integration of creative expression with professional care principles.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

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

Capstone Project

• 4
• Completion of all core coursework
• MUS 250
• Music in Therapeutic Settings
• 3
• PSY 210
• MGT 210
• Nonprofit Administration
• 3
• None
• HUM 250
• Global Perspectives on Culture and Art
• 3
• None
• CAP 299 — Capstone Project: The capstone provides a comprehensive review of program learning outcomes through a practical project. Students demonstrate their skills in composition and service by creating a community program. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 250 — Music in Therapeutic Settings: This course investigates the psychological and physiological influences of music on individuals and groups. It provides a foundational understanding of how music can enhance quality of life in community contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT 210 — Nonprofit Administration: Students examine the foundational aspects of nonprofit management including operations and resource stewardship. The course covers governance and administrative ethics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM 250 — Global Perspectives on Culture and Art: This course offers an overview of the intersection of arts and culture in global society. It encourages students to think critically about how artistic expression facilitates social connection. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 101 | Music Theory I | 4 | None
• ENG 101 | English Composition I | 3 | None
• PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• MIN 105 | Introduction to Servant Leadership | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 102 | Music Theory II | 4 | MUS 101
• SOC 120 | Sociology of Community | 3 | None
• PSY 210 | Human Development | 3 | PSY 101
• PHI 110 | Principles of Ethical Reasoning | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 201 | Music Composition and Arrangement | 4 | MUS 102
• COU 220 | Introduction to Helping Professions | 3 | PSY 101
• MAT 150 | Mathematics for Social Sciences | 3 | None
• COM 205 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP 299 | Capstone Project | 4 | Completion of all core coursework
• MUS 250 | Music in Therapeutic Settings | 3 | PSY 210
• MGT 210 | Nonprofit Administration | 3 | None
• HUM 250 | Global Perspectives on Culture and Art | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

• Community Worship Coordinator
• Nonprofit Arts Program Assistant
• Music Ministry Associate
• Recreational Music Facilitator
• Social Service Administrative Aide
• Youth Ministry Musical Director
• Mission-Based Outreach Coordinator

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 Music Composition
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years