← Programs CatalogAuthoritative HBIU program data

degree · Bachelor · Persisted candidate preview

Bachelors of Arts in Faith-Based Education Specialization in Early Childhood Special Education

Academic unitCollege of Education and Human DevelopmentTotal credits120Estimated duration4 yearsSource documentBachelors_of_Arts_in_Faith_Based_Education_Specialization_in_Early_Childhood_Spe.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Education Specialization in Early Childhood Special Education

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Educational theory and practice core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Education with a Specialization in Early Childhood Special Education offers a comprehensive study of pedagogical theories, child development, and inclusive instructional design. The program balances rigorous academic inquiry with a commitment to the holistic development of the child, preparing students to support diverse learning needs within various educational environments.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Education Specialization in Early Childhood Special Education combines a rigorous liberal arts foundation with comprehensive study in educational theory, behavioral science, human development, professional ethics, pedagogical research, crisis awareness, student referral processes, program development, and community-based support systems.

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 Education Specialization in Early Childhood Special Education
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 Education and Human Development
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze developmental theories to design age-appropriate instructional strategies for young children with diverse needs.
  • Evaluate pedagogical models to create inclusive classroom environments that honor the dignity of every learner.
  • Apply ethical principles to the design of educational interventions that support neurodiverse learners in their academic growth.
  • Design collaborative partnerships with families and communities that reflect a commitment to stewardship and service.
  • Integrate Christian worldview perspectives into the evaluation of contemporary educational policies and practices.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in planning, implementing, and assessing differentiated learning experiences for early childhood settings.

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. The admissions process includes a review of academic transcripts, a personal statement reflecting on the candidate's desire to serve through education, and a recommendation from a mentor or professional contact. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Education. Students are required to develop a comprehensive project that synthesizes their understanding of pedagogical design, educational ethics, and their vocational identity as faith-informed educators. The project requires the submission of a research-based portfolio and a reflective pedagogical design that addresses a specific need in an early childhood inclusive setting. This project carries 4 credit hours and is weighted heavily in the final semester to ensure students demonstrate mastery of program objectives. Beyond academic competence, the project serves as a vehicle for demonstrating spiritual formation, requiring students to articulate how biblical stewardship and servant leadership influence their decision-making in the classroom. Students must provide a written analysis of how their proposed interventions align with an ethical framework rooted in Christian service and social responsibility, ensuring that their work transcends technical proficiency to reflect deep character development.

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

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU101Foundations of Education4None
View Description

An introduction to the history, philosophy, and social structures of education. Students analyze the role of the educator in society through the lens of servant leadershipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

ENG101Academic Writing and Rhetoric4None
View Description

Focuses on the development of critical thinking and written communication skills. Students explore techniques for clear, evidence-based academic discourseThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PSY101Introduction to Psychology4None
View Description

Provides an overview of the psychological study of human behavior and mental processes. Emphasis is placed on the scientific method and foundational developmental theoriesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PHI101Introduction to Moral Philosophy and Applied Ethics4None
View Description

This course examines the foundational theories of moral philosophy and their practical application in contemporary social and professional contexts. Students analyze diverse ethical frameworks to address complex dilemmas encountered in educational and community service environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU105Child Development4EDU101
View Description

Explores the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development of children from birth through middle childhood. Emphasis is placed on developmental milestonesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MAT110Quantitative Reasoning4None
View Description

Develops analytical skills through the study of mathematics in real-world contexts. Topics include data interpretation and statistical applicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

BIO105Biology and Human Systems4None
View Description

An overview of biological principles relevant to human life and health. Focuses on the structure and function of the human bodyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

SOC120Sociology of the Family4None
View Description

Analyzes the family as a foundational social institution. Students examine the impact of social change on familial roles and structuresThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 3

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU201Inclusive Classroom Practices4EDU105
View Description

Examines strategies for creating inclusive environments for students with diverse learning needs. Students evaluate evidence-based interventionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

COU210Introduction to Human Services4PSY101
View Description

An introduction to the helping professions. Focuses on professional boundaries and the ethical provision of support servicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

ENG205Literature for Children4ENG101
View Description

Explores the genre of children's literature with a focus on diverse themes and pedagogical utility. Students analyze text for cultural representationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

HIS201History of Social Movements4None
View Description

Investigates the history of efforts to improve educational and social outcomes for marginalized groups. Examines the impact of advocacyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Year 2

Semester 4

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU220Early Childhood Special Education4EDU201
View Description

Covers legal and pedagogical frameworks for teaching children with special needs. Focuses on planning and collaborative assessmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

RES250Methods of Research4MAT110
View Description

Introduces quantitative and qualitative research methods used in educational settings. Focuses on evaluating data to inform practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU240Language and Literacy Development4EDU105
View Description

Explores the acquisition of language in young children. Discusses strategies to support literacy in diverse learning settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

COM205Interpersonal Communication4None
View Description

Provides training in effective communication techniques for professional and community engagement. Focuses on active listening and conflict resolutionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 5

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU305Assessment in Special Education4EDU220
View Description

Examines formal and informal assessment tools. Students learn to interpret data to design differentiated instructionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU315Curriculum Design for Diverse Learners4EDU220
View Description

Focuses on the creation of flexible curriculum that accommodates various learning styles and needs. Emphasizes universal design for learningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

PSY320Behavioral Foundations4PSY101
View Description

Covers the foundations of behavioral support and classroom management. Focuses on positive reinforcement and supportive environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MIN301Leadership in Community Organizations4CHR101
View Description

Analyzes leadership theory and practice within the context of mission-driven organizations. Emphasizes stewardship of human and financial resourcesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 6

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU350Family-Centered Intervention4EDU305
View Description

Analyzes the importance of family collaboration in special education. Focuses on communication strategies and the development of partnershipsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU360Technology in Special Education4EDU315
View Description

Explores assistive technology and digital tools to enhance accessibility. Students evaluate the integration of technology in inclusive settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

BUS310Organizational Ethics4CHR101
View Description

Focuses on ethical decision-making within professional settings. Analyzes the alignment of organizational goals with personal valuesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU401Advanced Inclusive Instructional Strategies4EDU315
View Description

Focuses on the implementation of advanced teaching strategies for students with complex support needs. Emphasizes reflective practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Year 3

Semester 7

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU410Education Policy and Law4EDU220
View Description

Provides an analysis of relevant educational law and public policy. Focuses on legal obligations and ethical advocacy for student rightsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

CAP490Senior Capstone Project4Senior standing
View Description

The culminating project requiring students to demonstrate mastery in pedagogical design, ethical reflection, and faith-informed leadership. Deliverables include a portfolio and a comprehensive final paperThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU450Professionalism in Education4EDU401
View Description

Examines the transition to professional life, focusing on ethical conduct, collaborative practice, and lifelong learningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Major / Core Requirements

Major and core requirements

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None
  • EDU350 — Family-Centered Intervention: Analyzes the importance of family collaboration in special education. Focuses on communication strategies and the development of partnershipsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU360 — Technology in Special Education: Explores assistive technology and digital tools to enhance accessibility. Students evaluate the integration of technology in inclusive settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS310 — Organizational Ethics: Focuses on ethical decision-making within professional settings. Analyzes the alignment of organizational goals with personal valuesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None
  • EDU401 — Advanced Inclusive Instructional Strategies: Focuses on the implementation of advanced teaching strategies for students with complex support needs. Emphasizes reflective practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU410 — Education Policy and Law: Provides an analysis of relevant educational law and public policy. Focuses on legal obligations and ethical advocacy for student rightsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project requiring students to demonstrate mastery in pedagogical design, ethical reflection, and faith-informed leadership. Deliverables include a portfolio and a comprehensive final paperThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU450 — Professionalism in Education: Examines the transition to professional life, focusing on ethical conduct, collaborative practice, and lifelong learningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

General education | 36 credit hours

  • Educational theory and practice core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours

Electives

Elective requirements

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None
  • EDU350 — Family-Centered Intervention: Analyzes the importance of family collaboration in special education. Focuses on communication strategies and the development of partnershipsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU360 — Technology in Special Education: Explores assistive technology and digital tools to enhance accessibility. Students evaluate the integration of technology in inclusive settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS310 — Organizational Ethics: Focuses on ethical decision-making within professional settings. Analyzes the alignment of organizational goals with personal valuesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None
  • EDU401 — Advanced Inclusive Instructional Strategies: Focuses on the implementation of advanced teaching strategies for students with complex support needs. Emphasizes reflective practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU410 — Education Policy and Law: Provides an analysis of relevant educational law and public policy. Focuses on legal obligations and ethical advocacy for student rightsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None

General Education Elective

  • 4
  • None
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project requiring students to demonstrate mastery in pedagogical design, ethical reflection, and faith-informed leadership. Deliverables include a portfolio and a comprehensive final paperThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU450 — Professionalism in Education: Examines the transition to professional life, focusing on ethical conduct, collaborative practice, and lifelong learningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

ELECTIVE01 | General Education Elective | 4 | None

  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU401 | Advanced Inclusive Instructional Strategies | 4 | EDU315
  • EDU410 | Education Policy and Law | 4 | EDU220

ELECTIVE03 | General Education Elective | 4 | None

  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | Senior standing
  • EDU450 | Professionalism in Education | 4 | EDU401

Final Project Requirement

Final project requirement

Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours

  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU101 | Foundations of Education | 4 | None
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 4 | None
  • PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
  • PHI101 | Introduction to Moral Philosophy and Applied Ethics | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU105 | Child Development | 4 | EDU101
  • MAT110 | Quantitative Reasoning | 4 | None
  • BIO105 | Biology and Human Systems | 4 | None
  • SOC120 | Sociology of the Family | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU201 | Inclusive Classroom Practices | 4 | EDU105
  • COU210 | Introduction to Human Services | 4 | PSY101
  • ENG205 | Literature for Children | 4 | ENG101
  • HIS201 | History of Social Movements | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU220 | Early Childhood Special Education | 4 | EDU201
  • RES250 | Methods of Research | 4 | MAT110
  • EDU240 | Language and Literacy Development | 4 | EDU105
  • COM205 | Interpersonal Communication | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU305 | Assessment in Special Education | 4 | EDU220
  • EDU315 | Curriculum Design for Diverse Learners | 4 | EDU220
  • PSY320 | Behavioral Foundations | 4 | PSY101
  • MIN301 | Leadership in Community Organizations | 4 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU350 | Family-Centered Intervention | 4 | EDU305
  • EDU360 | Technology in Special Education | 4 | EDU315
  • BUS310 | Organizational Ethics | 4 | CHR101
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project — 4 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Candidates must fulfill all major requirements, including the satisfactory completion of the Senior Capstone Project, which demonstrates both academic rigor and a commitment to the university's values of ethical integrity and community stewardship. In addition to academic coursework, students are expected to participate in required spiritual formation activities, including regular chapel attendance and specified community service hours designed to foster a posture of humility and service-oriented leadership. These requirements ensure that graduates emerge not only as competent educators but as individuals grounded in a commitment to integrity, spiritual maturity, and the pursuit of excellence in all professional endeavors.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Early Childhood Inclusion Coordinator
  • Faith-Based Preschool Educator
  • Family Support Specialist
  • Educational Program Coordinator
  • Early Intervention Paraprofessional
  • Community Outreach Educator
  • Instructional Design Assistant

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 Education Specialization in Early Childhood Special Education
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years