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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Political Law

Academic unitCollege of Law and Public PolicyTotal credits120Estimated duration4 yearsSource documentBachelor_of_Arts_in_Faith_Based_Political_Law.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Political Law

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Political Law core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Political Law offers an interdisciplinary approach to the study of law, governance, and public policy, rooted in the foundational principles of ethical stewardship and servant leadership. Students engage with the historical, philosophical, and legal frameworks that shape contemporary political systems while examining the role of personal conviction in the public square. The curriculum emphasizes the application of moral philosophy to legal dilemmas, equipping students with the tools to navigate complex regulatory environments with integrity. By merging traditional legal studies with social ethics, the program encourages a rigorous inquiry into the intersections of law, justice, and the common good. Students are challenged to cultivate a nuanced understanding of democratic processes and to develop the critical thinking skills necessary to influence policy through collaborative and responsible participation.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Political Law program integrates a comprehensive liberal arts foundation with specialized study in the intersection of legal theory, theology, behavioral science, and human development. The curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making, rigorous legal research, crisis awareness, civic referral systems, program development, and the implementation of community-based support structures rooted in faith-based principles.

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 Political Law
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 Law and Public Policy
Total credits: 120
Duration: 4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

Analyze the structural foundations of the American legal system and its historical relationship to moral and ethical frameworks.
Evaluate contemporary public policy issues through the lens of ethical leadership and community-focused stewardship.
Demonstrate advanced competency in legal research and writing, communicating complex arguments with clarity and precision.
Apply biblical and theological perspectives to navigate ethical dilemmas in legislative and regulatory settings.
Design comprehensive policy recommendations that reflect a commitment to the common good and societal flourishing.
Integrate principles of servant leadership into the development of collaborative, multidisciplinary solutions for public policy challenges.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or recognized equivalent, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence through a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Admissions consideration involves a review of academic transcripts, a personal essay detailing the candidate's commitment to ethical service, and two letters of recommendation from professional or academic references. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience of the degree, requiring students to execute an original research project or an applied policy analysis that addresses a real-world legal or civic challenge. Through this project, students demonstrate mastery of their disciplinary knowledge while integrating their personal formation into their professional methodology. The scope involves identifying a problem within a community or political setting, conducting thorough investigative research, and proposing a sustainable, ethical solution that reflects the principles of servant leadership and stewardship. The final deliverable consists of an extensive written thesis and a professional presentation to faculty and community stakeholders. Students are expected to articulate how their faith-based perspective informs their proposed interventions and how they uphold academic rigor throughout the investigative process. This project assesses not only the student's mastery of political law but also their development as a thoughtful, integrity-driven practitioner.

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	3	None
View Description This course focuses on advanced writing strategies and critical rhetorical analysis. Students develop the capacity to produce clear, structured arguments suitable for academic and professional discourse. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS105	History of Western Political Thought	4	None
View Description This course examines the evolution of Western political theories and their influence on current governance structures. Students analyze core texts to understand the development of rights, justice, and the state. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PHI110	Foundations of Ethical Theory	3	None
View Description This course examines the fundamental principles of moral philosophy and historical approaches to ethical decision-making. It emphasizes the application of normative frameworks to contemporary dilemmas in public life. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MAT110	Quantitative Reasoning	3	None
View Description This course covers fundamental mathematical concepts and logical reasoning essential for data analysis in public policy. Students interpret quantitative data to make informed, evidence-based assessments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ102	Introduction to Legal Systems	3	None
View Description An overview of the American judicial process, court structures, and the role of legal practitioners. Students explore the intersection of law and societal order. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM120	Communication and Advocacy	3	None
View Description This course develops skills in public speaking, argumentation, and persuasive communication. Students learn to frame complex policy positions for diverse public audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC150	Sociology of Community	3	None
View Description An examination of social structures and the dynamics of community organizations within a changing society. Students assess the impact of policy on local social well-being. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES100	Research Methods	4	None
View Description An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods appropriate for legal and policy analysis. Students design and conduct basic research projects. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ210	Constitutional Law	4	CRJ102
View Description This course analyzes the United States Constitution and significant Supreme Court decisions that shape current law. Students interpret judicial rulings and their societal implications. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS205	Business Ethics and Governance	3	None
View Description A study of ethical decision-making within the context of legal and business organizational structures. Students evaluate corporate responsibility and legal compliance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL201	State and Local Government	3	None
View Description An exploration of sub-national governance, political engagement, and the legislative processes at the local level. Students analyze how local policy impacts community health and function. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY220	Social Psychology	3	None
View Description This course examines the influence of social environment on behavior and group decision-making processes. Students integrate psychological insights into their approach to political advocacy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ250	Administrative Law	3	CRJ102
View Description This course covers the powers and procedures of administrative agencies and the laws that govern them. Students develop an understanding of regulatory oversight and due process. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU230	Foundations of Public Policy	3	None
View Description An introductory analysis of how public policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated within the American system. Students design basic proposals to address specific public issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MIN240	Servant Leadership Principles	3	None
View Description This course explores the concept of leadership as service, emphasizing integrity, empathy, and ethical stewardship. Students reflect on their own leadership identity in public settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HUM250	Human Rights and International Law	4	None
View Description A survey of universal legal frameworks governing human rights and international relations. Students examine the historical evolution and current application of human rights standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ310	Legal Writing and Research	4	CRJ210
View Description Advanced training in drafting legal documents, memoranda, and research briefs. Students refine their analytical skills for professional legal environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL330	Legislative Process	3	POL201
View Description An in-depth study of the legislative mechanics at the federal and state levels. Students simulate the bill-to-law process to understand negotiation and policy formation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS340	Nonprofit Law and Management	3	None
View Description This course focuses on the legal requirements for operating non-profit organizations, including compliance and governance. Students evaluate the strategic management of mission-driven organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC320	Sociology of Civil Society	3	CHR110
View Description This course investigates the role of non-governmental organizations and voluntary associations within the modern democratic framework. Students will analyze how civil society entities influence public policy and social outcomes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ360	Environmental Law and Ethics	3	CRJ250
View Description This course examines the intersection of legal regulation and ecological stewardship. Students discuss the responsibilities of policy-makers in preserving natural resources. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL370	Political Communication Strategy	3	COM120
View Description A focus on the design and execution of political messaging in a digital age. Students create comprehensive communication plans for policy initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC380	Social Justice and Inequality	4	SOC150
View Description An analysis of systemic inequalities and the legal efforts intended to address them. Students evaluate the effectiveness of historical and modern social reform movements. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES390	Public Policy Analysis Lab	3	RES100
View Description A practical application course where students evaluate complex policy problems through data-driven research. Students develop actionable evidence-based recommendations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ420	Advanced Legal Seminar	4	CRJ310
View Description A senior-level seminar focusing on emerging legal issues and contemporary policy debates. Students critique current judicial precedents and potential shifts in law. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MGT450	Strategic Planning in Public Policy	3	BUS340
View Description This course guides students in developing long-term strategic plans for organizations influencing public policy. Students align organizational mission with effective policy execution. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL460	Global Political Systems	3	HUM250
View Description A comparative analysis of international political structures and governance models. Students assess the transferability of policy solutions across borders. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MIN480	Professionalism and Ethics in Practice	3	MIN240
View Description An intensive study of professional conduct, integrity, and ethical challenges in legal and public service careers. Students develop a framework for maintaining personal integrity in their future work. 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	RES390
View Description This culminating project requires students to research and present a comprehensive analysis on a significant policy or legal topic, integrating ethical frameworks with practical applications. It serves as the final assessment of academic and character development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL495	Legislative Simulation	3	POL330
View Description An experiential learning course where students navigate simulated legislative sessions, negotiations, and committee hearings. Students apply all acquired political and legal knowledge in a high-stakes environment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CRJ470	Contemporary Constitutional Debates	3	CRJ210
View Description An exploration of current controversies within constitutional law, focusing on the tensions between policy intent and judicial review. Students construct arguments representing diverse legal interpretations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC499	Community Engagement Internship	3	None
View Description A field-based experience involving supervised placement within a relevant civic or legal organization. Students apply classroom theory to real-world administrative and social tasks. 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 Political Law 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 | 3 | None
HIS105 | History of Western Political Thought | 4 | None
PHI110 | Foundations of Ethical Theory | 3 | None
MAT110 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ102 | Introduction to Legal Systems | 3 | None
COM120 | Communication and Advocacy | 3 | None
SOC150 | Sociology of Community | 3 | None
RES100 | Research Methods | 4 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ210 | Constitutional Law | 4 | CRJ102
BUS205 | Business Ethics and Governance | 3 | None
POL201 | State and Local Government | 3 | None
PSY220 | Social Psychology | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ250 | Administrative Law | 3 | CRJ102
EDU230 | Foundations of Public Policy | 3 | None
MIN240 | Servant Leadership Principles | 3 | None
HUM250 | Human Rights and International Law | 4 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ310 | Legal Writing and Research | 4 | CRJ210
POL330 | Legislative Process | 3 | POL201
BUS340 | Nonprofit Law and Management | 3 | None
SOC320 | Sociology of Civil Society | 3 | CHR110
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ360 | Environmental Law and Ethics | 3 | CRJ250
POL370 | Political Communication Strategy | 3 | COM120
SOC380 | Social Justice and Inequality | 4 | SOC150
RES390 | Public Policy Analysis Lab | 3 | RES100
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ420 | Advanced Legal Seminar | 4 | CRJ310
MGT450 | Strategic Planning in Public Policy | 3 | BUS340
POL460 | Global Political Systems | 3 | HUM250
MIN480 | Professionalism and Ethics in Practice | 3 | MIN240
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES390
POL495 | Legislative Simulation | 3 | POL330
CRJ470 | Contemporary Constitutional Debates | 3 | CRJ210
SOC499 | Community Engagement Internship | 3 | None

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, ensuring students have attained both academic proficiency and a comprehensive understanding of their field. Beyond coursework, students are expected to engage in consistent community service hours and participate in regular campus community gatherings to foster spiritual and character growth. These requirements ensure that graduates leave the institution not only with the requisite knowledge to influence law and policy but also with the maturity and ethical consistency required for meaningful, faith-informed service. The integration of academic achievement and spiritual formation forms the bedrock of the student’s readiness to contribute to their communities with integrity and purpose.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Legislative Aide
Policy Analyst
Nonprofit Legal Advocate
Community Development Coordinator
Public Policy Consultant
Civic Engagement Director
Government Relations Liaison

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 Political Law
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years