Master of Arts in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced faith-based dance and movement therapy core

27 credit hours

Research, assessment, and program evaluation

12 credit hours

Professional application and field experience

12 credit hours

Graduate capstone requirement

9 credit hours

The Master of Arts in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy program at HBI University cultivates graduate-level scholars and practitioners who integrate the disciplines of dance, somatic practices, and theological understanding. This program is designed for individuals seeking to explore the profound connection between physical expression, therapeutic intervention, and spiritual formation within a faith-based context. Students will engage in rigorous academic inquiry and practical application, developing a nuanced understanding of how movement can facilitate holistic well-being and serve community needs.

The 60-credit master's program provides advanced preparation in faith-based dance and movement therapy theory, human behavior, ethics, assessment awareness, research, program evaluation, crisis response, leadership, referral, and faith-based dance and movement therapy-support services.

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based dance and movement therapy-support program; A professional training manual; A program-development and evaluation project; Another faculty-approved scholarly project.

The program is designed for completion within two academic years by students maintaining the University's prescribed full-time course load. Part-time students may require additional time.

Florida establishes a minimum of 24 semester credits beyond the bachelor's degree for a master's program. The University's 60-credit requirement is an institutional academic standard that exceeds that minimum.

Program Details

• Total Credits: 60
• Duration: 2 years
• Degree Level: Master

Thesis or Capstone Project

• The culminating academic experience for the Master of Arts in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy is a significant research-based Capstone Project or Thesis. This project serves as the final synthesis of the student's academic journey, allowing them to explore a topic relevant to faith-based dance and movement therapy in depth. The purpose of this capstone is to demonstrate the student's ability to apply theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, and practical skills to a focused area of inquiry, all while integrating a robust faith-based perspective. Students will work closely with a faculty advisor to define their project scope, conduct research, and develop scholarly work that reflects ethical reasoning, stewardship of talents and resources, and a commitment to servant leadership within their chosen specialization.
• The Capstone Project or Thesis will require students to engage deeply with their chosen research question, culminating in a written document and potentially a practical demonstration or presentation. This significant undertaking is weighted at 6 credit hours and requires students to articulate how their research and findings are informed by a Christian worldview. It is an opportunity to showcase not only academic competence but also spiritual maturity and character development, preparing them for impactful service in their professional endeavors. This project will critically examine how faith-based principles inform the ethical practice and application of movement therapy, underscoring the university's commitment to preparing reflective, principled practitioners.

Career Opportunities

• Community Arts Program Coordinator
• Faith-Based Wellness Facilitator
• Nonprofit Arts Administrator
• Movement Specialist in Faith Communities
• Chaplaincy Support (Arts Ministry)
• Christian Non-Profit Program Developer
• Arts Educator in Faith-Based Schools
• Stewardship and Development Officer (Arts Focus)

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 | M.A. in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy
• Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
• Advanced faith-based dance and movement therapy core | 27 credit hours
• Research, assessment, and program evaluation | 12 credit hours
• Professional application and field experience | 12 credit hours
• Graduate capstone requirement | 9 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DNC501 | Foundations of Movement Studies and Dance History | 3 | None
• PSY505 | Introduction to Human Development | 3 | None
• PSY510 | Principles of Embodied Cognition and Psychology | 3 | None
• RES500 | Foundations of Research Methods | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DNC515 | Somatic Practices for Well-being | 4 | DNC501
• COU520 | Introduction to Counseling Theories | 3 | PSY505
• ETH530 | Ethical Leadership and Stewardship | 3 | THE510
• SOC505 | Sociocultural Perspectives on Global Communities | 3 | THE510
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DNC530 | Movement Therapy Techniques | 4 | DNC515, COU520
• COU540 | Group Dynamics and Facilitation | 3 | COU520
• SOC550 | Community Organizing and Social Outreach | 3 | ETH530, HUM505
• DNC590 | Practicum in Movement Therapy | 3 | DNC530, COU540
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DNC600 | Master's Thesis/Capstone Project I | 3 | RES500, DNC590
• DNC601 | Master's Thesis/Capstone Project II | 3 | DNC600
• SOC610 | Public Policy and Civic Engagement | 3 | HUM505, MIN550
• DNC650 | Professional Development and Vocation | 3 | DNC590, ETH610