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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Veterinary Medicine Theory, Specialization in Animal Welfare

Academic unitHBIU College of Health ScienceTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Veterinary Medicine Theory

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Veterinary Medicine Theory core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Veterinary Medicine Theory, Specialization in Animal Welfare is a multidisciplinary program designed to bridge the gap between biological sciences, animal ethics, and theological stewardship. Students explore the intersection of human responsibility, creation care, and the physiological needs of animals, providing a robust intellectual framework for those called to service in the animal care sector. The program emphasizes professional integrity, compassionate stewardship, and the complex ethical considerations inherent in modern veterinary theory.

Rooted in an academic environment that values both rigorous inquiry and service-oriented character development, the curriculum prepares students to navigate the moral complexities of animal welfare. By integrating theoretical foundations in animal science with courses in ethics and leadership, the program fosters critical thinking and a commitment to serving society through the lens of faith-informed excellence.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Veterinary Medicine Theory program combines rigorous general education with a comprehensive study in veterinary medicine theory, behavioral science, animal welfare, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a holistic understanding of the intersection between animal stewardship, ethical responsibility, and faith-based practice.

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 Veterinary Medicine Theory
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
HBIU College of Health Science
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the ethical foundations of animal welfare within a theological and secular context.
  • Evaluate physiological and behavioral markers of animal well-being using recognized scientific standards.
  • Apply principles of servant leadership to management roles within animal care organizations.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in communicating complex veterinary theory to diverse public audiences.
  • Develop evidence-based policies that promote responsible stewardship and animal health.
  • Integrate Christian worldview perspectives into organizational decision-making processes.
  • Design comprehensive welfare assessments that prioritize the humane treatment of domestic and non-domestic animals.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BIO 101
  • Principles of Biological Science
  • 4
  • None
  • ENG 101
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • 3
  • None
  • PHI 101
  • Introduction to Moral Philosophy
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 101
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • BIO 101 — Principles of Biological Science: An introduction to the structure and function of living organisms. Focuses on cellular biology and fundamental biological processesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG 101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: Focuses on developing clear, professional communication and persuasive writing skills. Emphasis is placed on research methodologyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PHI 101 — Introduction to Moral Philosophy: This course examines fundamental theories of ethics, including utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, to analyze complex moral dilemmas in professional settings. Students develop critical reasoning skills to evaluate ethical decision-making frameworks within public and private sectors. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: An overview of the scientific study of human behavior and cognitive processes. Includes applications to interpersonal relationshipsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BIO 102
  • Animal Anatomy and Physiology
  • 4
  • BIO 101
  • SOC 105
  • Sociology of Human-Animal Interaction
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT 150
  • Statistics for the Health Sciences
  • 3
  • None
  • COM 201
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • BIO 102 — Animal Anatomy and Physiology: Explores the structural and functional systems of various animal species. Provides a basis for understanding physical welfare needsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 105 — Sociology of Human-Animal Interaction: Examines the historical and social dimensions of the human-animal bond. Investigates the cultural role of animals in societyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MAT 150 — Statistics for the Health Sciences: Teaches foundational statistical methods for analyzing data in scientific contexts. Focuses on research design and applicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM 201 — Interpersonal Communication: Covers effective verbal and non-verbal communication strategies. Focuses on conflict resolution and empathetic listeningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • VET 201
  • Introduction to Animal Welfare Theory
  • 3
  • BIO 102
  • BUS 210
  • Principles of Management
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR 202
  • Servant Leadership in Practice
  • 3
  • THE 101
  • BIO 210
  • Animal Behavior
  • 4
  • BIO 102
  • VET 201 — Introduction to Animal Welfare Theory: Introduces the major paradigms of animal welfare science and ethics. Discusses the evolution of animal welfare legislationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS 210 — Principles of Management: Provides an overview of organizational structures and leadership principles. Focuses on non-profit and corporate managementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR 202 — Servant Leadership in Practice: Explores the model of servant leadership as an approach to administration. Examines leadership through historical and biblical casesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BIO 210 — Animal Behavior: Analyzes the patterns of behavior in animals and their implications for well-being. Focuses on environmental stressors and adaptationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • VET 220
  • Animal Husbandry and Stewardship
  • 3
  • VET 201
  • RES 250
  • Research Methods in the Social Sciences
  • 3
  • MAT 150
  • HUM 250
  • History of Animal Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • EDU 205
  • Community Outreach and Education
  • 3
  • None
  • VET 220 — Animal Husbandry and Stewardship: Focuses on best practices for housing, nutrition, and general care of animals. Emphasizes the role of the caregiverThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES 250 — Research Methods in the Social Sciences: An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research techniques. Prepares students for senior level academic researchThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HUM 250 — History of Animal Ethics: Surveys the development of animal ethics from antiquity to the present day. Critically analyzes historical philosophical perspectivesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU 205 — Community Outreach and Education: Teaches strategies for public engagement and education programs. Focuses on advocacy and community involvementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • VET 310
  • Ethics of Veterinary Medicine
  • 3
  • VET 201
  • MGT 330
  • Nonprofit Resource Management
  • 3
  • BUS 210
  • BIO 320
  • Comparative Pathology
  • 4
  • BIO 102
  • PSY 305
  • Counseling and Compassion Fatigue
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • VET 310 — Ethics of Veterinary Medicine: Examines the moral decisions faced by professionals in animal care. Discusses dilemmas related to treatment and euthanasiaThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MGT 330 — Nonprofit Resource Management: Covers financial stewardship, grant writing, and resource allocation in non-profit environments. Focuses on sustainabilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BIO 320 — Comparative Pathology: An advanced study of diseases affecting different species. Focuses on identifying health trends and environmental factorsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 305 — Counseling and Compassion Fatigue: Explores the psychological impact of working in animal care fields. Develops strategies for resilience and self-careThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • VET 350
  • Animal Welfare Policy Analysis
  • 3
  • VET 201
  • ENV 350
  • Environmental Sustainability and Stewardship
  • 3
  • THE 101
  • SOC 360
  • Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
  • 3
  • COM 201
  • BIO 380
  • Global Veterinary Health Trends
  • 4
  • BIO 102
  • VET 350 — Animal Welfare Policy Analysis: Critically analyzes existing animal welfare policies and legal frameworks. Focuses on the role of advocacy in policy reformThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENV 350 — Environmental Sustainability and Stewardship: This course investigates the ecological, economic, and social dimensions of global environmental conservation and sustainable resource management. Students analyze the impact of human activity on natural habitats and explore strategies for implementing systemic environmental advocacy and reform. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC 360 — Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: Develops skills for resolving conflicts within diverse organizational settings. Emphasizes collaborative decision-makingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BIO 380 — Global Veterinary Health Trends: Examines global trends in zoonotic diseases and animal population health. Explores the interdependence of environmental and animal healthThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • VET 410
  • Advanced Animal Welfare Advocacy
  • 3
  • VET 350
  • MGT 450
  • Organizational Leadership and Culture
  • 3
  • MGT 330
  • RES 401
  • Senior Project Seminar
  • 3
  • RES 250
  • HUM 410
  • Contemporary Issues in Stewardship
  • 3
  • None
  • VET 410 — Advanced Animal Welfare Advocacy: Advanced course on developing and executing advocacy campaigns. Focuses on strategic communication and media relationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MGT 450 — Organizational Leadership and Culture: Investigates the dynamics of organizational culture. Focuses on leading change and fostering ethical environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES 401 — Senior Project Seminar: Facilitates the selection and design of the final capstone project. Includes literature review and research proposal developmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HUM 410 — Contemporary Issues in Stewardship: A seminar exploring current challenges in ethical stewardship of all resources. Integrates interdisciplinary perspectivesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP 490
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 6
  • RES 401
  • SOC 450
  • Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility
  • 3
  • CHR 202
  • VET 499
  • Professional Field Study
  • 3
  • VET 410
  • CAP 490 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project requiring an independent study on animal welfare policy or ethics. Involves a final presentation and research portfolioThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 450 — Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility: This course explores the intersection of professional practice, civic duty, and the historical development of social corporate responsibility. Students examine how personal and institutional values influence organizational behavior and commitment to public welfare. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • VET 499 — Professional Field Study: Directed project experience focusing on real-world animal welfare settings. Emphasizes professional observation and reportingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Admissions committees evaluate the candidate’s commitment to service, personal character, and academic readiness. Prerequisites include foundational courses in biology and English composition to ensure students are prepared for the rigorous academic work required at the baccalaureate level. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project represents the final synthesis of the student's academic and personal formation within the program. Spanning the entirety of the eighth semester, this project requires students to design and conduct an independent study that addresses a critical challenge in animal welfare, utilizing the research and ethical theories mastered throughout the degree. Deliverables include a formal research paper and a comprehensive policy proposal that demonstrates scholarly rigor and practical application. Integrative by design, the project compels students to articulate how their faith-based values—specifically concepts of creation care and moral stewardship—inform their professional decision-making. Students must demonstrate both academic competence in animal welfare theory and a refined ability to integrate biblical ethics into real-world scenarios. This culminating project serves as a final testament to the student's readiness to serve as a leader of integrity and compassion in their future career.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To earn the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Veterinary Medicine Theory, students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. All core and required courses must be passed with a grade of C- or higher, and the Senior Capstone Project must be submitted and defended before a faculty committee. Academic achievement is viewed in tandem with the cultivation of professional excellence and personal integrity.
  • In addition to academic benchmarks, graduates must fulfill the university's spiritual formation requirements, which include regular chapel participation and the completion of core theological and service-learning courses. Graduation signifies not only the acquisition of technical knowledge but also a commitment to lifelong stewardship, ethical maturity, and a life of service grounded in the university's faith-based mission.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Animal Welfare Policy Analyst
  • Nonprofit Organization Manager
  • Humane Society Program Director
  • Animal Shelter Administrator
  • Animal Advocacy Coordinator
  • Veterinary Office Manager
  • Creation Care Consultant
  • 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 Veterinary Medicine Theory
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Veterinary Medicine Theory core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BIO 101 | Principles of Biological Science | 4 | None
  • ENG 101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
  • PHI 101 | Introduction to Moral Philosophy | 3 | None
  • PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BIO 102 | Animal Anatomy and Physiology | 4 | BIO 101
  • SOC 105 | Sociology of Human-Animal Interaction | 3 | None
  • MAT 150 | Statistics for the Health Sciences | 3 | None
  • COM 201 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • VET 201 | Introduction to Animal Welfare Theory | 3 | BIO 102
  • BUS 210 | Principles of Management | 3 | None
  • CHR 202 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | THE 101
  • BIO 210 | Animal Behavior | 4 | BIO 102
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • VET 220 | Animal Husbandry and Stewardship | 3 | VET 201
  • RES 250 | Research Methods in the Social Sciences | 3 | MAT 150
  • HUM 250 | History of Animal Ethics | 3 | None
  • EDU 205 | Community Outreach and Education | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • VET 310 | Ethics of Veterinary Medicine | 3 | VET 201
  • MGT 330 | Nonprofit Resource Management | 3 | BUS 210
  • BIO 320 | Comparative Pathology | 4 | BIO 102
  • PSY 305 | Counseling and Compassion Fatigue | 3 | PSY 101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • VET 350 | Animal Welfare Policy Analysis | 3 | VET 201
  • ENV 350 | Environmental Sustainability and Stewardship | 3 | THE 101
  • SOC 360 | Conflict Resolution and Negotiation | 3 | COM 201
  • BIO 380 | Global Veterinary Health Trends | 4 | BIO 102
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • VET 410 | Advanced Animal Welfare Advocacy | 3 | VET 350
  • MGT 450 | Organizational Leadership and Culture | 3 | MGT 330
  • RES 401 | Senior Project Seminar | 3 | RES 250
  • HUM 410 | Contemporary Issues in Stewardship | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP 490 | Senior Capstone Project | 6 | RES 401
  • SOC 450 | Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility | 3 | CHR 202
  • VET 499 | Professional Field Study | 3 | VET 410

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Animal Welfare Policy Analyst
  • Nonprofit Organization Manager
  • Humane Society Program Director
  • Animal Shelter Administrator
  • Animal Advocacy Coordinator
  • Veterinary Office Manager
  • Creation Care Consultant

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 Veterinary Medicine Theory
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years