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Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based BS in Substance Use Disorders, Specialization in Nonprofit Management

Academic unitCollege of Addiction CounselingTotal credits120Estimated duration4 yearsSource documentBachelor_of_Science_in_Faith_Based_BS_in_Substance_Use_Disorders__Specialization.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Substance Use Disorders

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Substance Use Disorders and nonprofit management core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Substance Use Disorders with a specialization in Nonprofit Management at HBI University provides a robust interdisciplinary framework for understanding the systemic and personal challenges associated with addiction. The curriculum blends evidence-based behavioral health theories with organizational management principles, equipping students to serve effectively in community-based settings. Students engage with the psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of recovery, preparing for roles that require both compassion and administrative competence.

Beyond technical mastery, this program emphasizes ethical stewardship, servant leadership, and the responsible management of nonprofit resources. By fostering a curriculum that bridges the gap between social support services and organizational sustainability, for faith-based organizations. HBI University prepares graduates to influence recovery systems through informed practice and operational excellence. The program is designed to transform compassionate intent into impactful, professional contribution within the broader societal health framework.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Substance Use Disorders with a specialization in Nonprofit Management combines a foundational general education with a comprehensive study of addiction theory, behavioral science, human development, professional ethics, and research methodology. The curriculum further emphasizes critical competencies in crisis awareness, clinical referral pathways, organizational program development, and community-based support systems within a faith-centered framework.

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 Substance Use Disorders
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 Addiction Counseling
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the psychological, physiological, and social dimensions of substance use disorders using established interdisciplinary frameworks.
  • Evaluate the operational and fiscal requirements necessary to manage a successful, mission-driven nonprofit organization.
  • Apply principles of servant leadership and ethical stewardship to the delivery of community-based social services.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in designing programs that support individual recovery through community engagement and social support systems.
  • Integrate Christian values of empathy, justice, and vocational calling into administrative decision-making processes.
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders, clients, and donors to promote recovery initiatives and organizational health.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Prospective students must hold a high school diploma or equivalent, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants are required to submit an official transcript, a personal statement detailing their motivation for entering the field of addiction studies and nonprofit leadership, and at least one professional or academic letter of recommendation. HBI University evaluates all candidates based on their readiness for rigorous academic study and their commitment to service-oriented vocational goals. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project represents the culmination of the undergraduate experience, requiring students to design a comprehensive program or administrative plan for a fictitious or existing nonprofit recovery agency. This project mandates that students integrate their knowledge of substance use recovery with fiscal, human resource, and strategic planning skills learned throughout the degree. Students must conduct an extensive needs assessment, propose a sustainable service model, and outline a strategy for long-term organizational viability. This project serves as a vehicle for the synthesis of faith-based principles and academic competence. Students are required to articulate how their proposed models reflect biblical stewardship, social justice, and servant leadership, demonstrating a clear understanding of how an organization can support human flourishing while maintaining operational integrity. Successful completion requires a formal presentation and a written portfolio that evidences spiritual maturity, ethical reasoning, and a professional-level mastery of their chosen field.

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

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ENG101Academic Writing and Rhetoric4None
View Description

Focuses on the development of critical thinking and effective communication skills in academic contexts. Emphasizes structured arguments and formal writing conventionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PSY105Introduction to Psychology4None
View Description

Provides an overview of the major theories and findings in psychology, covering developmental, cognitive, and social perspectives. Serves as a foundational course for subsequent behavioral studiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MAT110Quantitative Reasoning3None
View Description

Introduces basic statistical concepts and logical reasoning necessary for evaluating data in social science research. Practical applications focus on organizational data managementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PHI101Foundations of Ethical Decision Making3None
View Description

This course examines major ethical theories and their application to professional dilemmas in the social services sector. Students analyze moral frameworks to address complex challenges in organizational environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
SOC120Introduction to Sociology3None
View Description

Examines the structures and dynamics of social institutions, including the impact of community environments on individual wellbeing. Introduces sociological research methodsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

BUS110Principles of Management3None
View Description

Covers the fundamental concepts of management, including planning, organizing, and leading teams. Explores the role of stewardship in organizational settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

COM105Professional Communication3None
View Description

Develops interpersonal and public speaking skills required for nonprofit leadership. Focuses on active listening and effective delivery of organizational mission statementsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

BIO150Human Biology and Health4None
View Description

Provides an overview of human anatomy and physiology with specific focus on systemic health. Serves as a baseline for understanding the biological impact of substancesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 3

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
COU201Foundations of Addiction Studies4PSY105
View Description

Explores the history, sociological factors, and behavioral patterns associated with substance use. Introduces various recovery models and community-based support structuresThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MGT210Nonprofit Organizational Theory3BUS110
View Description

Analyzes the structure and function of nonprofit entities, focusing on organizational mission alignment and stakeholder engagement. Discusses the role of nonprofits in the social service sectorThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

HIS205Social History of Public Health3None
View Description

Examines the historical development of social policies and their impact on community wellness. Evaluates the response of various social institutions to public health challengesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PSY205Foundations of Interpersonal Care and Wellness3CHR101
View Description

This course explores the principles of supportive listening, empathy, and holistic well-being within a helping relationship. Students learn evidence-based techniques for promoting resilience and individual health in diverse community settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
COU220Community Support Systems3COU201
View Description

Focuses on the delivery of non-clinical recovery support services within local communities. Emphasizes collaborative networking and resource identificationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

BUS240Nonprofit Financial Management3MGT210
View Description

Introduces budgeting, fund accounting, and fiscal accountability for nonprofits. Emphasizes the ethical stewardship of donated resources and organizational transparencyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

RES250Research Methods in Social Services4MAT110
View Description

Introduces quantitative and qualitative research methodologies used to evaluate community programs. Focuses on evidence-based practices in the addiction fieldThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

SOC230Social Justice and Policy3SOC120
View Description

Analyzes current social policies through the lens of justice and fairness. Explores the impact of legislative and economic decisions on vulnerable populationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 5

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
COU310Ethics in Addiction Recovery3COU201
View Description

Examines the ethical dilemmas common in addiction support settings, including privacy, boundary setting, and professional responsibility. Grounds practice in servant leadership principlesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MGT320Grant Writing and Development4MGT210
View Description

Provides practical training in identifying funding sources and writing grant proposals. Focuses on the intersection of organizational mission and donor prioritiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PSY305Developmental Perspectives in Recovery3PSY105
View Description

Analyzes how age and life-stage factors influence substance use and recovery success. Examines strategies for supportive intervention throughout the lifespanThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU315Training and Program Development3COM105
View Description

Focuses on designing educational programs to promote community awareness and prevention. Covers adult learning principles and program evaluation techniquesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 6

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
COU350Crisis Intervention and Advocacy3COU201
View Description

Prepares students to handle crisis situations in non-clinical settings through de-escalation and resource mobilization. Focuses on advocacy for vulnerable individualsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MGT350Human Resource Management in Nonprofits3MGT210
View Description

Covers recruitment, management, and retention of staff and volunteers in mission-driven organizations. Highlights the development of a positive, ethics-centered cultureThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

SOC360Family Systems and Addiction3SOC120
View Description

Explores the systemic impact of addiction on families and how community services can facilitate healing and healthy functioningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

HUM310Cultural Humility in Practice4SOC120
View Description

Focuses on developing the skills necessary to work effectively with diverse populations. Emphasizes listening, empathy, and overcoming personal biases in social service rolesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Year 3

Semester 7

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
COU410Integrated Recovery Models4COU310
View Description

Integrates comprehensive approaches to addiction support, focusing on the collaboration between social, physical, and psychological support networksThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MGT420Strategic Leadership for Nonprofits3MGT320
View Description

Focuses on long-term sustainability and strategic planning in the nonprofit sector. Emphasizes the integration of mission and administrative goalsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PSY405Relapse Prevention and Aftercare3COU201
View Description

Discusses evidence-based aftercare planning and the maintenance of long-term recovery support systems. Focuses on proactive environmental strategiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

SOC401Professionalism, Service, and Social Responsibility3CHR101
View Description

This course analyzes the intersection of individual professional roles and collective social contribution within the nonprofit sector. Students engage in critical reflection on the societal impact of community service and civic engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 8

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
CAP490Senior Capstone Project4Senior standing
View Description

Requires the design of a comprehensive, sustainable nonprofit program. Students integrate disciplinary knowledge with faith-based values to produce a viable social service planThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MGT450Nonprofit Governance and Law3MGT320
View Description

Examines the legal and regulatory responsibilities of nonprofit leadership. Covers risk management and the ethical obligations of board and staffThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

COU450Professionalism and Ethical Practice3COU310
View Description

Prepares students for transition into the workplace with an emphasis on ethics, boundaries, and career sustainability. Reviews industry standards for professional conductThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

SOC420Global Perspectives on Community Health3SOC360
View Description

Analyzes community health trends from a global perspective, examining how different cultures address addiction. Compares models of social service and resource allocationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Major / Core Requirements

Major and core requirements

General education | 36 credit hours

  • Substance Use Disorders and nonprofit management 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 | 4 | None
  • PSY105 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
  • MAT110 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
  • PHI101 | Foundations of Ethical Decision Making | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC120 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • BUS110 | Principles of Management | 3 | None
  • COM105 | Professional Communication | 3 | None
  • BIO150 | Human Biology and Health | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU201 | Foundations of Addiction Studies | 4 | PSY105
  • MGT210 | Nonprofit Organizational Theory | 3 | BUS110
  • HIS205 | Social History of Public Health | 3 | None
  • PSY205 | Foundations of Interpersonal Care and Wellness | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU220 | Community Support Systems | 3 | COU201
  • BUS240 | Nonprofit Financial Management | 3 | MGT210
  • RES250 | Research Methods in Social Services | 4 | MAT110
  • SOC230 | Social Justice and Policy | 3 | SOC120
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU310 | Ethics in Addiction Recovery | 3 | COU201
  • MGT320 | Grant Writing and Development | 4 | MGT210
  • PSY305 | Developmental Perspectives in Recovery | 3 | PSY105
  • EDU315 | Training and Program Development | 3 | COM105
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU350 | Crisis Intervention and Advocacy | 3 | COU201
  • MGT350 | Human Resource Management in Nonprofits | 3 | MGT210
  • SOC360 | Family Systems and Addiction | 3 | SOC120
  • HUM310 | Cultural Humility in Practice | 4 | SOC120
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU410 | Integrated Recovery Models | 4 | COU310
  • MGT420 | Strategic Leadership for Nonprofits | 3 | MGT320
  • PSY405 | Relapse Prevention and Aftercare | 3 | COU201
  • SOC401 | Professionalism, Service, and Social Responsibility | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | Senior standing
  • MGT450 | Nonprofit Governance and Law | 3 | MGT320
  • COU450 | Professionalism and Ethical Practice | 3 | COU310
  • SOC420 | Global Perspectives on Community Health | 3 | SOC360
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project — 4 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To graduate with the Bachelor of Arts in Substance Use Disorders, students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. All courses must be completed according to the degree plan, including the successful passing of the Senior Capstone Project. In addition to academic achievement, students are expected to complete 40 hours of faith-informed community service and attend designated spiritual formation workshops each semester, ensuring that their intellectual development is matched by growth in character and integrity.
  • Graduation at HBI University recognizes both scholarly accomplishment and the student's preparation for a life of vocational witness and service. By integrating professional standards with a Christian worldview, graduates demonstrate that they are not only academically proficient but also prepared to enter the workforce as individuals of moral character who are dedicated to the betterment of their communities through compassionate and ethical action.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Nonprofit Program Coordinator
  • Addiction Support Services Case Manager
  • Community Outreach Specialist
  • Grant Writer for Health and Human Services
  • Volunteer Services Administrator
  • Recovery Center Operations Manager
  • Faith-Based Social Initiative Developer

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 Substance Use Disorders
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years