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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice

Academic unitCollege of Communication and MediaTotal credits120Estimated duration4 yearsSource documentBachelor_of_Arts_in_Faith_Based_Investigative_Journalism__Reporting__Specializat.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Investigative Journalism, Reporting, and ethical practice core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism and Reporting is a rigorous undergraduate program designed to cultivate professional journalists who are grounded in ethical integrity, critical inquiry, and a commitment to truth-seeking. Students examine the power of information in a democratic society, learning to leverage investigative techniques to advocate for social justice, transparency, and the common good. By combining traditional reporting skills with advanced media research methods, the program equips graduates to operate effectively in diverse communication landscapes while maintaining high standards of journalistic ethics and social responsibility.

Throughout the curriculum, students explore the intersection of media, ethics, and service. The program emphasizes the role of the reporter as a steward of public discourse, encouraging the application of discernment and servant leadership in the pursuit of accuracy and public trust. Graduates emerge prepared to navigate complex digital environments, producing investigative content that fosters community awareness, promotes civic engagement, and supports the mission-driven goals of organizations and stakeholders dedicated to the betterment of society.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice combines a robust liberal arts general education foundation with comprehensive study in the subject theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support. This program is designed to equip students with the analytical skills and ethical framework necessary to excel in the field of journalism from a values-based perspective.

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 Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice
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 Communication and Media
Total credits: 120
Duration: 4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

Analyze complex social, political, and ethical issues through the lens of rigorous investigative research methodologies.
Evaluate the impact of journalistic reporting on public policy and community welfare.
Demonstrate advanced competency in multi-platform storytelling, including long-form narrative, multimedia production, and data analysis.
Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to navigate conflicts of interest, source protection, and the responsibilities of public information sharing.
Develop professional portfolios that showcase sophisticated investigative techniques, journalistic integrity, and effective communication strategies.
Integrate a commitment to servant leadership and social stewardship into the practice of professional reporting and media management.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a completed high school diploma or its recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students are required to submit an academic personal statement reflecting on their interest in investigative reporting, ethical discourse, and the intersection of media and civic service. Additionally, all applicants must participate in an admissions interview to assess their readiness for college-level research and their alignment with the mission of institutional service and community-based engagement. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating intellectual and creative experience for students in the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism program. This final-year project requires students to execute a comprehensive, in-depth investigative reporting series on a subject of significant social impact. Students are tasked with identifying a systemic issue, conducting rigorous primary and secondary research, verifying factual information, and producing a polished, multi-platform body of work that demonstrates professional-grade journalistic skill and profound ethical reasoning. Beyond technical competence, the capstone provides a structured environment for students to synthesize their academic learning with their personal development as agents of servant leadership. The project requires the submission of a critical reflection paper, which articulates how the student applied a commitment to biblical stewardship and truth-telling throughout their research process. This synthesis of investigative rigor and ethical mindfulness ensures that graduates leave the program prepared to contribute meaningfully to their communities through professional excellence that aligns with their faith-informed vocation and character.

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

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
ENG101	Academic Composition I	4	None
View Description This course focuses on essential skills in research-based writing and critical analysis. It emphasizes clear, concise communication for diverse public and nonprofit audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM105	Introduction to Communication Studies	3	None
View Description An introduction to the foundations of interpersonal, group, and organizational communication. Students analyze various media environments and communication structures. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS110	Historical Foundations of Social Movements	3	None
View Description This course examines the history of civil movements and their reliance on effective investigative storytelling. Students identify patterns in social reform and public communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
THE102	Foundations of Ethical Thought	3	None
View Description An exploration of moral philosophy and ethical reasoning within a structured academic context. Students apply these frameworks to modern societal issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM120	Introduction to Journalism	3	ENG101
View Description Students learn the core principles of news gathering, fact-checking, and journalistic writing. The course highlights the reporter’s role in promoting accuracy and community awareness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC150	Sociology of Communities	3	None
View Description A study of social dynamics, community health, and institutional impact. Students analyze the factors that influence community well-being and development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
ENG102	Advanced Academic Writing	3	ENG101
View Description Students hone skills in argumentative writing and technical document production. Emphasis is placed on producing content that facilitates public understanding. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MAT201	Data Analysis for Social Research	4	None
View Description An introduction to statistical methods and the interpretation of quantitative data in research. Students practice identifying trends in social and institutional data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM210	Investigative Research Methods	4	COM120
View Description This course trains students in deep-dive research techniques including public record requests and archival search. Accuracy and ethical verification are emphasized throughout the research process. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS205	Principles of Management	3	None
View Description An exploration of leadership, resource allocation, and organizational strategy. Students apply management principles to the effective operation of public-interest media. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM230	Multimedia Production	3	COM120
View Description Technical instruction on digital audio, video, and web-based storytelling tools. Students create media assets for reporting projects. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY220	Social Psychology	3	None
View Description Analysis of how individuals influence and are influenced by society. Students explore behaviors that impact organizational outcomes and community engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM250	Media Law and Ethics	3	COM210
View Description Review of the legal parameters of journalism and the ethical standards governing media outlets. Students analyze case studies to understand public duty and responsibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MIN210	Stewardship and Community Service	3	THE102
View Description An investigation into the theological concept of stewardship and its application to social engagement. Students design community service projects that support institutional goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM275	Feature Writing and Narrative	3	COM210
View Description Techniques for crafting compelling, long-form journalistic narratives. The focus is on human-interest storytelling that highlights systemic challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES200	Introduction to Academic Inquiry	3	ENG102
View Description Fundamental skills in information literacy and qualitative research design. Students learn to format research findings for scholarly and professional dissemination. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM310	Advanced Investigative Reporting	4	COM250
View Description Advanced training in document analysis, source development, and high-stakes verification. Students focus on complex systemic investigation with high ethical standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM330	Digital Storytelling and Analytics	3	COM230
View Description Study of how digital engagement influences public perceptions and campaign success. Students use analytical tools to measure the impact of content. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS315	Organizational Leadership	3	BUS205
View Description Development of servant leadership skills within diverse teams. Focuses on motivating others toward shared missions of service and integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CRJ300	Justice Systems and Public Policy	3	SOC150
View Description Overview of public justice mechanisms and the role of policy in community stability. Students analyze the impact of reform on local environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM350	Data Visualization for Journalists	3	MAT201
View Description Technical training in presenting complex datasets through intuitive visualizations. This enhances the ability of the public to grasp critical information. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM380	Crisis Communication	3	COM250
View Description Strategies for communication during institutional or social crises. Emphasis is placed on transparency, clear messaging, and maintaining public trust. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CHR320	Worldview and Cultural Engagement	3	THE102
View Description Examination of competing worldviews and how they influence media and community perception. Students learn to navigate and communicate effectively in pluralistic settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM390	Internship in Media Reporting	3	COM310
View Description Professional placement allowing for the application of skills in a field setting. Students demonstrate competency in reporting within real-world constraints. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM410	Strategic Communications for Nonprofits	3	COM330
View Description Focuses on creating campaigns that highlight the mission and impact of nonprofit entities. Students learn to align narrative output with organizational goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM420	Media Ethics in Public Life	3	COM380
View Description Advanced seminar on moral challenges within contemporary media industries. Students synthesize previous learning to address complex ethical scenarios. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES400	Advanced Research Design	3	RES200
View Description Preparation for the capstone project through advanced methodological planning and project design. Students formulate a research question of professional significance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU405	Community Education and Outreach	3	SOC150
View Description Methods for educating the public on critical issues through media platforms. Students evaluate the effectiveness of outreach as a tool for advocacy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 8

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CAP490	Senior Capstone Project	4	RES400, COM420
View Description The final integration project involving independent investigative reporting on a significant issue. Deliverables include a comprehensive dossier, a public presentation, and a theological reflection paper. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MGT450	Nonprofit Resource Stewardship	3	BUS315
View Description Financial and operational principles for the sustainable management of public-interest organizations. Students learn to manage resources with long-term mission viability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM460	Portfolio Development and Professionalism	3	CAP490
View Description Synthesis of student creative and investigative work into a professional, career-ready portfolio. Focus is on career readiness and servant leadership in media. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HUM480	Cultural Criticism and Public Discourse	3	CHR320
View Description Students analyze modern discourse to critique how investigative narratives shape public cultural understanding. The course promotes critical reflection on societal progress. 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 Investigative Journalism, Reporting, and ethical practice 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 | Academic Composition I | 4 | None
COM105 | Introduction to Communication Studies | 3 | None
HIS110 | Historical Foundations of Social Movements | 3 | None
THE102 | Foundations of Ethical Thought | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM120 | Introduction to Journalism | 3 | ENG101
SOC150 | Sociology of Communities | 3 | None
ENG102 | Advanced Academic Writing | 3 | ENG101
MAT201 | Data Analysis for Social Research | 4 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM210 | Investigative Research Methods | 4 | COM120
BUS205 | Principles of Management | 3 | None
COM230 | Multimedia Production | 3 | COM120
PSY220 | Social Psychology | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM250 | Media Law and Ethics | 3 | COM210
MIN210 | Stewardship and Community Service | 3 | THE102
COM275 | Feature Writing and Narrative | 3 | COM210
RES200 | Introduction to Academic Inquiry | 3 | ENG102
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM310 | Advanced Investigative Reporting | 4 | COM250
COM330 | Digital Storytelling and Analytics | 3 | COM230
BUS315 | Organizational Leadership | 3 | BUS205
CRJ300 | Justice Systems and Public Policy | 3 | SOC150
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM350 | Data Visualization for Journalists | 3 | MAT201
COM380 | Crisis Communication | 3 | COM250
CHR320 | Worldview and Cultural Engagement | 3 | THE102
COM390 | Internship in Media Reporting | 3 | COM310
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM410 | Strategic Communications for Nonprofits | 3 | COM330
COM420 | Media Ethics in Public Life | 3 | COM380
RES400 | Advanced Research Design | 3 | RES200
EDU405 | Community Education and Outreach | 3 | SOC150
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES400, COM420
MGT450 | Nonprofit Resource Stewardship | 3 | BUS315
COM460 | Portfolio Development and Professionalism | 3 | CAP490
HUM480 | Cultural Criticism and Public Discourse | 3 | CHR320

CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project — 4 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 core academic coursework, students must achieve a satisfactory grade in the Senior Capstone Project and complete all mandated credits in the general education and communication major sequences. The institution emphasizes that academic success must be paired with spiritual and personal maturity; therefore, students are expected to engage in campus-wide opportunities for community service and spiritual formation, reflecting a commitment to ongoing growth.
Throughout their tenure, students must demonstrate readiness for faith-informed service by adhering to the university's code of conduct and participating in scheduled collaborative initiatives. Graduation is defined by the integration of intellectual mastery and the demonstrated ability to serve organizations with integrity and transparency. By successfully navigating these requirements, students confirm their preparation to function as ethical professionals and leaders in the field of investigative journalism.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Investigative Reporter for mission-driven news agencies
Communications Director for nonprofit organizations
Advocacy and Public Policy Research Consultant
Community Engagement and Media Outreach Specialist
Content Editor for social impact media platforms
Public Relations Coordinator for faith-based entities
Nonprofit Development and Media Relations Officer

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 Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years