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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Anthropology, Specialization in Community Development Cultural Awareness

Academic unitCollege of Arts and HumanitiesTotal credits120Estimated duration4 yearsSource documentBachelor_of_Arts_in_Faith_Based_Anthropology__Specialization_in_Community_Develo.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Anthropology, Specialization in Community Development Cultural Awareness

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Anthropology and Community Development core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Anthropology with a specialization in Community Development Cultural Awareness is designed to provide students with a robust academic foundation in the social sciences, specifically focusing on the intersection of cultural analysis and community-oriented service. Through rigorous engagement with anthropological theory and ethnographic research methods, students examine the dynamics of human social structures, cultural diversity, and the impact of globalization on local communities. This interdisciplinary approach invites students to evaluate the complexities of communal life through a framework of ethical responsibility, historical awareness, and stewardship, ensuring that academic study is matched by a commitment to the common good.

The curriculum integrates theoretical proficiency with practical application in community development. Students will analyze how cultural paradigms influence societal challenges, equipping them to propose sustainable, empathetic solutions for social progress. By fostering a deep understanding of human heritage and cross-cultural communication, the program empowers graduates to serve diverse populations with discernment, professional integrity, and an informed perspective on the transformative potential of ethical engagement in various community contexts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Anthropology, Specialization in Community Development Cultural Awareness combines a robust general education foundation with comprehensive study in anthropological theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support.

Florida's current standard establishes a minimum of 120 semester credits for a bachelor's degree and at least 30 general-education credits for a Bachelor of Arts. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
B.A. in Faith-Based Anthropology, Specialization in Community Development Cultural Awareness
Total program length
120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Four academic years
General education
36 credit hours
Professional application courses
15 credit hours
Capstone requirement
6 credit hours
Academic unit
College of Arts and Humanities
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze cultural systems and social behaviors through the application of core anthropological theories.
  • Evaluate the impacts of globalization on local community structures using qualitative research methods.
  • Design community development strategies that respect cultural diversity and promote social sustainability.
  • Demonstrate effective cross-cultural communication skills in diverse community engagement settings.
  • Integrate ethical reasoning and principles of stewardship into professional and community-based practices.
  • Communicate complex ethnographic findings clearly to diverse stakeholders within both academic and professional environments.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Admissions committees seek candidates who demonstrate an aptitude for social scientific inquiry, evidence of community involvement, and a commitment to the institution's mission of integrating academic excellence with ethical and spiritual formation. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project represents the culminating academic experience for the degree, requiring students to synthesize their anthropological and community development learning through a comprehensive, original project. The project scope involves a field-based study or a significant organizational development proposal that addresses a contemporary community challenge. Students must demonstrate competency in ethnographic research, report writing, and strategic planning, while explicitly connecting their work to principles of servant leadership and biblical stewardship. This 6-credit requirement serves as a bridge between academic mastery and post-graduate practice. Students must produce a final thesis and a formal presentation that articulates their findings, showcasing the application of their ethical and intellectual growth. The project necessitates that students reflect on their personal spiritual formation and professional ethics, demonstrating a capacity to act as responsible, faith-informed agents of change in their communities. Through this process, students integrate their disciplinary knowledge with their personal commitments to integrity and service.

Program Structure

Official program structure

Program Details

  • Total Credits: 120
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Degree Level: Bachelor

Semester-by-Semester Curriculum

Official course sequence

Year 1

Semester 1

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ANT101Foundations of Anthropology4None
View Description

An introduction to the major branches of anthropology, including cultural, linguistic, and biological aspects. This course explores human history and development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC101Sociology of Community4None
View Description

Examines the structure of groups, social institutions, and the dynamics of community life. Students identify the factors that promote healthy communal growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ENG101Academic Writing I4None
View Description

Focuses on the fundamentals of composition, rhetoric, and critical analysis. Students develop skills in writing for professional and academic audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC105Foundations of Social Identity and Group Dynamics4None
View Description

This course examines the psychological and sociological factors that shape individual identity and group affiliation within diverse social structures. Students analyze how collective values influence organizational membership and collaborative behavior. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ANT102Cultural Diversity and Globalism4ANT101
View Description

Analyzes the impact of global integration on local cultures and social identities. Topics include migration, economic change, and identity formation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COM101Intercultural Communication4None
View Description

Studies the barriers and bridges to effective communication between diverse cultural groups. Emphasizes empathetic listening and clarity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MAT150Statistical Methods for Social Science4None
View Description

An introduction to quantitative analysis, data collection, and statistical interpretation. Provides tools for evidence-based decision making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ENG102Academic Writing II4ENG101
View Description

Advances the student's ability to construct persuasive, evidence-based research papers. Emphasizes academic integrity and citation standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ANT201Ethnographic Research Methods4ANT102
View Description

Provides training in field research, participant observation, and interviewing techniques. Focuses on ethical engagement with informants. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS201Nonprofit Organizational Management4None
View Description

Covers the administrative and operational aspects of managing community-focused, nonprofit entities. Explores budgeting, volunteer management, and mission alignment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR205Ethics and Moral Reasoning4MIN101
View Description

Examines ethical theories and their application to modern societal issues through a theological lens. Encourages the development of professional integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS210World History and Cultural Heritage4None
View Description

Reviews major historical developments influencing modern cultural systems. Provides context for current community challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ANT250Applied Anthropology4ANT201
View Description

Applies anthropological concepts to solving real-world problems in public health, education, and social policy. Highlights the role of cultural sensitivity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC220Urban Development and Social Change4SOC101
View Description

Investigates the factors driving change in urban and rural settings. Examines resource allocation and community empowerment models. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT210Leadership and Stewardship4None
View Description

Studies the principles of servant leadership and the responsible management of organizational resources. Emphasizes influence and accountability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PSY101Introduction to Psychology4None
View Description

Explores human cognition, emotion, and behavior within a social context. Provides insight into individual and group psychology. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ANT301Community Economic Development4SOC220
View Description

Explores strategies for fostering economic stability in marginalized communities. Focuses on asset-based community development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ANT325Sociocultural Systems and Belief Structures4ANT101
View Description

This course explores the evolution of cultural belief systems and their influence on societal norms, rituals, and organizational behaviors. Students apply anthropological frameworks to understand how shared values dictate community governance and social cohesion. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

EDU305Program Design and Assessment4None
View Description

Teaches the fundamentals of designing, implementing, and evaluating community development programs. Focuses on measurable outcomes and assessment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS350History of Nonprofits and Charity4None
View Description

Reviews the historical development of philanthropic and faith-based community service institutions. Provides context for contemporary sector trends. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ANT350Ethnographic Field Practicum4ANT201
View Description

Students participate in a supervised field project to apply research methods in a real-world community setting. Requires reflective reporting on methodology. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC310Social Stratification and Policy4SOC101
View Description

Analyzes systems of social inequality and their impact on community well-being. Examines the role of public policy in promoting justice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS320Grant Writing and Fundraising4BUS201
View Description

Covers the technical skills required to secure funding for non-profit initiatives. Includes proposal development and donor relationship management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HUM350Human Rights and Social Justice4CHR205
View Description

Evaluates global human rights frameworks and the ethical obligation to address injustices. Discusses the role of community advocacy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ANT401Advanced Anthropological Theory3ANT301
View Description

Deep engagement with critical social theories and their modern application. Students refine their analytical frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC405Comparative Community Systems3SOC310
View Description

A comparative study of diverse community models across the globe. Focuses on the adaptation of services to different cultural contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES400Advanced Research Methods3ANT350
View Description

Synthesizes quantitative and qualitative research design for senior-level academic projects. Prepares students for capstone completion. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS410Strategic Planning in Nonprofits3BUS320
View Description

Focuses on long-term goal setting, mission fulfillment, and organizational sustainability. Emphasizes strategic alignment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 8

15 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
CAP490Senior Capstone Project6RES400
View Description

The culminating experience where students complete a significant field project, thesis, or intervention design. Demonstrates academic, ethical, and spiritual integration. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ANT420Professionalism and Ethics in the Field3CHR205
View Description

Addresses professional standards, legal compliance, and the moral responsibilities of community practitioners. Prepares students for entry into the field. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC450Sociology of Family and Community3SOC101
View Description

Explores the interplay between individual, family units, and broader community networks. Emphasizes the significance of social stability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COM410Advocacy and Public Communication3COM101
View Description

Refines the ability to communicate mission-driven objectives to the public, donors, and stakeholders. Emphasizes clear, values-based messaging. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Major / Core Requirements

Major and core requirements

General education | 36 credit hours

  • Faith-Based Anthropology and Community Development core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours

Final Project Requirement

Final project requirement

Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours

  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ANT101 | Foundations of Anthropology | 4 | None
  • SOC101 | Sociology of Community | 4 | None
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing I | 4 | None
  • SOC105 | Foundations of Social Identity and Group Dynamics | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ANT102 | Cultural Diversity and Globalism | 4 | ANT101
  • COM101 | Intercultural Communication | 4 | None
  • MAT150 | Statistical Methods for Social Science | 4 | None
  • ENG102 | Academic Writing II | 4 | ENG101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ANT201 | Ethnographic Research Methods | 4 | ANT102
  • BUS201 | Nonprofit Organizational Management | 4 | None
  • CHR205 | Ethics and Moral Reasoning | 4 | MIN101
  • HIS210 | World History and Cultural Heritage | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ANT250 | Applied Anthropology | 4 | ANT201
  • SOC220 | Urban Development and Social Change | 4 | SOC101
  • MGT210 | Leadership and Stewardship | 4 | None
  • PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ANT301 | Community Economic Development | 4 | SOC220
  • ANT325 | Sociocultural Systems and Belief Structures | 4 | ANT101
  • EDU305 | Program Design and Assessment | 4 | None
  • HIS350 | History of Nonprofits and Charity | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ANT350 | Ethnographic Field Practicum | 4 | ANT201
  • SOC310 | Social Stratification and Policy | 4 | SOC101
  • BUS320 | Grant Writing and Fundraising | 4 | BUS201
  • HUM350 | Human Rights and Social Justice | 4 | CHR205
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ANT401 | Advanced Anthropological Theory | 3 | ANT301
  • SOC405 | Comparative Community Systems | 3 | SOC310
  • RES400 | Advanced Research Methods | 3 | ANT350
  • BUS410 | Strategic Planning in Nonprofits | 3 | BUS320
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 6 | RES400
  • ANT420 | Professionalism and Ethics in the Field | 3 | CHR205
  • SOC450 | Sociology of Family and Community | 3 | SOC101
  • COM410 | Advocacy and Public Communication | 3 | COM101
  • CAP490Senior Capstone Project6 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. In addition to academic coursework, students must complete their Senior Capstone Project with a passing grade to demonstrate their readiness for professional service. Academic achievement is viewed as one dimension of the degree; therefore, students must also fulfill requirements for spiritual formation and chapel attendance to ensure holistic development.
  • Students are expected to reflect the institution’s values through a commitment to community service and active participation in the campus community. This dual focus ensures that graduates leave not only with intellectual mastery but also with the character, integrity, and ethical fortitude required for long-term service. Success is defined by the alignment of professional practice with a deep-seated commitment to faith-informed stewardship and moral courage.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Community Development Coordinator
  • Nonprofit Program Manager
  • Cross-Cultural Relations Liaison
  • International Relief Program Specialist
  • Social Advocacy Consultant
  • Missionary or Ministry Outreach Coordinator
  • Community Engagement Representative

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

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 | B.A. in Faith-Based Anthropology, Specialization in Community Development Cultural Awareness
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years