Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Women’s Studies (Specialization in Gender Equality, Empowerment)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Women’s Studies

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Women’s Studies core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Women’s Studies with a specialization in Gender Equality and Empowerment provides a comprehensive foundation for students seeking to understand the socio-historical, ethical, and practical dimensions of women's leadership. Through a multidisciplinary lens, the program explores the evolving roles of women in society, drawing upon sociological, historical, and humanities-based research to foster critical perspectives on equity and justice. Students examine the intersections of systemic challenges and individual agency, preparing for meaningful contributions in diverse public and private sectors.

The curriculum is intentionally structured to integrate rigorous academic inquiry with a commitment to servant leadership and ethical stewardship. By analyzing diverse cultural and historical contexts, learners are challenged to develop compassionate, informed, and reflective approaches to advocacy and social development. The program emphasizes the capacity for intellectual growth alongside personal character development, ensuring that graduates are prepared to address complex challenges with integrity, sound reasoning, and a clear vision for community-oriented service.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Women’s Studies provides a foundational academic exploration into the theological, historical, and sociological perspectives of women within faith-based contexts. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that integrates principles of human development, effective communication, and ethical leadership, while examining community resources and supportive service practices designed to foster gender equality and empowerment. This program seeks to prepare individuals with the essential knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for informed engagement and service within diverse community settings.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

• Faith-Based Women’s Studies core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 4 | None
• SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 4 | None
• HIS150 | Historical Perspectives on Women | 4 | None
• THE101 | Foundation of Ethical Leadership | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PSY120 | Human Development Across the Lifespan | 4 | None
• COM210 | Interpersonal Communication | 4 | None
• MAT201 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
• ANT205 | Comparative Cultural Systems | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC305 | Gender and Social Justice | 4 | SOC101
• BUS310 | Principles of Nonprofit Management | 4 | None
• SOC320 | Theories of Social Equity | 3 | THE101
• RES301 | Social Research Methods | 3 | MAT201
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP400 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES301
• COU350 | Foundations of Counseling and Support | 3 | PSY120
• MGT415 | Community Advocacy and Outreach | 3 | BUS310
• EDU380 | Empowerment Education Strategies | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

• Nonprofit Program Coordinator
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Advocacy Liaison for Women’s Initiatives
• Social Services Caseworker Assistant
• Humanitarian Organization Staff Member
• Church-based Ministry Coordinator
• Educational Policy Assistant

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 Women’s Studies
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years