Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Astronomy and Space Education Public Outreach is a multidisciplinary degree program designed to bridge the rigorous study of astrophysical sciences with the essential communication strategies required for effective public engagement. Students explore the intersection of cosmic exploration and ethical stewardship, examining how scientific literacy serves as a vehicle for community education and wonder. The program emphasizes the integration of empirical discovery with a foundational worldview that affirms the dignity of creation and the responsibilities of human inquiry.

Throughout the curriculum, learners engage in astronomical observation, planetary science, and the pedagogical methods necessary to translate complex concepts for diverse public audiences. By combining analytical coursework with a commitment to servant leadership and ethical responsibility, this program equips students to lead educational initiatives within museums, observatories, and nonprofit organizations. The program fosters a holistic approach, ensuring that intellectual development is perpetually balanced with a dedication to the common good.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach combines a robust general education foundation with comprehensive study in the theory of faith-based astronomy, 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 Details

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

General education | 36 credit hours

• Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours

Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours

• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AST101 | Foundations of Astronomy | 4 | None
• ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
• MIN101 | Principles of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
• MAT110 | College Algebra for Science | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AST102 | Space Exploration History | 3 | AST101
• COM120 | Public Speaking for Educators | 3 | ENG101
• SOC150 | Community Engagement and Outreach | 3 | None
• SOC105 | Foundations of Cultural Perspectives | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AST201 | Stellar Evolution and Cosmology | 4 | AST101
• EDU210 | Pedagogical Theory for Nonprofits | 3 | None
• RES200 | Scientific Research Methods | 3 | MAT110
• BUS220 | Nonprofit Resource Management | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AST205 | Planetary Science and Astrobiology | 3 | AST101
• COM240 | Multimedia Outreach Tools | 3 | COM120
• PSY230 | Psychology of Learning and Discovery | 3 | None
• THE250 | Ethics in Science and Stewardship | 3 | CHR105
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AST301 | Observational Astronomy Workshop | 4 | AST201
• EDU315 | Curriculum Design for Public Literacy | 3 | EDU210
• MGT320 | Organizational Leadership and Culture | 3 | MIN101
• HIS330 | History of Science and Public Perception | 3 | CHR105
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AST350 | Cosmic Origins and Philosophy | 3 | AST201
• COM360 | Technical Writing for Public Outreach | 3 | ENG101
• SOC370 | Social Justice and Equitable Science | 3 | SOC150
• BUS380 | Grant Writing and Fundraising | 3 | BUS220
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AST401 | Current Research in Space Science | 3 | AST301
• EDU410 | Internship in Outreach Settings | 4 | EDU315
• MGT420 | Nonprofit Strategic Planning | 3 | MGT320
• HUM430 | Cultural Impact of Science | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | EDU410, CAP permission
• AST450 | Advanced Astrophysical Discourse | 3 | AST401
• MGT460 | Professional Ethics and Vocational Development | 3 | THE250
• BUS470 | Professional Ethics and Law | 3 | MGT320

Career Opportunities

• Science Museum Educator
• Planetarium Outreach Coordinator
• Nonprofit Educational Program Director
• Community Science Communication Specialist
• Faith-Based Youth Science Ministry Lead
• Public Observatory Educational Consultant
• Science Literacy 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 | B.A. in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years