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Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Legal Science, Laws that Govern Non-Profit Organization

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

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Legal Science, Laws that Govern Non-Profit Organization

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Legal and non-profit administration core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Legal Science provides a comprehensive foundation in the regulatory, administrative, and ethical frameworks governing non-profit organizations. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students examine the intersection of civil law, organizational governance, and social responsibility within the context of mission-driven institutions. The curriculum is designed to foster a rigorous understanding of the statutory requirements and best practices necessary to lead and manage entities dedicated to public benefit and charitable service. By integrating legal analysis with a focus on ethical stewardship and servant leadership, the program equips graduates to navigate the complexities of organizational compliance while adhering to principles of integrity and accountability. Students engage with foundational legal concepts, human resource management, fiscal transparency, and strategic planning, ensuring they are prepared to address the operational challenges inherent in the nonprofit sector. This program emphasizes the cultivation of analytical skills and sound judgment, enabling students to serve as effective administrators and advocates within their professional spheres.

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Legal Science, Laws that Govern Non-Profit Organization program combines rigorous general education with a comprehensive study of legal theory, ethical compliance, organizational behavioral science, human development, research methodology, crisis awareness, referral protocols, strategic program development, and community-based support systems within a faith-based 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 Science. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation: B.S. in Faith-Based Legal Science, Laws that Govern Non-Profit Organization
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 legal frameworks and regulatory requirements governing the operations and tax-exempt status of non-profit organizations.
Evaluate ethical dilemmas within organizational leadership through the application of normative frameworks and institutional values.
Apply principles of sound financial stewardship and fiscal accountability to ensure the longevity of charitable programs.
Design effective administrative strategies that uphold organizational mission while maintaining compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
Demonstrate servant leadership competencies by fostering collaborative environments and promoting community-oriented goals.
Communicate complex legal and administrative concepts clearly and professionally to diverse stakeholders.
Integrate professional competence with a commitment to integrity, humility, and service to society.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent recognized credential with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students should submit a statement of purpose outlining their commitment to ethical service, academic transcripts, and two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with their character and academic potential. All applicants must demonstrate readiness for university-level coursework through proficient writing and critical thinking skills as assessed during the application process. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience of the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Legal Science. It requires students to design a comprehensive governance and legal compliance manual for a specific non-profit entity, addressing areas such as board governance, volunteer management, and fiscal transparency. This project evaluates the student's ability to synthesize theoretical knowledge with practical application in a complex, real-world scenario. The project is weighted at 4 credit hours and requires a significant synthesis of research, legal analysis, and strategic planning. Beyond technical proficiency, students are expected to articulate how their proposed organizational structure reflects principles of biblical stewardship, servant leadership, and ethical integrity. By defending their work before a faculty panel, students demonstrate both the academic competence necessary for professional practice and a commitment to the character development required for faith-informed service. This project bridges the transition from undergraduate study to professional ministry or community service, ensuring graduates are prepared to model high standards of administrative excellence.

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 Composition	3	None
View Description This course focuses on developing essential writing skills, rhetorical analysis, and critical research techniques. It emphasizes clear communication and structured arguments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MAT110	Quantitative Reasoning	3	None
View Description Students explore mathematical applications including statistics, data analysis, and basic algebraic principles. The course emphasizes logical problem solving and interpretation of numerical evidence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS120	Foundations of Western Law	3	None
View Description This course examines the historical development of legal systems and the philosophical underpinnings of justice. It tracks the evolution of statutes and common law. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PHI105	Introduction to Professional Ethics	3	None
View Description This course examines moral philosophy, ethical theory, and decision-making frameworks within professional and organizational settings. Students analyze complex dilemmas using deontological, consequentialist, and virtue ethics paradigms. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
BUS150	Foundations of Non-Profit Management	3	None
View Description An overview of the non-profit sector, focusing on organizational structures, stakeholders, and the role of mission statements. Students analyze the unique challenges of mission-driven environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM120	Interpersonal Communication	3	None
View Description This course covers the dynamics of verbal and non-verbal communication, conflict resolution, and active listening. Emphasis is placed on building constructive professional relationships. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY110	Foundations of Psychology	3	None
View Description An introductory survey of human behavior, cognitive processes, and social interactions. The course encourages an understanding of how individuals function within groups and organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MIN100	Servant Leadership Principles	3	None
View Description This course examines the theory and practice of servant leadership, emphasizing humility, empathy, and organizational development. Students explore how leaders serve the community by empowering others. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ210	Introduction to Civil Law	4	HIS120
View Description This course provides an overview of civil law principles, including torts, contracts, and property rights within a regulated society. Students learn to interpret legal documents and identify compliance issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS220	Principles of Financial Accounting	3	MAT110
View Description Focusing on fiscal transparency, this course covers budgeting, financial reporting, and the audit process for non-profits. It stresses the importance of accountability in resource management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC230	Social Institutions and Community	3	None
View Description This course investigates the role of social institutions in supporting marginalized populations. Students analyze how community agencies serve as catalysts for social health. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
FIN205	Principles of Non-Profit Resource Allocation	3	THE105
View Description This course covers the systematic management, budgeting, and fiscal responsibility required for charitable and social entities. Topics include asset tracking, financial reporting standards, and strategic long-term planning for institutional growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
BUS250	Non-Profit Human Resource Management	3	BUS150
View Description Examines recruitment, retention, and legal requirements for personnel and volunteer management. Students discuss the ethical treatment of employees and volunteers. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES280	Research Methods for Social Policy	3	MAT110
View Description Introduction to quantitative and qualitative research tools used to evaluate program effectiveness and community needs. Students develop the ability to interpret empirical data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HUM240	Cultural Competency and Diversity	3	None
View Description Focuses on understanding diverse perspectives and serving diverse communities with respect and sensitivity. Students learn to promote inclusivity in organizational decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU210	Professional Writing for Policy	3	ENG101
View Description Training in the preparation of grants, policy manuals, and official organizational documentation. Emphasis is on precision, clarity, and legal adherence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

13 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
CRJ310	Non-Profit Law and Tax Compliance	4	CRJ210
View Description Deep dive into 501(c)(3) requirements, federal regulations, and state filing mandates for non-profits. Students learn to maintain organizational status through adherence to tax and reporting laws. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MGT320	Strategic Planning for Organizations	3	BUS150
View Description Covers long-term visioning, risk management, and operational assessment. Students learn to align daily activities with overarching mission objectives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC340	Public Policy Analysis	3	RES280
View Description An examination of how legislation impacts social service delivery. Students analyze the implications of public policy for charitable organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS330	Organizational Leadership and Professional Standards	3	CHR205
View Description This course explores the intersection of personal character development and professional accountability within the non-profit sector. Students investigate best practices for transparency, institutional loyalty, and ethical conduct in public-facing roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
BUS350	Ethics in Non-Profit Governance	3	BUS150
View Description Discusses board governance, fiduciary duty, and conflicts of interest. The course emphasizes the creation of ethical guidelines for organization leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CRJ360	Contract and Liability Law	3	CRJ210
View Description Explores the legal aspects of agreements, partnerships, and organizational liability. Students learn to assess and mitigate risks within the non-profit context. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM370	Organizational Conflict Management	3	COM120
View Description Techniques for resolving disputes within teams and with external partners. Focuses on constructive negotiation and mediation strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU380	Fundraising and Donor Relations Law	3	BUS220
View Description Examines the legal requirements for fundraising and donor disclosure. Students study the ethical nuances of soliciting and managing charitable contributions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

12 credits

Code	Course Title	Credits	Prerequisite
MGT410	Operational Leadership	3	MGT320
View Description Advanced leadership strategies focused on team building, change management, and operational efficiency. Emphasizes motivating staff in mission-centric environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CRJ420	Advocacy and Social Justice Law	3	SOC340
View Description Study of the role of advocacy within the legal system. Students evaluate how non-profits represent the interests of their constituents while remaining compliant. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS430	Financial Oversight and Sustainability	3	BUS220
View Description Deep analysis of long-term sustainability models for non-profits. Includes study of endowments, grants, and fiscal planning for future stability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES440	Research Seminar in Legal Policy	3	RES280
View Description Students conduct original research on a contemporary legal issue affecting the non-profit sector. Preparation for the senior capstone project. 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	RES440
View Description The culminating project where students integrate their entire learning experience to create a comprehensive governance and compliance plan. Students present their findings as evidence of professional and character readiness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MGT450	Contemporary Trends in Non-Profits	3	MGT320
View Description Addresses current challenges, including digital transformation, data privacy, and global engagement. Students analyze how organizations adapt to a changing environment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
CRJ460	Ethics in Regulatory Affairs	3	BUS350
View Description An advanced study of how organizations maintain high ethical standards while navigating complex regulatory environments. Focuses on preventing misconduct through internal controls. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
LAW470	Applied Professional Practice and Compliance	3	MIN330
View Description This course focuses on the practical application of legal standards and regulatory compliance within the daily operations of non-profit entities. It emphasizes the integration of legal knowledge, conflict resolution skills, and stakeholder engagement in diverse community environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Major / Core Requirements

Major and core requirements

General education | 36 credit hours

Legal and non-profit administration 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
MAT110 | Quantitative Reasoning | 3 | None
HIS120 | Foundations of Western Law | 3 | None
PHI105 | Introduction to Professional Ethics | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
BUS150 | Foundations of Non-Profit Management | 3 | None
COM120 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
PSY110 | Foundations of Psychology | 3 | None
MIN100 | Servant Leadership Principles | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ210 | Introduction to Civil Law | 4 | HIS120
BUS220 | Principles of Financial Accounting | 3 | MAT110
SOC230 | Social Institutions and Community | 3 | None
FIN205 | Principles of Non-Profit Resource Allocation | 3 | THE105
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
BUS250 | Non-Profit Human Resource Management | 3 | BUS150
RES280 | Research Methods for Social Policy | 3 | MAT110
HUM240 | Cultural Competency and Diversity | 3 | None
EDU210 | Professional Writing for Policy | 3 | ENG101
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CRJ310 | Non-Profit Law and Tax Compliance | 4 | CRJ210
MGT320 | Strategic Planning for Organizations | 3 | BUS150
SOC340 | Public Policy Analysis | 3 | RES280
BUS330 | Organizational Leadership and Professional Standards | 3 | CHR205
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
BUS350 | Ethics in Non-Profit Governance | 3 | BUS150
CRJ360 | Contract and Liability Law | 3 | CRJ210
COM370 | Organizational Conflict Management | 3 | COM120
EDU380 | Fundraising and Donor Relations Law | 3 | BUS220
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
MGT410 | Operational Leadership | 3 | MGT320
CRJ420 | Advocacy and Social Justice Law | 3 | SOC340
BUS430 | Financial Oversight and Sustainability | 3 | BUS220
RES440 | Research Seminar in Legal Policy | 3 | RES280
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES440
MGT450 | Contemporary Trends in Non-Profits | 3 | MGT320
CRJ460 | Ethics in Regulatory Affairs | 3 | BUS350
LAW470 | Applied Professional Practice and Compliance | 3 | MIN330

CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project — 4 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

Graduation requires the completion of 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. Students must successfully complete all core and elective coursework, including the mandatory Senior Capstone Project. Beyond academic achievement, the institution requires participation in community service initiatives, regular attendance at chapel or community gatherings, and engagement in spiritual formation activities designed to foster character growth and professional maturation. Graduation signifies not only the acquisition of technical knowledge but also the cultivation of an ethical foundation that prepares students for lives of faithful service. The faculty ensures that candidates demonstrate readiness for professional roles by exhibiting a consistent commitment to integrity, accountability, and the mission-focused service expected of effective organizational stewards.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Non-Profit Program Administrator
Community Outreach Coordinator
Compliance Officer for Charitable Organizations
Operations Manager in Mission-Driven Agencies
Grant Management Specialist
Non-Profit Board Governance Consultant
Development and Fundraising 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.S. in Faith-Based Legal Science, Laws that Govern Non-Profit Organization
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years