Associate of Arts in Theology (Specialization in Theological Education, Ministry)

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Theology

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, with a specialization in Theological Education and Ministry, provides a robust academic foundation in the study of religious traditions, historical theology, and the practical application of ministerial leadership. The curriculum is designed to foster critical inquiry into theological systems while developing the communicative and organizational skills necessary for effective service within diverse communal and educational settings. Students engage in rigorous academic analysis to bridge the gap between classical theological principles and contemporary social challenges. By integrating historical knowledge with modern ethical frameworks, the program cultivates an intellectual environment where students can pursue personal growth and professional development. This program creates a balanced academic trajectory that emphasizes intellectual depth, analytical clarity, and the stewardship of educational and ministerial resources. Through a combination of general education and specialized coursework, learners are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the internal health and external efficacy of their respective communities. The curriculum ensures that graduates possess the foundational knowledge and communicative proficiency required to engage in complex discourse with academic integrity and ethical sensitivity.

The Associate of Arts in Theology provides a rigorous foundational study in theological studies, human development, effective communication, ethics, community resources, and supportive ministry service practices. This curriculum is designed to equip students with the biblical knowledge and ministerial skills necessary to foster spiritual growth and facilitate community impact through informed, faithful, and compassionate service within a variety of institutional and ecclesiastical contexts.

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: Theological Integration Project

• 4
• All Core Courses
• CHR350
• Spiritual Formation and Character Development
• 3
• THE201
• HUM250
• Cultural Studies and Diversity
• 3
• None
• RES200
• Research Methods for Community Practice
• 3
• ENG101
• CAP400 — Capstone: Theological Integration Project: A project-based course where students synthesize their academic learning into a practical initiative serving a community or nonprofit entity. It demonstrates the student's capacity for ethical and professional stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR350 — Spiritual Formation and Character Development: Evaluation of personal and communal spiritual development practices. The course examines the relationship between deep reflection and effective public service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM250 — Cultural Studies and Diversity: Critical examination of cultural diversity, global perspectives, and social equity in the modern world. It highlights the importance of inclusivity in community outreach. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES200 — Research Methods for Community Practice: Fundamentals of identifying, analyzing, and reporting on organizational and community needs. Students develop qualitative and quantitative skills to support program success. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Composition | 3 | None
• THE101 | Foundations of Biblical Study | 4 | None
• HIS110 | World History and Cultural Context | 3 | None
• MIN101 | Principles of Servant Leadership | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THE201 | Systematic Theology | 4 | THE101
• SOC105 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• COM202 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | ENG101
• EDU210 | Principles of Instructional Design | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THE305 | Christian Ethics | 4 | THE201
• MIN310 | Educational Ministry and Community Engagement | 3 | EDU210
• MGT220 | Nonprofit Administrative Stewardship | 3 | None
• PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP400 | Capstone: Theological Integration Project | 4 | All Core Courses
• CHR350 | Spiritual Formation and Character Development | 3 | THE201
• HUM250 | Cultural Studies and Diversity | 3 | None
• RES200 | Research Methods for Community Practice | 3 | ENG101

Career Opportunities

• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Nonprofit Educational Program Manager
• Church Educational Administrator
• Ministry Operations Assistant
• Religious Education Specialist
• Chaplaincy Support Assistant
• Social Advocacy Liaison

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