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Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Public Speaking (Specialization in Advocacy Training)

Academic unitHBIU College of Communication and MediaTotal credits60Estimated duration2 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Public Speaking

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Public Speaking core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Public Speaking with a specialization in Advocacy Training provides students with a foundational understanding of rhetorical strategy, interpersonal communication, and organizational leadership. The curriculum emphasizes the application of ethical persuasion techniques to address complex social challenges within diverse community contexts. Students gain practical experience in structuring arguments, managing public discourse, and facilitating collaborative dialogue, ensuring they are prepared to articulate messages that promote social good and collective wellbeing.

Built upon a framework of servant leadership and stewardship, this program bridges academic inquiry with the practical demands of modern advocacy. The coursework encourages critical reflection on how communication can be utilized to advance justice and support community-centered missions. By synthesizing rhetorical theory with a commitment to integrity, students are equipped to represent organizations and causes with clarity, conviction, and a professional ethos that reflects a deeply rooted commitment to service.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Public Speaking (Specialization in Advocacy Training) provides students with a foundational study in public speaking, human development, communication, ethics, community resources, and supportive service practices. Through a curriculum integrated with faith-based principles, students develop the rhetorical skills and advocacy strategies necessary to effectively articulate messages within diverse community, ministry, and public settings.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.A. in Faith-Based Public Speaking
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 Communication and Media
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze complex social issues to develop evidence-based advocacy strategies.
  • Demonstrate effective public speaking techniques through oral presentation and digital communication platforms.
  • Evaluate the intersection of rhetorical theory and ethical decision-making in professional settings.
  • Design communication campaigns that articulate organizational values and community needs.
  • Integrate principles of servant leadership into interpersonal and group communication tasks.
  • Apply critical thinking skills to interpret diverse perspectives in public discourse.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG 101
  • College Composition
  • 4
  • None
  • COM 110
  • Foundations of Public Speaking
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC 105
  • Sociology of Community
  • 3
  • None
  • THE 102
  • Principles of Servant Leadership
  • 4
  • None
  • ENG 101 — College Composition: Focuses on the development of clear, academic writing and the synthesis of research sources. Students learn to draft persuasive essays grounded in ethical reasoning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM 110 — Foundations of Public Speaking: Introduces the fundamentals of oral presentation, including audience analysis, speech structure, and delivery techniques. Students practice presenting ideas clearly in diverse settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC 105 — Sociology of Community: Examines the structures and challenges of modern community life, focusing on social responsibility and collaborative problem-solving. It encourages an understanding of societal needs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • THE 102 — Principles of Servant Leadership: Explores the theory and application of leading through service, emphasizing humility, stewardship, and ethical influence. Students apply these concepts to team dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM 205
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • COM 110
  • BUS 210
  • Nonprofit Organizational Communication
  • 4
  • None
  • MAT 120
  • Quantitative Reasoning for Social Change
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS 201
  • History of Advocacy and Social Movements
  • 4
  • None
  • COM 205 — Interpersonal Communication: Analyzes the mechanics of dialogue, active listening, and conflict resolution in one-on-one and small group interactions. Focuses on building trust and professional rapport. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS 210 — Nonprofit Organizational Communication: Examines the unique communication strategies required for successful nonprofit management and stakeholder engagement. Discusses the role of public outreach. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MAT 120 — Quantitative Reasoning for Social Change: Develops the ability to interpret data and statistical evidence to support arguments for social and community advocacy. Focuses on logical analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS 201 — History of Advocacy and Social Movements: Reviews historical examples of public advocacy and the impact of communication on social change initiatives. Focuses on lessons for modern application. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM 301
  • Rhetoric and Ethical Persuasion
  • 4
  • COM 110
  • EDU 315
  • Educational Communication and Training
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 250
  • Psychology of Motivation
  • 3
  • None
  • RES 300
  • Research Methods for Advocacy
  • 4
  • ENG 101
  • COM 301 — Rhetoric and Ethical Persuasion: Explores advanced rhetorical strategies and the ethics of influence in public and private life. Emphasizes honesty and transparency. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU 315 — Educational Communication and Training: Provides techniques for facilitating workshops and educational sessions for diverse groups. Focuses on accessible communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY 250 — Psychology of Motivation: Studies the psychological principles that drive human motivation and commitment to causes. Assists students in effective team mobilization. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES 300 — Research Methods for Advocacy: Introduces qualitative and quantitative research techniques for gathering evidence to support advocacy programs. Focuses on ethical collection of data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM 410
  • Crisis and Conflict Communication
  • 3
  • COM 205
  • MGT 420
  • Digital Advocacy Strategy
  • 4
  • None
  • CHR 450
  • Ethics in Public Life
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP 499
  • Capstone Advocacy Project
  • 4
  • RES 300
  • COM 410 — Crisis and Conflict Communication: Trains students to manage organizational communication during sensitive times and navigate interpersonal conflicts with professional grace. Focuses on reconciliation and stability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT 420 — Digital Advocacy Strategy: Focuses on utilizing digital platforms and media to broaden the reach of advocacy initiatives. Analyzes ethical use of technology. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CHR 450 — Ethics in Public Life: Critically engages with moral philosophy and its practical application to current public discourse. Promotes a high standard of professional integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CAP 499 — Capstone Advocacy Project: The culminating project where students design, implement, and present an advocacy campaign for a community-based organization. Reflects personal growth and academic proficiency. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). Admission requires submission of official transcripts, a statement of personal and professional goals, and two letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the applicant's character and commitment to service. Prospective students should demonstrate an aptitude for communicative arts and a desire to serve in professional or ministerial environments. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Public Speaking. Students are required to develop a comprehensive advocacy campaign that addresses a specific need within a faith-based or community nonprofit organization. This project requires students to synthesize their learning in rhetoric, interpersonal communication, and organizational ethics to produce a tangible output, such as a strategic communications plan, a series of public speeches, or a media-based outreach initiative. The project integrates faith-informed perspectives by requiring students to articulate how their advocacy work serves the common good and upholds principles of biblical stewardship and ethical integrity. Throughout the development process, students are evaluated not only on their academic competence and analytical skills but also on their character development, demonstrated through reflections on their vocational call and their commitment to acting as ethical representatives of their chosen mission. This capstone ensures that students leave the program with a demonstrated capacity to integrate professional excellence with a mission-driven, service-oriented mindset.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 60 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students must earn a passing grade in all core and elective coursework and demonstrate the mastery of program learning outcomes through the successful completion and presentation of the Capstone Project. In addition to academic rigor, the institution requires participation in scheduled community service hours and spiritual formation seminars to ensure the development of character and professional maturity.
  • The final evaluation for graduation balances academic achievement with holistic readiness for service. Students must demonstrate evidence of ethical integrity and a readiness to apply their communication skills to support faith-informed work. Graduation marks the student’s transition from an academic learner to an active practitioner equipped to engage in community service, leadership, and public advocacy with both intellectual precision and a servant-hearted commitment to their profession.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Nonprofit Communications Coordinator
  • Community Outreach Specialist
  • Faith-Based Program Liaison
  • Advocacy Strategist for Social Services
  • Public Relations Assistant for Missions
  • Interfaith Dialogue Facilitator
  • Volunteer Recruitment Specialist
  • 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 Public Speaking
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years
  • General education | 18 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Public Speaking core | 30 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 9 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG 101 | College Composition | 4 | None
  • COM 110 | Foundations of Public Speaking | 3 | None
  • SOC 105 | Sociology of Community | 3 | None
  • THE 102 | Principles of Servant Leadership | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM 205 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | COM 110
  • BUS 210 | Nonprofit Organizational Communication | 4 | None
  • MAT 120 | Quantitative Reasoning for Social Change | 3 | None
  • HIS 201 | History of Advocacy and Social Movements | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM 301 | Rhetoric and Ethical Persuasion | 4 | COM 110
  • EDU 315 | Educational Communication and Training | 3 | None
  • PSY 250 | Psychology of Motivation | 3 | None
  • RES 300 | Research Methods for Advocacy | 4 | ENG 101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM 410 | Crisis and Conflict Communication | 3 | COM 205
  • MGT 420 | Digital Advocacy Strategy | 4 | None
  • CHR 450 | Ethics in Public Life | 3 | None
  • CAP 499 | Capstone Advocacy Project | 4 | RES 300

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Nonprofit Communications Coordinator
  • Community Outreach Specialist
  • Faith-Based Program Liaison
  • Advocacy Strategist for Social Services
  • Public Relations Assistant for Missions
  • Interfaith Dialogue Facilitator
  • Volunteer Recruitment Specialist

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 | A.A. in Faith-Based Public Speaking
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years