Associate of Arts in Theology, Ethics (Specialization in Leadership)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Theology, Ethics (Specialization in Leadership)

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Theological and biblical studies core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Theology and Ethics, with a specialization in Leadership, provides a robust academic foundation in the intersection of moral philosophy, organizational management, and historical theological inquiry. This program is designed for students seeking to integrate rigorous intellectual study with a commitment to service-oriented leadership and ethical decision-making. Students will explore the historical, social, and philosophical frameworks that inform contemporary leadership within community-focused environments.

Through a curriculum grounded in critical thinking and analytical research, learners evaluate diverse perspectives and apply ethical principles to complex real-world challenges. By focusing on organizational stewardship and servant leadership, the program cultivates the professional acumen necessary to facilitate positive change within various social, academic, and non-profit contexts.

The Associate of Arts in Theology, Ethics (Specialization in Leadership) provides a foundational study in theology, ethics, and leadership principles. Students engage with human development, communication strategies, and ethical frameworks designed to inform community resources and supportive service practices within faith-based contexts. This curriculum equips learners with the essential knowledge base and practical skills necessary to apply theological insights to organizational leadership and service-oriented vocations.

Program Details

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

General education | 18 credit hours

• Theological and biblical studies core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours

Capstone Project in Leadership and Ethics

• 4
• RES240
• MIN250
• Principles of Community Engagement
• 3
• None
• BUS260
• Professional Ethics and Governance
• 3
• THE105
• HUM270
• Worldview and Cultural Integration
• 3
• None
• CAP299 — Capstone Project in Leadership and Ethics: This course provides a venue for students to complete their final academic project, integrating leadership theory and ethical research. Students design a project addressing a community need, demonstrating synthesized learning and professional readiness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN250 — Principles of Community Engagement: This course analyzes effective strategies for engaging and empowering local communities. Students evaluate models of outreach that foster sustainable social well-being and collaboration. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS260 — Professional Ethics and Governance: This course explores the legal and ethical requirements for professional and organizational governance. Students assess the impact of ethical policy on transparency and accountability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM270 — Worldview and Cultural Integration: This course examines how diverse worldviews influence social participation and cross-cultural leadership. Students develop competence in navigating complex, pluralistic environments with respect and integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Composition I | 3 | None
• THE105 | Foundations of Ethical Thought | 3 | None
• HIS110 | History of Western Social Institutions | 3 | None
• COM120 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT201 | Principles of Organizational Leadership | 4 | None
• THE210 | Biblical Theology of Stewardship | 3 | THE105
• SOC205 | Sociology of Communities | 3 | None
• MAT150 | Quantitative Reasoning for Social Sciences | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BUS220 | Nonprofit Resource Management | 4 | MGT201
• CHR230 | Spiritual Formation and Character Development | 3 | None
• PSY215 | Foundations of Human Development | 3 | None
• RES240 | Research Methods in Ethics | 3 | ENG101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP299 | Capstone Project in Leadership and Ethics | 4 | RES240
• MIN250 | Principles of Community Engagement | 3 | None
• BUS260 | Professional Ethics and Governance | 3 | THE105
• HUM270 | Worldview and Cultural Integration | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Nonprofit Program Assistant
• Church Administrative Associate
• Volunteer Services Manager
• Youth Ministry Lead
• Ethical Compliance Associate
• Organizational Development Specialist

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 Theology, Ethics (Specialization in Leadership)
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years