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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Journalism, Public Affairs, Specialization in Public Policy Media

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

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Journalism, Public Affairs, Specialization in Public Policy Media

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Journalism and public affairs core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Journalism and Public Affairs with a specialization in Public Policy Media is an interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the sophisticated communication skills necessary to navigate the complex intersection of media, ethics, and public policy. Students engage in rigorous academic inquiry, analyzing the role of journalism in a democratic society while exploring how strategic communication influences public discourse and policy development. The curriculum emphasizes the development of professional media production skills, analytical reasoning, and an unwavering commitment to integrity, ensuring graduates are prepared to articulate complex social issues with precision and professional excellence.

Throughout the program, students explore the historical, legal, and ethical frameworks that govern journalism and political communication. By integrating professional media standards with an understanding of civic responsibility, the program prepares students to act as informed stewards of information. The curriculum encourages students to examine their roles as communicators within a global context, fostering a sense of civic duty and the application of ethical principles in the pursuit of truth and public service.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Journalism, Public Affairs, and Public Policy Media combines rigorous academic training with a commitment to ethical communication. The program provides comprehensive study in the theory of journalism and public affairs, behavioral science, human development, professional ethics, media research, crisis awareness, professional referral processes, content development, and community-based support strategies.

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 Journalism, Public Affairs, Specialization in Public Policy Media
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 the ethical dimensions of journalism and public affairs to support informed decision-making in diverse civic environments.
Apply advanced journalistic techniques to research, draft, and produce media content for various platforms including digital, print, and broadcast.
Evaluate the impact of public policy on community well-being through the integration of historical and political data analysis.
Communicate complex policy narratives clearly and effectively to reach diverse public audiences and facilitate civic dialogue.
Design comprehensive media campaigns that uphold institutional integrity and demonstrate high standards of professional stewardship.
Integrate a robust ethical framework into media practices to address contemporary social challenges with maturity and integrity.
Develop collaborative strategies for professional media engagement that align with the organizational goals of service-oriented entities.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or its equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Admissions committees evaluate the applicant's academic potential, communication aptitude, and commitment to the institution’s mission of ethical, service-oriented leadership. Prospective students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English language arts and a foundational interest in civic affairs through a personal statement and, if applicable, an interview with faculty representatives. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the definitive culmination of the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Journalism and Public Affairs, requiring students to synthesize their disciplinary knowledge into a comprehensive portfolio of professional work. Students are tasked with identifying a critical issue in public policy and producing a multi-format media series—including investigative articles, video segments, and policy briefs—that addresses the problem through an analytical and ethical lens. This project requires students to demonstrate mastery in research, production, and narrative coherence, serving as a professional showcase of their technical proficiency and academic maturity. Beyond technical competence, the capstone provides a vehicle for demonstrating personal and spiritual integration. Students must explicitly articulate how their work reflects principles of servant leadership, biblical stewardship, and ethical integrity within the media landscape. The final deliverables include a reflection paper detailing the student’s growth in character, their commitment to truth-telling, and their vision for contributing to the common good. This requirement is weighted at 4 credit hours, emphasizing the depth of analysis and the professional rigor expected of graduating seniors as they transition into their professional vocations.

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

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
ENG101	Academic Writing and Rhetoric	3	None
View Description This course focuses on developing critical reading and academic writing skills for university-level discourse. It emphasizes argumentation, research methodology, and professional communication standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM110	Foundations of Journalism	3	None
View Description An introduction to the principles and history of journalism, covering investigative techniques and the responsibilities of a professional reporter. Students learn to evaluate sources and synthesize information for diverse audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS105	Western Civilization and Global Perspectives	3	None
View Description This course explores the historical development of social and political institutions that shape contemporary public affairs. Students examine foundational ideas and their influence on modern democratic practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY100	Foundations of Personal Development and Behavioral Psychology	3	None
View Description This course explores theories of human development, motivation, and the formation of professional character in social environments. Students analyze behavioral patterns and psychological frameworks to cultivate effective interpersonal and leadership skills. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
ENG102	Advanced Research and Critical Analysis	3	ENG101
View Description A study of advanced research methods, including qualitative and quantitative data gathering for media and public policy reporting. Students focus on evaluating source credibility and crafting evidence-based narratives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM120	Media Ethics and Law	3	COM110
View Description This course examines the legal and ethical boundaries of journalism, focusing on libel, privacy, and intellectual property. Students discuss case studies to understand the application of moral reasoning in public communications. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC101	Introduction to Sociology	3	None
View Description An exploration of human social behavior, societal structures, and the impact of policy on diverse community groups. The course provides a lens for analyzing the social implications of media coverage. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MAT150	Statistical Methods for Social Science	3	None
View Description An introduction to statistical analysis and data interpretation, crucial for journalists covering public policy and social issues. Students practice applying quantitative methods to verify and report on complex data sets. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM210	Digital Media Production	4	COM110
View Description A practical course on digital media creation, including multi-platform content strategy and technical production skills. Students create professional-grade media outputs for various reporting environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL201	Introduction to Public Policy	3	None
View Description This course analyzes the processes of policy development, implementation, and evaluation within governmental and non-governmental spheres. Students gain an understanding of how legislation and community needs intersect. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS250	History of Public Policy and Reform	3	HIS105
View Description An investigation into historical social movements and the policy shifts that resulted, providing context for contemporary media engagement. Students analyze how history influences modern political communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS200	Management for Nonprofits	3	None
View Description This course introduces organizational management, strategic planning, and the operational principles of mission-driven entities. Students learn how to manage communication and resources in a nonprofit context. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM250	Investigative Journalism Methods	3	COM110, COM120
View Description Techniques for in-depth investigative work, focusing on access to public records, interview strategies, and critical analysis. Students develop the skills necessary to report on complex public sector issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL250	Public Policy Media Analysis	3	POL201
View Description A study of how media narratives influence public policy outcomes and the role of the journalist as a public analyst. Students evaluate political messaging and identify media trends in the public sector. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY210	Social Psychology and Public Opinion	3	SOC101
View Description Examines the psychological principles underlying public opinion formation and the social influences on media consumption. Students learn how to communicate policy more effectively to target audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HUM220	Ethics in Global Citizenship	3	MIN100
View Description An analysis of ethical dilemmas in a globalized world, focusing on stewardship and responsible community participation. Students practice integrating these values into their professional decision-making processes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM310	Multimedia Storytelling and Design	4	COM210
View Description Advanced training in visual and narrative storytelling, integrating data visualization and digital production techniques. Students develop compelling media content designed to communicate complex issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL310	Legislative Processes and Advocacy	3	POL250
View Description An analysis of how public policy is shaped through legislative advocacy and institutional engagement. Students study the strategies used to influence public policy for the advancement of communal interests. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM330	Public Affairs and Strategic Communication	3	COM250
View Description Strategies for managing communication for public entities, focusing on transparency and ethical representation. Students learn to build trust and convey organizational mission through various media channels. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS310	Grant Writing and Resource Stewardship	3	BUS200
View Description A technical course on professional grant writing, focusing on the alignment of organizational mission with community funding needs. Students practice sustainable resource management through communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM360	Journalism in the Digital Age	3	COM310
View Description Analyzes the evolution of journalism in contemporary society, focusing on digital trends and the impact of technology on public discourse. Students evaluate new media frameworks and their applications. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL350	International Policy and Human Rights	3	POL310
View Description An investigation of international policy structures and the role of communication in advocating for fundamental rights and community justice. Students explore the intersection of policy and humanitarian missions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU350	Community Engagement and Leadership	3	SOC101
View Description Studies the principles of community outreach and leadership, focusing on collaborative strategies for local impact. Students learn to build coalitions and foster community dialogue. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES300	Research Design for Public Affairs	3	ENG102, MAT150
View Description Advanced research methodology focused on identifying social needs and evaluating media campaign efficacy. Students prepare the preliminary framework for their senior capstone projects. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
COM410	Crisis Communication and Management	3	COM330
View Description Examines the role of effective communication during crises, emphasizing ethical responses and the maintenance of stakeholder trust. Students study best practices in reputation management for public-facing organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL410	Advanced Policy Analysis and Reporting	4	POL350
View Description An intensive course where students synthesize complex policy data into accessible public-facing journalism and policy briefings. The course emphasizes narrative integrity and clarity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS400	Organizational Leadership and Professional Ethics	3	MIN100
View Description This course examines principles of ethical leadership, decision-making, and organizational management within the public and nonprofit sectors. Students develop strategies for navigating complex professional challenges while promoting institutional integrity and social responsibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM450	Media Entrepreneurship	3	BUS310
View Description Explores the business side of journalism and media, including sustainable models for media ventures. Students analyze startup strategies for launching mission-driven media initiatives. 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	RES300
View Description The culminating experience where students complete a major investigative series and public policy critique. The project integrates technical production with ethical analysis and community impact evaluation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM480	Professional Internship in Public Affairs	3	Senior Standing
View Description Provides supervised field experience within a communication, government, or policy-oriented organization. Students apply their journalistic skills in a practical environment under professional mentorship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL499	Current Issues in Public Policy	3	POL410
View Description A seminar analyzing current events through the lens of policy impact, media representation, and social justice. Students lead discussions and critique the role of journalists in current affairs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HUM495	Senior Seminar: Ethics and Civic Stewardship	3	Senior Standing
View Description A final synthesis course where students reflect on the integration of ethics, service, and professional responsibility. It focuses on the transition from academic life to professional practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Major / Core Requirements

Major and core requirements

General education | 36 credit hours

Journalism and public affairs 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 Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
COM110 | Foundations of Journalism | 3 | None
HIS105 | Western Civilization and Global Perspectives | 3 | None
PSY100 | Foundations of Personal Development and Behavioral Psychology | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
ENG102 | Advanced Research and Critical Analysis | 3 | ENG101
COM120 | Media Ethics and Law | 3 | COM110
SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
MAT150 | Statistical Methods for Social Science | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM210 | Digital Media Production | 4 | COM110
POL201 | Introduction to Public Policy | 3 | None
HIS250 | History of Public Policy and Reform | 3 | HIS105
BUS200 | Management for Nonprofits | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM250 | Investigative Journalism Methods | 3 | COM110, COM120
POL250 | Public Policy Media Analysis | 3 | POL201
PSY210 | Social Psychology and Public Opinion | 3 | SOC101
HUM220 | Ethics in Global Citizenship | 3 | MIN100
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM310 | Multimedia Storytelling and Design | 4 | COM210
POL310 | Legislative Processes and Advocacy | 3 | POL250
COM330 | Public Affairs and Strategic Communication | 3 | COM250
BUS310 | Grant Writing and Resource Stewardship | 3 | BUS200
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM360 | Journalism in the Digital Age | 3 | COM310
POL350 | International Policy and Human Rights | 3 | POL310
EDU350 | Community Engagement and Leadership | 3 | SOC101
RES300 | Research Design for Public Affairs | 3 | ENG102, MAT150
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM410 | Crisis Communication and Management | 3 | COM330
POL410 | Advanced Policy Analysis and Reporting | 4 | POL350
BUS400 | Organizational Leadership and Professional Ethics | 3 | MIN100
COM450 | Media Entrepreneurship | 3 | BUS310
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES300
COM480 | Professional Internship in Public Affairs | 3 | Senior Standing
POL499 | Current Issues in Public Policy | 3 | POL410
HUM495 | Senior Seminar: Ethics and Civic Stewardship | 3 | Senior Standing

CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project — 4 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

To qualify for graduation, students must earn a minimum of 120 credit hours with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher. Successful completion of all core, elective, and capstone requirements is mandatory. Students must demonstrate proficiency in the core discipline, ensuring they have met all learning objectives through consistent academic performance and the satisfactory completion of the Senior Capstone Project. The university requires academic work to be paired with evidence of spiritual maturity, which is fostered through mandatory chapel attendance, documented community service, and ongoing participation in the program’s faith-informed mentorship activities.
Graduation recognizes not only the achievement of intellectual benchmarks but also the development of a student’s character and commitment to service. The degree affirms that the recipient possesses both the analytical capabilities required for professional communication and the ethical integrity necessary to represent institutional values. By integrating professional standards with reflective service, graduates confirm their readiness to engage in their careers as faithful, principled stewards of public information and community advocacy.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Political Communications Coordinator
Nonprofit Communications Manager
Investigative Journalist
Public Policy Media Analyst
Civic Engagement Officer
Digital Content Strategist
Advocacy and Press Relations Specialist

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 Journalism, Public Affairs, Specialization in Public Policy Media
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years