Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Sociology (Specialization in Social Change, Policy Reform)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Sociology

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Sociology core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Sociology with a specialization in Social Change and Policy Reform provides a rigorous academic foundation in the study of social structures, human interaction, and systemic institutional change. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students examine the intersection of sociological theory and ethical leadership, exploring how social dynamics shape communities and institutional policies. The curriculum is designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical research skills, and a profound sense of civic responsibility, grounded in the values of stewardship and community engagement. By integrating theoretical perspectives with practical applications, this program prepares students to navigate the complexities of contemporary societal challenges while maintaining an unwavering commitment to integrity and servant leadership. The program encourages students to analyze the forces of social change through both quantitative and qualitative lenses, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of human behavior within diverse societal contexts.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Sociology provides students with a foundational study of societal structures, human development, and the dynamics of social change through the lens of faith-based principles. This program integrates coursework in effective communication, ethical decision-making, and the critical analysis of community resources, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of supportive service practices, policy reform, and the mechanisms of social systems.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

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

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 4 | None
• ENG101 | Academic Composition | 3 | None
• THE101 | Foundations of Ethical Reasoning | 3 | None
• MAT150 | Introduction to Social Statistics | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC201 | Social Problems and Policy Reform | 4 | SOC101
• COM101 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• HIS205 | History of Social Reform Movements | 3 | None
• RES200 | Social Research Methods | 4 | SOC101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC305 | Urban Sociology and Community Development | 4 | SOC201
• MGT210 | Nonprofit Organizational Management | 4 | None
• COU201 | Community Advocacy and Outreach | 3 | None
• BUS120 | Professional Ethics and Stewardship | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP299 | Sociological Capstone Project | 4 | RES200, SOC305
• SOC310 | Globalization and Social Change | 3 | SOC201
• EDU250 | Civic Leadership and Engagement | 3 | None
• SOC320 | Sociology of the Family and Community | 3 | SOC101

Career Opportunities

• Nonprofit Program Coordinator
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Policy Research Assistant
• Social Service Case Manager
• Grant Writing Assistant
• Community Advocacy Representative
• Human Services 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 Sociology
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years