Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Environmental Studies (Specialization in Environmental Sustainability, Policy)

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Environmental Studies

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

Academic unit

HBIU College of Science and Social Science

Total credits

60

Duration

2 years

• Analyze the fundamental scientific principles governing ecosystems and their sustainability.
• Evaluate historical and contemporary environmental policy frameworks.
• Integrate ethical reasoning and biblical stewardship perspectives into environmental decision-making processes.
• Communicate complex environmental findings to diverse community stakeholders effectively.
• Develop sustainable management strategies for local community initiatives.
• Apply concepts of servant leadership in the promotion of environmental justice and conservation.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• BIO 101
• Environmental Biology
• 4
• None
• ENG 101
• Academic Writing and Research
• 3
• None
• SOC 101
• Introduction to Sociology
• 3
• None
• ENV 101
• Principles of Environmental Sustainability
• 3
• None
• BIO 101 — Environmental Biology: An introduction to the fundamental principles of biology, including energy flow, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity. The course highlights the importance of ecological balance and human interaction with the natural world. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ENG 101 — Academic Writing and Research: Students develop essential skills in argumentative writing, research synthesis, and critical analysis. The course emphasizes clarity, logical structure, and academic integrity in professional communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: This course examines the social structures, processes, and issues that shape contemporary communities. It emphasizes the sociological study of environment-human interactions and community development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ENV 101 — Principles of Environmental Sustainability: This course examines the core concepts of resource management, ecological preservation, and the human impact on global ecosystems. It explores frameworks for sustainable development and responsible environmental stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• BIO 201
• Sustainability Science
• 4
• BIO 101
• HIS 150
• Environmental History
• 3
• None
• COM 200
• Professional Communication
• 3
• ENG 101
• BUS 120
• Principles of Management
• 3
• None
• BIO 201 — Sustainability Science: An analysis of systems-based approaches to sustainable development, focusing on renewable resources and the reduction of waste. Students explore the scientific limitations and possibilities of current environmental technologies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS 150 — Environmental History: This course traces the history of human interaction with nature and the evolution of environmental consciousness. Students discuss the impact of industrialization and the rise of conservationist movements. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 200 — Professional Communication: Focused on effective communication strategies for professional and community settings. Topics include public speaking, digital outreach, and stakeholder engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 120 — Principles of Management: An introduction to organizational behavior, team management, and the basics of non-profit operations. Emphasis is placed on ethical leadership and resource allocation within mission-driven entities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• POL 210
• Environmental Policy and Law
• 4
• SOC 101
• MIN 250
• Servant Leadership in Practice
• 3
• None
• MAT 150
• Quantitative Reasoning for Social Science
• 3
• None
• RES 200
• Research Methods
• 3
• ENG 101
• POL 210 — Environmental Policy and Law: An examination of key environmental legislation, policy formulation, and administrative regulatory frameworks. Students analyze how local and national policies affect the implementation of sustainability goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN 250 — Servant Leadership in Practice: This course explores the theoretical foundations and practical applications of servant leadership within community contexts. Students participate in simulations and projects designed to foster a service-oriented mindset. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT 150 — Quantitative Reasoning for Social Science: Basic statistics and quantitative methods used to interpret research data in social and environmental studies. Students learn to evaluate statistical claims to inform decision-making processes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 200 — Research Methods: An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methodologies used in social sciences. Students gain skills in data collection, survey design, and ethical research conduct. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP 290
• Environmental Capstone Project
• 4
• RES 200, POL 210
• COU 220
• Conflict Resolution in Community Settings
• 3
• None
• BUS 250
• Nonprofit Resource Development
• 3
• BUS 120
• HUM 205
• Ethics in the Global Community
• 3
• None
• CAP 290 — Environmental Capstone Project: The final integrative project where students design a comprehensive environmental initiative that addresses a community need. Students demonstrate their ability to apply research, policy knowledge, and ethical reasoning to practical challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU 220 — Conflict Resolution in Community Settings: An introduction to techniques for mediating disputes and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholder groups. Emphasizes empathetic communication and constructive negotiation in community and organizational environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 250 — Nonprofit Resource Development: Focuses on grant writing, fundraising, and resource management strategies for community-based environmental organizations. Students learn to articulate a vision and gather support for long-term sustainability initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM 205 — Ethics in the Global Community: A study of moral frameworks and their application to global citizenship, social justice, and environmental challenges. Students evaluate their own ethical commitments within a broad, pluralistic society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). Prospective students are evaluated based on their academic readiness, personal character references, and an articulation of their commitment to personal integrity and community service. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate an interest in the intersection of environmental sciences and social responsibility as part of the holistic admissions process. Culminating Project The capstone project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Environmental Studies, requiring students to synthesize their learning across all program disciplines. The project scope involves designing a research-based proposal for a community-centered sustainability initiative that addresses a specific environmental concern through ethical policy application. Students will develop a comprehensive report that details the scientific basis, policy implications, and implementation strategies for their proposed model. Beyond academic competence, the capstone project functions as a vehicle for integrating faith-based perspectives, including biblical stewardship and the commitment to servant leadership. Students must demonstrate how their project reflects ethical integrity and a Christian worldview, ensuring that their proposed solutions serve the community effectively and honor the mandate of responsible care for the environment. This project underscores the student's readiness to apply both scholarly knowledge and character-driven service to real-world challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

• To graduate, students must complete the 60-credit hour curriculum with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. Graduation is contingent upon the successful completion of all core and elective courses, as well as a passing evaluation of the capstone project. In addition to academic rigor, students are expected to engage in community service and spiritual formation activities throughout their tenure to ensure a holistic balance of intellectual growth and character development.
• Graduates are expected to embody the values of ethical integrity and servant leadership as they enter their chosen fields. By pairing academic achievement with spiritual maturity, this program ensures that students are not only technically proficient but also prepared to act as agents of positive change within their communities. The program emphasizes that success is measured by both professional excellence and the capacity for faith-informed service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Career Opportunities
• Environmental Non-Profit Coordinator
• Sustainability Program Assistant
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Environmental Education Assistant
• Policy Research Associate
• Faith-Based Stewardship Director
• Land Management Technician
• Community Garden Coordinator
• 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 | A.A. in Faith-Based Environmental Studies
• Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years
• General education | 18 credit hours
• Faith-Based Environmental Studies core | 30 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 9 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BIO 101 | Environmental Biology | 4 | None
• ENG 101 | Academic Writing and Research | 3 | None
• SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• ENV 101 | Principles of Environmental Sustainability | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BIO 201 | Sustainability Science | 4 | BIO 101
• HIS 150 | Environmental History | 3 | None
• COM 200 | Professional Communication | 3 | ENG 101
• BUS 120 | Principles of Management | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• POL 210 | Environmental Policy and Law | 4 | SOC 101
• MIN 250 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | None
• MAT 150 | Quantitative Reasoning for Social Science | 3 | None
• RES 200 | Research Methods | 3 | ENG 101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP 290 | Environmental Capstone Project | 4 | RES 200, POL 210
• COU 220 | Conflict Resolution in Community Settings | 3 | None
• BUS 250 | Nonprofit Resource Development | 3 | BUS 120
• HUM 205 | Ethics in the Global Community | 3 | None