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Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Science Public Health

Academic unitCollege of Health ScienceTotal credits120Estimated duration4 yearsSource documentBachelor_of_Science_in_Faith_Based_Science_Public_Health.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Science Public Health

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Science Public Health core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health at HBI University is an interdisciplinary program designed to examine the intersection of community health, epidemiology, and health equity. By integrating rigorous scientific inquiry with a commitment to human dignity and stewardship, the curriculum equips students to address complex public health challenges within diverse populations. Students engage with foundational knowledge in biology, social determinants of health, and health policy to develop evidence-based strategies for improving well-being in local and global contexts.

The program emphasizes the application of ethical leadership, cultural humility, and systemic analysis to promote sustainable health initiatives. Through a blend of theoretical coursework and practical engagement, students cultivate the skills necessary to serve as conduits of hope and healing in their communities. This degree fosters a holistic understanding of health as a shared responsibility, rooted in the principles of service and social justice.

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Science Public Health program provides a comprehensive academic foundation by integrating essential general education coursework with intensive study in public health theory, behavioral science, human development, and professional ethics. The curriculum is designed to equip students with specialized knowledge in research methodology, crisis awareness, health referral systems, community-based program development, and faith-integrated support strategies.

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 Science Public Health
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 Health Science
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the impact of social, behavioral, and environmental determinants on community health outcomes.
  • Evaluate epidemiological data to design evidence-based health promotion interventions.
  • Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to public health policy and practice.
  • Communicate complex health information effectively to diverse community stakeholders.
  • Develop strategic initiatives for health education that honor cultural contexts and community needs.
  • Integrate a Christian worldview into the practice of public health through servant leadership and stewardship.
  • Design comprehensive public health projects that demonstrate technical proficiency and social responsibility.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students should demonstrate an alignment with the university’s mission through a personal statement detailing their commitment to ethical service and community engagement, alongside standard academic transcripts for review by the admissions committee. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic and professional experience for the Bachelor of Science in Public Health. This 4-credit initiative requires students to identify an authentic public health issue within a community setting and develop a comprehensive, evidence-based proposal or intervention strategy. Students are expected to synthesize their four years of learning, applying analytical rigor to real-world problems while demonstrating professional communication and project management skills. Substantively, the project challenges students to integrate their faith-informed perspective by articulating how their proposed interventions reflect principles of biblical stewardship, social justice, and the inherent dignity of the human person. Students must demonstrate ethical reasoning in navigating complex community dynamics and articulate how their work fosters long-term health flourishing. The final deliverable includes a written report and a formal presentation that exemplifies both disciplinary mastery and a commitment to character-led, service-oriented practice.

Program Structure

Official program structure

Program Details

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

Semester-by-Semester Curriculum

Official course sequence

Year 1

Semester 1

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
BIO101Biological Foundations4None
View Description

This course covers the basic principles of biology, including cellular structure and human physiology. It emphasizes the complex design of life. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ENG101Academic Writing3None
View Description

Students refine their research and composition skills through structured analytical writing. The focus is on clarity, grammar, and scholarly documentation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PHL101Introduction to Social Philosophy3None
View Description

This course examines foundational theories of social justice, human rights, and the ethical responsibilities of individuals within a pluralistic society. Students analyze various philosophical frameworks that underpin community service and civic engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COM101Public Speaking3None
View Description

Students develop strategies for effective verbal communication in various professional and public settings. Emphasis is on clear message delivery. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
SOC101Introduction to Sociology3None
View Description

This course examines the social structures that shape human behavior and community interactions. Topics include class, race, and group dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MAT150Elementary Statistics3None
View Description

An introduction to data analysis, probability, and hypothesis testing in the health sciences. Students learn to interpret statistical evidence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BIO102Health and Wellness4BIO101
View Description

A study of personal and community health factors including nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being. Focus is on preventative lifestyle choices. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HUM105Ethics in Society3None
View Description

This course explores major ethical theories and their application to contemporary social dilemmas. Students evaluate moral reasoning in practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
PBH201Public Health Foundations3BIO101
View Description

An introduction to the history, philosophy, and basic practices of public health. Students explore the core functions of community systems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PSY201Human Development3None
View Description

This course examines the lifespan stages of human development, focusing on psychological and social changes. It underscores the value of every life stage. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS205World History of Service3None
View Description

A study of historical movements dedicated to social care, medical aid, and community development. It highlights the role of altruistic service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

COU201Helping Skills4None
View Description

Students learn the foundational skills of active listening, empathy, and professional support in care settings. Practice is emphasized. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
PBH210Epidemiology Basics3MAT150
View Description

The study of disease distribution and determinants in populations. Students learn to interpret basic health data sets for community planning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS205Nonprofit Management3None
View Description

An introduction to the operation of nonprofit entities, including finance, grant writing, and board leadership. Focus is on organizational sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC220Community Organizing3SOC101
View Description

This course explores techniques for building community consensus and driving grassroots advocacy. Students examine power structures in social change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES250Research Methods4MAT150
View Description

An introduction to scientific research designs, data collection, and ethical considerations. Students develop an inquiry-based mindset. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
PBH301Environmental Health3BIO102
View Description

A study of how the physical environment impacts human wellness, focusing on water quality, sanitation, and industrial safety. stewardship is emphasized. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PBH305Global Health Initiatives3PBH201
View Description

An examination of health challenges in international settings and the impact of cross-cultural aid programs. Focuses on equity and partnership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

EDU310Health Education Methods3COM101
View Description

Techniques for teaching health awareness to diverse audiences. Students create curriculum modules for community programs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT320Leadership and Stewardship4BUS205
View Description

A study of servant leadership models and the responsible management of organizational resources for the common good. Theory meets practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 6

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
PBH350Health Policy and Law3PBH201
View Description

An analysis of public health laws, regulation, and the political process as it pertains to community well-being. Focuses on social justice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC330Social Determinants of Health3SOC101
View Description

Students investigate how income, education, and geography influence the health of marginalized groups. Emphasis is on compassionate outreach. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC305Sociology of Volunteerism3THE101
View Description

This course explores the sociological impact of volunteerism and non-governmental sector activities on public health and community stability. It investigates how civil society organizations address social needs and foster collective well-being through institutional partnerships. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PBH401Program Evaluation3RES250
View Description

Techniques for assessing the effectiveness of community-based health programs. Students gain skills in qualitative and quantitative analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 3

Semester 7

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
PBH410Health Ethics and Policy3HUM105
View Description

Discussion of complex ethical issues in current public health practice, including research ethics and equitable access to care. Focus is on integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES450Advanced Research Practices4RES250
View Description

Refining research inquiry and methodology for the senior project. Students focus on proposal development and literature review completion. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CAP490Senior Capstone Project4RES450
View Description

The culminating project where students implement a health initiative, presenting results in a final defense. Demonstrates academic and spiritual maturity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

PBH495Public Health Internship3Senior Status
View Description

Professional field experience in a health-focused organization. Focuses on applying theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting under supervision. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 8

3 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
MIN405Applied Servant Leadership3THE101
View Description

Final synthesis course exploring how to remain ethically grounded in the professional workplace while serving the community with humility. Reflection focus. 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 Science Public Health 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
  • BIO101 | Biological Foundations | 4 | None
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing | 3 | None
  • PHL101 | Introduction to Social Philosophy | 3 | None
  • COM101 | Public Speaking | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • MAT150 | Elementary Statistics | 3 | None
  • BIO102 | Health and Wellness | 4 | BIO101
  • HUM105 | Ethics in Society | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PBH201 | Public Health Foundations | 3 | BIO101
  • PSY201 | Human Development | 3 | None
  • HIS205 | World History of Service | 3 | None
  • COU201 | Helping Skills | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PBH210 | Epidemiology Basics | 3 | MAT150
  • BUS205 | Nonprofit Management | 3 | None
  • SOC220 | Community Organizing | 3 | SOC101
  • RES250 | Research Methods | 4 | MAT150
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PBH301 | Environmental Health | 3 | BIO102
  • PBH305 | Global Health Initiatives | 3 | PBH201
  • EDU310 | Health Education Methods | 3 | COM101
  • MGT320 | Leadership and Stewardship | 4 | BUS205
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PBH350 | Health Policy and Law | 3 | PBH201
  • SOC330 | Social Determinants of Health | 3 | SOC101
  • SOC305 | Sociology of Volunteerism | 3 | THE101
  • ELECT1 | Health Elective | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PBH401 | Program Evaluation | 3 | RES250
  • PBH410 | Health Ethics and Policy | 3 | HUM105
  • ELECT2 | Community Health Elective | 3 | None
  • RES450 | Advanced Research Practices | 4 | RES250
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES450
  • PBH495 | Public Health Internship | 3 | Senior Status
  • ELECT3 | Professional Development | 3 | None
  • MIN405 | Applied Servant Leadership | 3 | THE101
  • CAP490Senior Capstone Project4 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To earn the Bachelor of Science in Public Health, candidates must complete 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. This includes the successful completion of all core, elective, and capstone coursework. Academic requirements are paired with an expectation of ongoing spiritual formation, evidenced by participation in community service, institutional chapel programs, and reflection on the integration of faith and vocational service throughout the curriculum.
  • Beyond technical proficiency, graduates are expected to demonstrate the character traits of integrity, empathy, and humility. By aligning academic achievement with a commitment to selfless service, students prepare for vocations that extend beyond personal gain to the flourishing of their neighbors. Graduation signifies a student's readiness to engage the world as a principled leader, equipped to serve with wisdom and grace in diverse professional landscapes.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Community Health Coordinator
  • Health Program Administrator in Nonprofits
  • Public Health Outreach Specialist
  • Health Policy Research Assistant
  • Patient Navigator in Faith-Based Clinics
  • Global Health Missions Field Officer
  • Wellness Program Manager

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