Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Architecture

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Architecture

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Architecture core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Architecture provides a rigorous academic foundation in the principles of design, spatial theory, and structural ethics. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that bridges historical architectural precedents with contemporary sustainable practices, emphasizing the social and moral responsibility inherent in shaping the built environment. Through a synthesis of aesthetic inquiry and technical proficiency, the program fosters a design philosophy centered on human dignity, environmental stewardship, and community enrichment.

By integrating interdisciplinary studies in humanities and social sciences, the program challenges students to examine how physical spaces influence human interaction and spiritual reflection. Students develop critical skills in drafting, computer-aided design, and site analysis, all while reflecting on the role of architecture as a service to society. This holistic approach ensures that graduates possess the practical expertise and ethical clarity necessary to navigate complex design challenges in diverse global contexts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Architecture combines foundational general education with a comprehensive study in architectural theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support within sacred and public spaces.

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 Details

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

General education | 36 credit hours

• Faith-Based Architecture core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours

Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ARC101 | Foundations of Design | 4 | None
• ENG101 | Academic Writing | 3 | None
• HIS105 | World History I | 3 | None
• HUM110 | Introduction to Ethics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ARC102 | Architectural Drafting | 4 | ARC101
• MAT120 | College Algebra | 3 | None
• SOC101 | Principles of Sociology | 3 | None
• COM105 | Public Speaking | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ARC201 | Architectural History I | 3 | ARC101
• ARC210 | Digital Design Methods | 4 | ARC102
• BIO101 | Environmental Science | 3 | None
• PHI201 | Applied Ethics and Professional Responsibility | 3 | HUM110
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ARC202 | Architectural History II | 3 | ARC201
• ARC220 | Materials and Methods | 4 | ARC210
• BUS205 | Nonprofit Management | 3 | None
• PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ARC301 | Sustainable Design | 4 | ARC220
• ARC315 | Community-Based Design | 3 | SOC101
• RES300 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT120
• MIN305 | Servant Leadership | 3 | THE201
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ARC302 | Urban Planning Principles | 3 | ARC301
• ARC350 | Structural Systems | 4 | ARC301
• MGT310 | Project Management | 3 | BUS205
• SOC320 | Human Development and Civic Engagement | 3 | THE201
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ARC401 | Advanced Design Studio | 4 | ARC350
• ARC420 | Professional Practice | 3 | MGT310
• ARC440 | Preservation and Renovation | 3 | ARC302
• EDU305 | Service Learning | 3 | MIN305
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | ARC401
• ARC450 | Building Systems Integration | 3 | ARC401
• ARC460 | Social Justice in Design | 3 | ARC315
• HUM480 | Senior Seminar | 3 | CHR320

Career Opportunities

• Architectural Design Associate
• Urban Planning Consultant
• Nonprofit Facilities Coordinator
• Sustainable Development Researcher
• Community Development Specialist
• Historical Preservation Consultant
• Project Coordinator for Social Housing Projects

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 Architecture
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years