Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Digital Journalism Specialization in Media

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Digital 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

HBIU College of Communication and Media

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Analyze complex social issues through the lens of objective, investigative reporting.
• Apply advanced digital media production techniques to create professional-grade multi-platform content.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of digital media consumption and distribution in a global society.
• Design communication strategies that promote constructive dialogue and community engagement.
• Integrate principles of servant leadership and biblical stewardship into professional media practice.
• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing data-driven storytelling to address organizational challenges.
• Communicate complex narratives with clarity, accuracy, and professional rigor.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG101
• Academic Writing and Rhetoric
• 4
• None
• COM105
• Introduction to Digital Media
• 3
• None
• THE110
• Foundation of Ethics
• 3
• None
• HIS120
• World History and Culture
• 3
• None
• ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: This course focuses on developing foundational skills in formal writing, argumentation, and research. Students learn to construct compelling narratives for various media contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM105 — Introduction to Digital Media: An introductory survey of digital media history, theory, and current technological trends. Students examine how digital tools reshape communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE110 — Foundation of Ethics: This course explores the philosophical and theological foundations of moral decision-making. Students examine frameworks for ethical leadership and social responsibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS120 — World History and Culture: An exploration of global civilizations and their impact on modern institutional structures. Students analyze the development of community identity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM150
• Media Writing Basics
• 4
• ENG101
• RES120
• Information Literacy and Research
• 3
• ENG101
• PSY110
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• MIN150
• Principles of Servant Leadership
• 3
• None
• COM150 — Media Writing Basics: Students learn to craft accurate and engaging copy for digital platforms. Emphasis is placed on clarity and audience awareness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES120 — Information Literacy and Research: This course covers techniques for evaluating sources and conducting rigorous academic research. Students develop skills for fact-checking and data gathering. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY110 — Introduction to Psychology: An overview of human behavior and cognitive development. Students learn to apply psychological insights to media communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN150 — Principles of Servant Leadership: Students study the concepts of service and leadership as applied to organizations. The course emphasizes community engagement and stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM210
• Digital Photography and Visual Storytelling
• 4
• COM105
• COM220
• Journalistic Ethics
• 3
• COM150
• BUS200
• Introduction to Management
• 3
• None
• SOC210
• Sociology of Communities
• 3
• None
• COM210 — Digital Photography and Visual Storytelling: Introduction to visual composition and digital image production. Students learn to capture stories that resonate with diverse audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM220 — Journalistic Ethics: An examination of media codes of conduct and social responsibility. Students engage with complex case studies regarding media integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS200 — Introduction to Management: This course provides an overview of organizational structures and operational management. Students analyze processes for effective team coordination. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC210 — Sociology of Communities: An analysis of social dynamics and the importance of community health. Students learn to assess the needs of local and global populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM250
• Multi-Platform Storytelling
• 4
• COM150
• COM260
• Community Public Relations
• 3
• COM150
• MAT201
• Applied Statistics
• 3
• None
• PSY250
• Personal Development and Professional Ethics
• 3
• None
• COM250 — Multi-Platform Storytelling: Students learn to produce content for web, social media, and digital broadcast. The course emphasizes narrative cohesion across various media forms. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM260 — Community Public Relations: Study of communication strategies used to build relationships between organizations and their audiences. Focus is on transparency and trust. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT201 — Applied Statistics: Introduction to quantitative reasoning and data analysis for decision-making. Students interpret data relevant to community impact studies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY250 — Personal Development and Professional Ethics: This course explores psychological frameworks for individual character development and the establishment of personal ethical standards in professional settings. Students analyze models of human behavior to cultivate integrity and effective interpersonal skills within team environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM310
• Investigative Journalism
• 4
• RES120, COM220
• COM320
• Media Law and Regulation
• 3
• COM220
• MGT305
• Nonprofit Administration
• 3
• BUS200
• HUM315
• Cultural Anthropology
• 3
• None
• COM310 — Investigative Journalism: Advanced training in deep-dive research and reportage. Students learn to uncover and document significant social issues responsibly. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM320 — Media Law and Regulation: Overview of legal frameworks governing media production and distribution. Covers copyright, privacy, and defamation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT305 — Nonprofit Administration: An introduction to the management of nonprofit organizations and community-based entities. Focuses on stewardship of resources and organizational governance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM315 — Cultural Anthropology: A study of human cultures and diversity. Students examine how to engage effectively with diverse populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM350
• Digital Audio and Podcasting
• 4
• COM250
• COM360
• Social Media Analytics
• 3
• COM250, MAT201
• EDU300
• Communication for Advocacy
• 3
• COM260
• SOC350
• Media and Modern Social Movements
• 3
• THE110
• COM350 — Digital Audio and Podcasting: Techniques for producing high-quality audio content. Students learn to facilitate long-form discussions and narrative storytelling. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM360 — Social Media Analytics: Exploration of metrics and data usage for strategic communication. Students learn to measure the effectiveness of community-focused digital campaigns. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU300 — Communication for Advocacy: Strategies for using communication to educate and advocate for community initiatives. Focuses on persuasion and educational storytelling. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC350 — Media and Modern Social Movements: This course examines the intersection of digital media and contemporary social phenomena, focusing on how communication technology influences public opinion and societal change. Students critically analyze the role of digital narratives in shaping cultural discourse and community identity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM410
• Advanced Media Production
• 4
• COM350
• COM420
• Media Entrepreneurship
• 3
• MGT305
• RES400
• Advanced Research Methods
• 3
• RES120
• HIS410
• Public Policy and Society
• 3
• None
• COM410 — Advanced Media Production: A capstone-preparatory course focused on large-scale production workflows. Students refine their technical capabilities and creative output. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM420 — Media Entrepreneurship: Study of business models for sustainable media ventures. Covers funding, planning, and long-term organizational viability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES400 — Advanced Research Methods: Deepening research skills for complex investigations. Students apply mixed-method approaches to current media topics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS410 — Public Policy and Society: An analysis of policy influence on communities and the role of media in public discourse. Focuses on the intersection of government and local initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP490
• Senior Capstone Project
• 4
• COM410, RES400
• COM450
• Strategic Communication Planning
• 3
• COM360, MGT305
• COM460
• Global Issues in Media
• 3
• HUM315
• MIN480
• Ethics in Leadership
• 3
• MIN150, CHR250
• CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project where students execute a professional media initiative. Focuses on integration of ethics, production skills, and community impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM450 — Strategic Communication Planning: Developing comprehensive communication plans for institutional outreach. Emphasis is placed on organizational goals and community needs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM460 — Global Issues in Media: An analysis of cross-cultural media landscapes and global news impacts. Focuses on promoting peace and cross-cultural understanding. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN480 — Ethics in Leadership: Final synthesis of leadership philosophy and moral integrity in professional contexts. Focuses on long-term commitment to community stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Prospective students must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent recognized secondary education credential. Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic readiness through a transcript review, with a preferred cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher. In addition to standard academic records, candidates must submit a personal statement reflecting their commitment to academic excellence, service to others, and the institutional mission of HBI University. Admissions committees evaluate candidates holistically, considering their potential for character growth and their dedication to pursuing a vocation that serves the common good. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Digital Journalism, requiring students to synthesize their learning through the execution of a significant, multi-phase media project. Students are expected to produce a professional-grade portfolio or investigative series that addresses a specific community need or social challenge. This project serves as a demonstration of technical proficiency in digital production, rigorous research methodologies, and the ability to apply ethical standards to real-world media scenarios. Beyond technical competence, the capstone project integrates faith-informed perspectives by requiring students to articulate how their work reflects servant leadership, stewardship, and ethical integrity. Students must defend their project before a faculty panel, explaining how their research contributes to the public good and demonstrates a matured commitment to their professional calling. The project is weighted as 4 credit hours, underscoring its role in bridging the gap between undergraduate academic theory and the responsibilities of a professional practitioner committed to serving the greater community.

• To graduate with the Bachelor of Arts in Digital Journalism, students must successfully complete a total of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. All required coursework, including the core digital journalism curriculum and the Senior Capstone Project, must be completed to institutional standards. Students must also fulfill institutional requirements related to spiritual formation, which include regular participation in community chapel services and engagement in designated service-learning projects throughout their tenure.
• Graduation at HBI University signifies not only academic achievement but also a commitment to character development and ethical integrity. Candidates for graduation must demonstrate readiness for professional life by maintaining a record of consistent engagement with the university’s mission. This holistic approach ensures that students are prepared to enter their professional fields as leaders who prioritize truth, service, and the cultivation of healthy, flourishing communities.
• Career Opportunities
• Digital Content Strategist
• Nonprofit Communications Manager
• Investigative Reporter
• Multimedia Specialist
• Public Relations Coordinator for Faith-Based Organizations
• Social Media Producer
• Community Engagement Manager
• 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 Digital Journalism
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Faith-Based Digital Journalism core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 4 | None
• COM105 | Introduction to Digital Media | 3 | None
• THE110 | Foundation of Ethics | 3 | None
• HIS120 | World History and Culture | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM150 | Media Writing Basics | 4 | ENG101
• RES120 | Information Literacy and Research | 3 | ENG101
• PSY110 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• MIN150 | Principles of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM210 | Digital Photography and Visual Storytelling | 4 | COM105
• COM220 | Journalistic Ethics | 3 | COM150
• BUS200 | Introduction to Management | 3 | None
• SOC210 | Sociology of Communities | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM250 | Multi-Platform Storytelling | 4 | COM150
• COM260 | Community Public Relations | 3 | COM150
• MAT201 | Applied Statistics | 3 | None
• PSY250 | Personal Development and Professional Ethics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM310 | Investigative Journalism | 4 | RES120, COM220
• COM320 | Media Law and Regulation | 3 | COM220
• MGT305 | Nonprofit Administration | 3 | BUS200
• HUM315 | Cultural Anthropology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM350 | Digital Audio and Podcasting | 4 | COM250
• COM360 | Social Media Analytics | 3 | COM250, MAT201
• EDU300 | Communication for Advocacy | 3 | COM260
• SOC350 | Media and Modern Social Movements | 3 | THE110
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM410 | Advanced Media Production | 4 | COM350
• COM420 | Media Entrepreneurship | 3 | MGT305
• RES400 | Advanced Research Methods | 3 | RES120
• HIS410 | Public Policy and Society | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | COM410, RES400
• COM450 | Strategic Communication Planning | 3 | COM360, MGT305
• COM460 | Global Issues in Media | 3 | HUM315
• MIN480 | Ethics in Leadership | 3 | MIN150, CHR250