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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Public Safety, Emergency Preparedness

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

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Public Safety, Emergency Preparedness

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-based public safety and emergency preparedness core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness is an interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the analytical, administrative, and strategic competencies required to navigate complex public safety environments. Rooted in the principles of stewardship and servant leadership, the curriculum explores the intersection of disaster management, risk assessment, and organizational ethics within a global and local context. Students examine the multifaceted nature of emergency response while cultivating a professional ethos defined by integrity and a commitment to the common good.

The program emphasizes a holistic approach to public service, challenging students to integrate academic rigor with the practical realities of community support during crises. By blending theoretical frameworks of public policy with practical application in disaster mitigation, the curriculum ensures that graduates are prepared to address the needs of diverse populations. The degree facilitates critical thinking, effective communication, and collaborative decision-making, ensuring that future practitioners can serve with wisdom, compassion, and resilience.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Public Safety, Emergency Preparedness program integrates rigorous general education coursework with a comprehensive study of public safety theory, behavioral science, human development, and ethical frameworks. The curriculum emphasizes research, crisis awareness, service referral, program development, and community-based support strategies within a faith-based context.

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 Public Safety, Emergency Preparedness
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 complexities of local, state, and federal emergency management frameworks.
Evaluate the impact of policy decisions on community safety and disaster recovery efforts.
Design comprehensive emergency mitigation and preparedness strategies for diverse organizational contexts.
Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to navigate the moral complexities of crisis response.
Demonstrate effective communication skills to coordinate multi-agency operations during emergency incidents.
Integrate principles of servant leadership and stewardship into professional public safety practices.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.5, and a personal statement reflecting on their commitment to service and ethical community leadership. Candidates are evaluated on their academic readiness, character references, and potential to contribute to the university’s mission of faith-informed excellence. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the final, integrative milestone for the degree, requiring students to research and design a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan for a specific community or faith-based organization. This project mandates that students demonstrate both academic mastery of emergency management theories and the capacity to apply ethical reasoning in real-world scenarios. Students must produce a formal project report, a strategic contingency document, and an oral defense that articulates how their proposed solution upholds the values of servant leadership and stewardship. Beyond technical competence, the capstone provides a vehicle for spiritual and character reflection. Students are required to synthesize their previous coursework with a deep, critical analysis of their personal professional calling, demonstrating how a Christian worldview shapes their responsibility toward the vulnerable. By connecting their disciplinary project to faith-informed perspectives on justice and community welfare, students show they are ready to serve as ethical, transformative leaders in the public sphere.

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 foundational skills in clear, persuasive communication and logical argumentation. Students practice crafting research-based papers that adhere to standard academic conventions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC101	Introduction to Sociology	3	None
View Description An exploration of human society, social structures, and the dynamics of community interaction. Students examine how social forces influence individual and organizational behavior. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC105	Introduction to Social Institutions	3	None
View Description This course examines the role of social institutions in shaping community dynamics, civic engagement, and societal structures. Students analyze how these institutions function within the public safety and emergency management sectors. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MAT110	Quantitative Reasoning	3	None
View Description Focuses on mathematical reasoning and the analysis of quantitative data in real-world contexts. Topics include statistics, probability, and basic logical modeling. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ101	Introduction to Public Safety	3	None
View Description Provides an overview of the public safety system, including the roles of law enforcement, fire services, and emergency management. The course explores the history and function of these systems in modern society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY101	Introduction to Psychology	3	None
View Description An introduction to the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Students explore key theories related to human development and social interaction. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HUM110	History of Western Culture	3	None
View Description A study of major cultural and historical developments that have shaped modern societal values. Emphasis is placed on the progression of ethical and philosophical thought. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM120	Interpersonal Communication	3	None
View Description Examines the principles of effective communication in dyadic and group settings. Students develop practical skills for conflict resolution and empathetic engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ210	Emergency Management Foundations	4	CRJ101
View Description Covers the four phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Students examine standard operating procedures and interagency cooperation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BIO200	Environmental Science	3	None
View Description Analyzes the scientific principles of the environment and natural disasters. Focus is placed on how human systems interact with natural systems and ecosystems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS210	Organizational Leadership	3	None
View Description Explores the theory and practice of servant leadership within complex institutional structures. Students analyze management strategies that promote morale and efficacy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC201	Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility	3	THE101
View Description This course explores the theoretical foundations of professional ethics and their application within complex social and organizational settings. It addresses issues of accountability, decision-making, and moral duty in community-facing roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ250	Disaster Mitigation and Planning	3	CRJ210
View Description Examines strategies for reducing the impact of disasters through risk assessment and infrastructure hardening. Students develop critical skills for technical planning and forecasting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES250	Research Methods in Social Sciences	3	MAT110
View Description Introduces qualitative and quantitative research techniques relevant to public safety and social issues. Emphasis is on methodology and data integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MGT280	Public Policy Analysis	3	None
View Description A critical look at the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of public policy. Students explore the intersection of legislation, economics, and social need. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU220	Community Outreach and Education	3	None
View Description Focuses on the development of educational programs for public awareness and community preparedness. Students learn to design curriculum and communication strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ310	Incident Management Systems	4	CRJ210
View Description In-depth study of the Incident Command System (ICS) and multi-agency coordination during major incidents. Students engage in simulation-based learning for emergency leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COU320	Crisis Intervention and Support	3	PSY101
View Description Examines psychological approaches to supporting individuals and communities during crises. Focuses on trauma-informed care and providing community support services. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS350	Stewardship and Resource Management	3	None
View Description Explores the ethical allocation of organizational resources and long-term sustainability planning. Focuses on fiscal responsibility and the stewardship of community assets. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS330	Historical Perspectives on Public Policy	3	None
View Description Analyzes key historical developments in American public policy and their influence on safety and social welfare systems. Investigates patterns of institutional development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ380	Risk Assessment and Mitigation	3	CRJ250
View Description Advanced training in identifying hazards and vulnerabilities within community and institutional systems. Students apply data analysis to prioritize safety initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS390	Legal and Regulatory Environments	3	None
View Description A comprehensive review of the legal frameworks governing public safety, safety compliance, and organizational accountability. Students learn to navigate institutional liability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC340	Diversity and Public Safety	3	SOC101
View Description Explores the relationship between cultural diversity and effective emergency response. Examines how to build trust and inclusivity in community safety operations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MGT320	Strategic Communication and Media	3	COM120
View Description Focuses on public relations and effective media communication during crisis events. Emphasizes transparency, accuracy, and building community trust. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ420	International Emergency Management	3	CRJ310
View Description Explores global frameworks for disaster response and the role of international organizations. Students compare regional approaches to safety and sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS410	Ethics in Professional Practice	3	MIN201
View Description An advanced seminar on professional conduct, ethical dilemmas, and institutional accountability. Students analyze case studies involving moral decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CRJ430	Emerging Threats and Technology	3	CRJ380
View Description An investigation into modern technological threats and the use of digital tools for public safety. Focuses on cyber-security and technological resilience. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MGT440	Nonprofit Administration	3	BUS210
View Description Introduces the unique governance, funding, and programmatic needs of nonprofit organizations. Focuses on sustainability and mission fulfillment. 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	All Core Courses
View Description Culminating project requiring the synthesis of emergency management theories, ethical reasoning, and community application. Students produce a strategic disaster response plan for a designated partner. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CRJ450	Advanced Leadership Seminar	3	BUS210
View Description Refines the student's personal philosophy of leadership and professional growth. Emphasizes long-term commitment to community well-being and institutional service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC410	Social Justice and Vulnerable Populations	3	SOC101
View Description Analyzes the impacts of crisis events on disadvantaged communities. Examines frameworks for equitable service and advocacy within public systems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
POL480	Civic Engagement and Public Advocacy	3	MIN201
View Description This course investigates the intersection of public policy, community advocacy, and personal professional practice in the modern public square. It emphasizes the strategies required for effective participation in governance and service-oriented leadership. 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 public safety and emergency preparedness 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
SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
SOC105 | Introduction to Social Institutions | 3 | None
MAT110 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ101 | Introduction to Public Safety | 3 | None
PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
HUM110 | History of Western Culture | 3 | None
COM120 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ210 | Emergency Management Foundations | 4 | CRJ101
BIO200 | Environmental Science | 3 | None
BUS210 | Organizational Leadership | 3 | None
SOC201 | Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility | 3 | THE101
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ250 | Disaster Mitigation and Planning | 3 | CRJ210
RES250 | Research Methods in Social Sciences | 3 | MAT110
MGT280 | Public Policy Analysis | 3 | None
EDU220 | Community Outreach and Education | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ310 | Incident Management Systems | 4 | CRJ210
COU320 | Crisis Intervention and Support | 3 | PSY101
BUS350 | Stewardship and Resource Management | 3 | None
HIS330 | Historical Perspectives on Public Policy | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ380 | Risk Assessment and Mitigation | 3 | CRJ250
BUS390 | Legal and Regulatory Environments | 3 | None
SOC340 | Diversity and Public Safety | 3 | SOC101
MGT320 | Strategic Communication and Media | 3 | COM120
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ420 | International Emergency Management | 3 | CRJ310
BUS410 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 3 | MIN201
CRJ430 | Emerging Threats and Technology | 3 | CRJ380
MGT440 | Nonprofit Administration | 3 | BUS210
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | All Core Courses
CRJ450 | Advanced Leadership Seminar | 3 | BUS210
SOC410 | Social Justice and Vulnerable Populations | 3 | SOC101
POL480 | Civic Engagement and Public Advocacy | 3 | MIN201

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 and the satisfactory submission of the Senior Capstone Project. Students must also complete all mandatory core, general education, and elective requirements within the designated academic timeframe. Academic excellence is expected, alongside active participation in university-wide spiritual formation initiatives and service-learning opportunities that foster character development.
Furthermore, students must demonstrate alignment with the university’s behavioral expectations, which emphasize integrity, humility, and a commitment to service as essential components of one's professional identity. Graduation is viewed not only as the culmination of academic labor but as an initiation into a lifetime of faith-informed service. Through these requirements, the university ensures that each graduate is academically proficient and spiritually prepared to practice their vocation with ethical consistency and profound concern for their neighbor.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Emergency Management Coordinator
Nonprofit Disaster Relief Specialist
Community Liaison for Public Safety Agencies
Faith-Based Institutional Security Director
Public Policy Analyst
Risk Mitigation Consultant
Humanitarian Aid Coordinator

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 Public Safety, Emergency Preparedness
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years