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Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Political Science, Specialization in Governance Civic Engagement

Academic unitCollege of Science and Social ScienceTotal credits120Estimated duration4 yearsSource documentBachelor_of_Science_in_Faith_Based_Political_Science__Specialization_in_Governan.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Political Science

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Political Science core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Political Science with a specialization in Governance and Civic Engagement offers a rigorous academic framework for understanding the mechanisms of political systems through the lens of ethical responsibility and servant leadership. Students engage with foundational theories of political philosophy, public policy, and institutional administration, while critically examining the intersections of civic duty, constitutional frameworks, and historical governance models. By grounding academic inquiry in principles of stewardship and justice, the program equips students to analyze complex socio-political challenges with integrity. Through coursework and experiential learning, students explore how individuals and institutions contribute to the common good within diverse political landscapes. The curriculum emphasizes the application of political theory to real-world governance, fostering a commitment to service and ethical influence within public and private sectors. This program prepares graduates to operate as principled agents of change who understand the complexities of democratic processes and the moral weight of leadership in society.

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Political Science, Specialization in Governance Civic Engagement combines foundational general education with a comprehensive study of political theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support.

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 Political Science
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 Science and Social Science
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze foundational political theories and governance models through a critical, ethical lens.
  • Evaluate the impact of policy decisions on community well-being and institutional integrity.
  • Integrate biblical stewardship and ethical reasoning into the development of public policy and governance strategies.
  • Demonstrate servant leadership by designing collaborative initiatives that address civic and societal challenges.
  • Communicate complex political arguments effectively across diverse stakeholders and cultural contexts.
  • Interpret the constitutional and legal frameworks that shape contemporary political life.
  • Develop practical skills for civic engagement that prioritize reconciliation and community service.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants for the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Political Science are expected to possess a high school diploma or equivalent, demonstrating a solid foundation in social sciences and humanities. Admissions criteria include a review of secondary school transcripts, a personal statement detailing the applicant's commitment to community service and academic goals, and an interview with faculty to assess alignment with the institution's values and educational mission. The program values candidates who show a capacity for critical inquiry and an earnest desire to integrate academic rigor with principled, faith-informed public service. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the degree, requiring students to synthesize their learning in political science, civic engagement, and ethical leadership. Students identify a significant public or community-based issue, conduct primary and secondary research, and develop a comprehensive strategy for institutional or social reform. This project is worth 4 credit hours and requires extensive literature review, data analysis, and the development of actionable policy recommendations that honor principles of stewardship and justice. The deliverables include a formal research thesis and a public presentation demonstrating how their proposed solutions reflect an integration of political expertise and character-informed service. This project bridges the gap between academic theory and practical application, tasking students to demonstrate that their disciplinary competence is matched by a commitment to the common good. Through this work, students provide evidence of their spiritual and professional maturity, articulating how their faith-based worldview informs their approach to governance and leadership in their future vocations.

Program Structure

Official program structure

Program Details

  • Total Credits: 120
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Degree Level: Bachelor

Semester-by-Semester Curriculum

Official course sequence

Year 1

Semester 1

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
POL101Introduction to Political Science3None
View Description

This course examines the foundational concepts and structures of political systems. It emphasizes the history and development of political theory. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ENG101College Composition3None
View Description

Students develop skills in formal research writing and rhetorical analysis. The course focuses on clarity, structure, and academic argumentation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS105Western Civilization and Ethics3None
View Description

An overview of the intellectual and social currents that shaped Western society. Focus is placed on moral development and historical progress. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC101Foundations of Personal Development and Civic Identity3None
View Description

This course examines the psychological and sociological factors that shape individual identity and personal development within a civic context. Students analyze how personal values translate into community participation and leadership effectiveness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
POL110American Government and Constitutional Law3POL101
View Description

An analysis of the constitutional framework and the branches of the U.S. government. Special emphasis is placed on civil rights and institutional responsibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC101Introduction to Sociology3None
View Description

A study of societal dynamics, human interaction, and group behavior within communities. This course provides a baseline for understanding social structures. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MAT120Quantitative Reasoning for Social Sciences4None
View Description

An introduction to statistical analysis and data interpretation in the political context. Students gain skills in empirical research methods. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COM105Professional Communication2None
View Description

This course focuses on interpersonal, public, and digital communication strategies. Students learn to articulate complex ideas effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
POL201Political Philosophy3POL101
View Description

A study of the great political thinkers and their influence on contemporary governance. Students analyze the morality of power and law. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT201Nonprofit Management3None
View Description

This course covers the administration of mission-driven organizations. Topics include governance, stewardship, and effective leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS210History of Civic Engagement3None
View Description

An examination of social movements and community service throughout history. Students study how grassroots action shapes policy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PSY201Social Psychology3SOC101
View Description

Exploration of how social groups influence individual decision-making and behavior. Emphasis is placed on group dynamics and conflict resolution. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
POL220Public Policy Analysis3POL110
View Description

Students learn to identify, draft, and evaluate public policies. The course focuses on evidence-based problem solving for public concerns. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS250Ethics in Professional Leadership3None
View Description

Investigation into the intersection of personal integrity and institutional leadership. Students practice ethical decision-making frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES200Research Methods3MAT120
View Description

Introduction to qualitative and quantitative research designs for social sciences. Students learn to critically evaluate data sources. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC220Principles of Community Engagement and Social Impact3CHR101
View Description

This course explores the history, theory, and practice of community engagement and social volunteerism within the public and nonprofit sectors. Students analyze methods for assessing community needs and mobilizing resources for sustainable social change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
POL301Comparative Government3POL201
View Description

Analysis of various global governance models and civic participation patterns. Students examine structural differences between political systems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

POL310International Relations and Human Rights3POL101
View Description

Study of diplomacy, globalization, and human rights through a lens of justice. Students analyze international institutional responses to crises. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

EDU305Community Organizing and Education3SOC101
View Description

Techniques for educating communities on policy issues and fostering active citizenship. Focus is placed on capacity-building. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS310Strategic Planning for Social Impact3MGT201
View Description

Development of long-term organizational goals that prioritize social contribution. Students learn project management and outcome measurement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
POL320Advocacy and Grassroots Mobilization3POL220
View Description

Practical study of how groups organize to influence legislation and public discourse. Techniques for communication and awareness are emphasized. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CRJ305Law and Social Justice3POL110
View Description

A study of the legal systems and their impact on equity and restorative justice. Students examine how law serves the community. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MIN350Servant Leadership in Practice3CHR101
View Description

An examination of leadership models that prioritize the needs of others. Students apply these concepts to their professional growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HUM330Urban Culture and Civil Society3SOC101
View Description

Analysis of urban social systems and their role in fostering civil society. Students investigate local governance issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
POL401Advanced Constitutional Seminar4POL110
View Description

In-depth review of significant judicial outcomes and their impact on contemporary society. Critical analysis of legal and political precedent is emphasized. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

POL410Legislative Processes3POL110
View Description

How ideas become law: understanding the machinery of legislative change. Emphasis on lobbyist activities, committee structures, and floor voting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT420Financial Stewardship for Nonprofits3MGT201
View Description

Budgeting, fundraising ethics, and financial transparency in the non-profit sector. Students learn how to manage resources for social impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COM405Public Speaking and Persuasion2COM105
View Description

Advanced training in formal presentation and debating political topics. Focus on clarity, tone, and logical consistency. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 8

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
CAP490Senior Capstone Project4RES200, POL401
View Description

Students research a current political or social issue and produce a comprehensive strategy for improvement. This project requires an integration of ethics, research, and civic strategy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

POL450Political Ethics and Public Life3POL401
View Description

A culminating look at the moral requirements of leadership in political spheres. Students examine current debates through an ethical lens. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS480Community Partnerships and Development3MGT201
View Description

Advanced studies in networking between public and private sectors for social benefit. Emphasis on coalition building and resource allocation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR499Professionalism and Vocation3CHR101, MIN350
View Description

A final synthesis of spiritual formation and professional preparation. Students outline their personal trajectory for ongoing service. 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 Science 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
  • POL101 | Introduction to Political Science | 3 | None
  • ENG101 | College Composition | 3 | None
  • HIS105 | Western Civilization and Ethics | 3 | None
  • SOC101 | Foundations of Personal Development and Civic Identity | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • POL110 | American Government and Constitutional Law | 3 | POL101
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • MAT120 | Quantitative Reasoning for Social Sciences | 4 | None
  • COM105 | Professional Communication | 2 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • POL201 | Political Philosophy | 3 | POL101
  • MGT201 | Nonprofit Management | 3 | None
  • HIS210 | History of Civic Engagement | 3 | None
  • PSY201 | Social Psychology | 3 | SOC101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • POL220 | Public Policy Analysis | 3 | POL110
  • BUS250 | Ethics in Professional Leadership | 3 | None
  • RES200 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT120
  • SOC220 | Principles of Community Engagement and Social Impact | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • POL301 | Comparative Government | 3 | POL201
  • POL310 | International Relations and Human Rights | 3 | POL101
  • EDU305 | Community Organizing and Education | 3 | SOC101
  • BUS310 | Strategic Planning for Social Impact | 3 | MGT201
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • POL320 | Advocacy and Grassroots Mobilization | 3 | POL220
  • CRJ305 | Law and Social Justice | 3 | POL110
  • MIN350 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | CHR101
  • HUM330 | Urban Culture and Civil Society | 3 | SOC101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • POL401 | Advanced Constitutional Seminar | 4 | POL110
  • POL410 | Legislative Processes | 3 | POL110
  • MGT420 | Financial Stewardship for Nonprofits | 3 | MGT201
  • COM405 | Public Speaking and Persuasion | 2 | COM105
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES200, POL401
  • POL450 | Political Ethics and Public Life | 3 | POL401
  • BUS480 | Community Partnerships and Development | 3 | MGT201
  • CHR499 | Professionalism and Vocation | 3 | CHR101, MIN350
  • CAP490Senior Capstone Project4 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requirements for this program include the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students must satisfy all core and elective requirements, including the successful completion of the Senior Capstone Project. Beyond academic achievement, graduation signifies a demonstrated readiness for service, supported by mandatory participation in institutional spiritual formation activities and community engagement hours. The program requires students to reflect on their ethical integrity and professional growth throughout their tenure, ensuring that their intellectual attainments are grounded in a sincere commitment to servant leadership and the betterment of their communities. This holistic approach ensures that graduates leave not only with theoretical knowledge but with a character-driven readiness to act as salt and light in their professional fields.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Public Policy Analyst
  • Nonprofit Program Administrator
  • Civic Engagement Coordinator
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Community Advocacy Director
  • Political Consultant
  • Government Relations Officer
  • Public Relations Strategist

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