Program Overview
Official program overview
Program Overview
Degree abbreviation
B.A. in Faith-Based Broadcast Journalism
Total program length
120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Four academic years
General education
36 credit hours
Faith-Based Broadcast Journalism core
63 credit hours
Professional application courses
15 credit hours
Capstone requirement
6 credit hours
The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Broadcast Journalism is a rigorous undergraduate program designed to equip students with the technical proficiency and ethical foundation required for contemporary media production. By integrating advanced principles of journalism with a robust framework of servant leadership and ethical stewardship, the curriculum addresses the complexities of global communication. Students engage in the study of media production, digital storytelling, and journalistic integrity within an environment that values character development and social responsibility. The program emphasizes the capacity to produce compelling content that informs the public and fosters community discourse through professional and conscientious media practice. Graduates are prepared to navigate the rapidly evolving media landscape with a commitment to integrity and the public good. The curriculum leverages modern broadcasting technology while grounding production strategies in historical and theoretical analysis. By balancing rigorous academic inquiry with practical field experience, the program ensures students understand the societal impact of their work and the importance of ethical transparency in the digital age.
The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Broadcast Journalism combines a robust foundation in general education with comprehensive study in the theory of broadcast media, behavioral science, human development, communication ethics, research methods, crisis awareness, media referral processes, 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 Broadcast Journalism
- 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 complex social issues through the lens of objective journalism and ethical reasoning.
- Demonstrate technical proficiency in digital media production, including camera operation, audio engineering, and nonlinear editing.
- Evaluate the impact of mass media on public opinion and community health.
- Communicate nuanced narratives effectively across multiple digital broadcast platforms.
- Apply biblical stewardship and servant leadership principles to organizational media strategies.
- Integrate a coherent professional ethic into the creation and distribution of news content.
- Develop a comprehensive portfolio of original journalistic work that meets industry standard technical benchmarks.
Admission Requirements
Admission and entry requirements
Prospective students must submit an application for undergraduate admission, which includes an official high school transcript demonstrating a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or equivalent GED certification. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic potential, personal character, and commitment to the mission of the institution. A personal essay reflecting on the applicant's interest in media, ethical engagement, and community service is required. Transfer students must provide transcripts from all previously attended postsecondary institutions, ensuring a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in prior college-level coursework.
Senior Capstone Project
The Senior Capstone Project represents the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Broadcast Journalism, requiring students to synthesize their theoretical knowledge and technical skills into a professional-grade media project. Spanning the final semester, this project asks students to research, produce, and present a long-form journalistic piece that addresses a significant community or social issue. Students are expected to demonstrate advanced mastery in content acquisition, editing, and distribution, while articulating the ethical and moral implications of their journalistic work. The scope of the project requires rigorous fact-checking, narrative structure, and professional technical execution, reflecting the highest standards of the discipline. Beyond academic competence, the project requires students to integrate their faith-based perspective by detailing how their reporting reflects principles of stewardship, truth-telling, and service to their audience. Students must provide a written reflection detailing the ways in which their character development and spiritual formation influenced their investigative process and professional decision-making. This project serves as a definitive demonstration of the student’s readiness to engage in responsible and impactful media production within a complex, diverse society.
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
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| ENG101 | Composition I | 4 | None |
View DescriptionThis course develops skills in clear, academic writing and analytical thinking through a study of diverse texts. It emphasizes structural clarity and rhetorical effectiveness in professional discourse. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| COM101 | Intro to Broadcast Media | 4 | None |
View DescriptionThis course introduces students to the history and functions of broadcast media in contemporary society. Topics include basic production workflows and media ethics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| HUM101 | Critical Inquiry and Ethics | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course examines ethical systems and critical thinking techniques necessary for academic success. Students learn to evaluate arguments and formulate logical conclusions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| MAT101 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course covers fundamental mathematical concepts and their application to real-world data analysis. Students develop skills in interpreting statistics and quantitative evidence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
Semester 2
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| ENG102 | Composition II | 4 | ENG101 |
View DescriptionThis course focuses on research-based writing and persuasive rhetoric for professional media applications. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple reputable sources. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| COM110 | Digital Storytelling Fundamentals | 4 | COM101 |
View DescriptionThis course explores the principles of narrative development for visual and auditory media. Students practice scripting and storyboard design for broadcast platforms. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| SOC101 | Principles of Sociology | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course surveys social structures, cultural dynamics, and community organization. It provides a foundation for understanding the diverse environments in which journalists operate. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| THE101 | Foundations of Ethical Thought | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course explores the intersection of moral philosophy and professional conduct. It emphasizes the importance of servant leadership in institutional settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
Semester 3
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| COM201 | Audio Production and Editing | 4 | COM110 |
View DescriptionThis course provides hands-on training in field recording and studio audio editing. Students gain proficiency in professional industry software. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| HIS201 | History of Mass Communication | 4 | None |
View DescriptionThis course reviews the development of media technologies and their impact on global societies. It analyzes how media has shaped public policy and cultural history. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course offers an overview of human behavior, cognitive processes, and social perception. Understanding psychology is vital for effective journalistic communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| MIN205 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course applies the concept of servant leadership to management and interpersonal professional relations. It focuses on the importance of stewardship within diverse work settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
Year 2
Semester 4
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| COM210 | Video Production and Cinematography | 4 | COM201 |
View DescriptionThis course focuses on camera techniques, lighting, and composition for visual storytelling. Students apply aesthetic principles to broadcast content creation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| ENG250 | Journalistic Writing | 4 | ENG102 |
View DescriptionThis course covers the essentials of news reporting, interviewing, and editorial development. It emphasizes accuracy, objectivity, and narrative clarity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| BUS205 | Media Management and Stewardship | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course examines the business side of broadcasting, including budgeting and resource allocation. It centers on the concept of stewarding organizational assets effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| HUM250 | Cultural Studies and Diversity | 3 | None |
View DescriptionThis course explores the sociological and historical aspects of diverse communities. It encourages an inclusive perspective for broadcast journalists working in a global society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
Semester 5
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| COM301 | Advanced Broadcast Production | 4 | COM210 |
View DescriptionThis course delves into complex technical workflows for multi-camera productions. Students develop advanced skill sets in production coordination and live broadcast environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| COM320 | Investigative Journalism | 4 | ENG250 |
View DescriptionThis course focuses on deep-dive reporting, data gathering, and legal considerations in journalism. Students practice evidence-based research and ethical verification. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| RES301 | Research Methods for Social Issues | 3 | MAT101 |
View DescriptionThis course introduces qualitative and quantitative research techniques for journalistic investigations. It emphasizes transparency and data integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| PHI310 | Professional Ethics and Moral Theory | 3 | THE101 |
View DescriptionThis course examines the foundations of ethical decision-making within the media industry and the broader public square. Students evaluate various moral frameworks and their practical application to contemporary professional dilemmas. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
Semester 6
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| COM350 | Broadcast Journalism Ethics | 4 | COM320 |
View DescriptionThis course analyzes the moral responsibilities of journalists in a digital-first era. Case studies illustrate the complexity of public perception and objective reporting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| COM360 | Digital Media Distribution | 4 | COM301 |
View DescriptionThis course covers the technical and strategic aspects of distributing content across online platforms. It addresses social media integration and audience analytics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| SOC350 | Community Engagement and Service | 3 | SOC101 |
View DescriptionThis course explores the relationship between institutions and their community stakeholders. It emphasizes sustainable engagement strategies that promote social equity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| MGT305 | Nonprofit Administration | 3 | BUS205 |
View DescriptionThis course introduces the fundamentals of managing nonprofit operations. It emphasizes fiscal responsibility and the alignment of mission with organizational output. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
Year 3
Semester 7
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| COM401 | Advanced Digital Storytelling | 4 | COM360 |
View DescriptionThis course challenges students to create sophisticated narrative content. Students apply high-level technical and editorial skills to project development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| COM420 | Media Law and Regulatory Policy | 4 | COM350 |
View DescriptionThis course examines the legal framework governing broadcast media, including libel, copyright, and privacy laws. It highlights the importance of institutional transparency. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| EDU405 | Communication in Diverse Contexts | 3 | HUM250 |
View DescriptionThis course focuses on tailoring messages for diverse public audiences. It promotes inclusivity and cultural awareness in all forms of public discourse. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| MIN405 | Leadership in Public Service | 3 | MIN205 |
View DescriptionThis course explores the challenges of leading within public-facing organizations. It promotes a philosophy of service that prioritizes community welfare and ethical outcomes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
Semester 8
14 credits| Code | Course Title | Credits | Prerequisite |
|---|
| CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | COM401, COM420 |
View DescriptionThe senior capstone project allows students to synthesize their program knowledge into a professional journalistic production. Students showcase their technical, editorial, and ethical competence through a comprehensive final project. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| COM480 | Broadcast Internship Seminar | 4 | Senior Standing |
View DescriptionThis course provides structured reflection on field-based internship experiences. Students connect theoretical knowledge to professional practices and explore ethical dilemmas faced in real-world settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| ENG450 | Advanced Rhetorical Analysis | 3 | ENG250 |
View DescriptionThis course examines the persuasive structures of public communication and narrative media. Students develop the ability to interpret and critique messaging in a saturated media environment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions. |
| SOC495 | Social Innovation and Stewardship | 3 | SOC350 |
View DescriptionThis course integrates knowledge of organizational sustainability and social impact. It explores how media can be used for positive, community-focused development. 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 Broadcast Journalism 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
- ENG101 | Composition I | 4 | None
- COM101 | Intro to Broadcast Media | 4 | None
- HUM101 | Critical Inquiry and Ethics | 3 | None
- MAT101 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
- Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
- ENG102 | Composition II | 4 | ENG101
- COM110 | Digital Storytelling Fundamentals | 4 | COM101
- SOC101 | Principles of Sociology | 3 | None
- THE101 | Foundations of Ethical Thought | 3 | None
- Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
- COM201 | Audio Production and Editing | 4 | COM110
- HIS201 | History of Mass Communication | 4 | None
- PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
- MIN205 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | None
- Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
- COM210 | Video Production and Cinematography | 4 | COM201
- ENG250 | Journalistic Writing | 4 | ENG102
- BUS205 | Media Management and Stewardship | 3 | None
- HUM250 | Cultural Studies and Diversity | 3 | None
- Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
- COM301 | Advanced Broadcast Production | 4 | COM210
- COM320 | Investigative Journalism | 4 | ENG250
- RES301 | Research Methods for Social Issues | 3 | MAT101
- PHI310 | Professional Ethics and Moral Theory | 3 | THE101
- Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
- COM350 | Broadcast Journalism Ethics | 4 | COM320
- COM360 | Digital Media Distribution | 4 | COM301
- SOC350 | Community Engagement and Service | 3 | SOC101
- MGT305 | Nonprofit Administration | 3 | BUS205
- Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
- COM401 | Advanced Digital Storytelling | 4 | COM360
- COM420 | Media Law and Regulatory Policy | 4 | COM350
- EDU405 | Communication in Diverse Contexts | 3 | HUM250
- MIN405 | Leadership in Public Service | 3 | MIN205
- Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
- CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | COM401, COM420
- COM480 | Broadcast Internship Seminar | 4 | Senior Standing
- ENG450 | Advanced Rhetorical Analysis | 3 | ENG250
- SOC495 | Social Innovation and Stewardship | 3 | SOC350
- CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project — 4 credits
Graduation Requirements
Graduation and completion requirements
- Graduation from the program requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and the fulfillment of all core, elective, and capstone requirements. Academic achievement must be paired with evidence of spiritual maturity and ethical integrity, demonstrated through mandatory participation in weekly chapel services, ongoing community service requirements, and the successful completion of designated spiritual formation coursework. Students must exhibit a commitment to the university’s mission of servant leadership by maintaining good standing in both their academic and community life. The path to graduation is designed to ensure that each student possesses not only the professional skills required for media production but also the moral framework necessary to navigate the complexities of public service and institutional leadership. Through this holistic approach, students are prepared to graduate as individuals of character, ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and professional fields with a steadfast dedication to truth, ethics, and the common good.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities
Career Opportunities
- Broadcast News Producer
- Nonprofit Communications Coordinator
- Digital Content Director
- Investigative Reporter
- Faith-Based Advocacy Communications Officer
- Media Production Specialist
- Community Outreach Liaison
- Public Relations Consultant
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 Broadcast Journalism
- Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
- Normal completion time | Four academic years