Bachelor of Arts in Divinity, Specialization in Chaplaincy, Counseling and Psychology

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Divinity, Major in Chaplaincy, Counseling, Psychology

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 Seminary

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Explain foundational theological concepts and their application to pastoral care and counseling.
• Analyze human behavior and psychological development from multidisciplinary perspectives.
• Apply ethical principles and faith-based values to diverse counseling and chaplaincy scenarios.
• Develop communication and interpersonal skills essential for effective pastoral care and support.
• Evaluate the role of spirituality and faith in individual and community well-being.
• Integrate psychological theories with a Christian worldview to inform approaches to human challenges.
• Demonstrate an understanding of community engagement and stewardship in service contexts.
• Design and present a capstone project that synthesizes disciplinary knowledge and faith-based practice.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG 101
• Composition and Rhetoric I
• 3
• None
• PSY 101
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• THE 101
• Introduction to Christian Thought
• 3
• None
• HUM 101
• Foundations of the Humanities
• 3
• None
• ENG 101 — Composition and Rhetoric I: This course introduces the fundamental principles of academic writing, including argumentation, critical analysis, and research methods. Emphasis is placed on developing clear, coherent prose and effective rhetorical strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: This course provides an overview of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Topics include history, research methods, biological bases of behavior, sensation, perception, learning, memory, and motivation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE 101 — Introduction to Christian Thought: This course explores fundamental concepts in Christian theology and their historical development. Students will examine key doctrines, beliefs, and practices within the Christian tradition. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM 101 — Foundations of the Humanities: An exploration of major works and ideas in literature, philosophy, and the arts that have shaped Western civilization. This course fosters critical thinking and an appreciation for diverse cultural expressions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG 102
• Composition and Rhetoric II
• 3
• ENG 101
• PSY 201
• Developmental Psychology
• 3
• PSY 101
• SOC 101
• Introduction to Sociology
• 3
• None
• BIB 101
• Introduction to Biblical Studies
• 3
• None
• ENG 102 — Composition and Rhetoric II: Building upon Composition I, this course focuses on advanced essay writing, research paper development, and critical evaluation of sources. Students will refine their argumentation and scholarly voice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 201 — Developmental Psychology: This course examines the psychological changes and continuities that occur throughout the human lifespan, from conception to old age. It covers physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and theories of sociology. It explores social structures, institutions, socialization, and social change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BIB 101 — Introduction to Biblical Studies: An introduction to the study of the Bible, including its historical context, literary genres, and theological themes. Students will learn methods for interpreting biblical texts responsibly. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 201
• Introduction to Counseling
• 3
• PSY 101
• PSY 210
• Social Psychology
• 3
• PSY 101
• THE 201
• Christian Ethics
• 3
• THE 101
• HIS 101
• World Civilizations
• 3
• None
• COU 201 — Introduction to Counseling: This course provides an overview of the counseling profession, including theoretical approaches, ethical considerations, and basic interviewing skills. It explores the role of counselors in various settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 210 — Social Psychology: This course examines how the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of individuals are influenced by the actual, imagined, or implied presence of others. Topics include attitudes, conformity, aggression, and group dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE 201 — Christian Ethics: This course explores ethical theories and practices from a Christian perspective. Students will analyze moral decision-making and apply principles of stewardship and compassion. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS 101 — World Civilizations: A survey of major historical developments and cultural patterns across global civilizations from ancient times to the present. This course emphasizes critical historical analysis and interpretation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 301
• Theories of Counseling
• 3
• COU 201, PSY 101
• PSY 220
• Abnormal Psychology
• 3
• PSY 101
• COM 201
• Interpersonal Communication
• 3
• None
• MIN 201
• Introduction to Ministry
• 3
• THE 101, BIB 101
• COU 301 — Theories of Counseling: A comprehensive examination of major theoretical orientations in counseling, including psychodynamic, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic approaches. Students will analyze the application of these theories. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 220 — Abnormal Psychology: This course surveys the major psychological disorders, their causes, characteristics, and treatment approaches. Emphasis is placed on understanding abnormal behavior within its biological, psychological, and social contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 201 — Interpersonal Communication: This course examines the principles and practices of effective interpersonal communication. Students will develop skills in active listening, empathy, conflict resolution, and relationship building. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN 201 — Introduction to Ministry: This course provides foundational knowledge and practical skills for engaging in various forms of Christian ministry. It explores principles of leadership, service, and community engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 310
• Counseling Skills and Techniques
• 4
• COU 301
• PSY 301
• Cognitive Psychology
• 3
• PSY 101
• CHR 301
• Foundations of Chaplaincy
• 3
• MIN 201
• PHI 201
• Introduction to Philosophy
• 3
• None
• COU 310 — Counseling Skills and Techniques: This course focuses on the development and practice of core counseling skills, including empathy, reflection, interpretation, and intervention strategies. Students will engage in supervised practice and role-playing exercises. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 301 — Cognitive Psychology: This course explores the mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge, including perception, attention, memory, language, problem-solving, and decision-making. Students will analyze cognitive models and theories. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR 301 — Foundations of Chaplaincy: This course introduces the history, philosophy, and practice of chaplaincy in diverse settings such as hospitals, military, and correctional facilities. It examines the unique role of chaplains in providing spiritual and emotional support. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PHI 201 — Introduction to Philosophy: This course offers an overview of major philosophical inquiries, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and logic. Students will engage with foundational philosophical questions and thinkers. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 320
• Group Counseling
• 3
• COU 310
• PSY 310
• Psychology of Religion and Spirituality
• 3
• PSY 101
• THE 301
• Theology of Ministry and Service
• 3
• THE 201, BIB 101
• RES 201
• Introduction to Research Methods
• 3
• PSY 101, SOC 101
• COU 320 — Group Counseling: This course examines the theory and practice of group counseling, including group dynamics, leadership, and therapeutic interventions. Students will learn to facilitate effective group experiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 310 — Psychology of Religion and Spirituality: This course investigates the psychological aspects of religious beliefs, practices, and experiences. It examines the interplay between faith, spirituality, and mental well-being from a scientific perspective. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE 301 — Theology of Ministry and Service: This course explores theological foundations for ministry, servant leadership, and vocational calling within a Christian framework. It examines biblical models of service and their contemporary relevance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 201 — Introduction to Research Methods: This course introduces students to the principles and methodologies of social science research. Topics include research design, data collection techniques, and basic statistical analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 401
• Marriage and Family Counseling
• 3
• COU 301, PSY 201
• CHR 401
• Pastoral Care and Counseling
• 3
• COU 310, MIN 201
• PSY 320
• Introduction to Psychotherapy
• 3
• COU 301, PSY 220
• BUS 101
• Introduction to Business and Management
• 3
• None
• COU 401 — Marriage and Family Counseling: This course explores theoretical approaches and practical interventions for counseling couples and families. Emphasis is placed on understanding family systems and dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR 401 — Pastoral Care and Counseling: This course focuses on the principles and practice of providing pastoral care and counseling within a congregational context. It addresses common pastoral issues and crises from a faith-informed perspective. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 320 — Introduction to Psychotherapy: This course surveys different modalities of psychotherapy, examining their theoretical underpinnings, application, and ethical considerations. Students will explore the process of therapeutic change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 101 — Introduction to Business and Management: This course provides an overview of fundamental business principles, including management, marketing, finance, and organizational behavior. It explores the functions of organizations in society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP 499
• Senior Capstone Project
• 6
• RES 201, All other core courses for the major
• COU 410
• Ethics and Professional Practice in Counseling
• 3
• COU 301, THE 201
• CHR 410
• Chaplaincy in Specialized Settings
• 3
• CHR 301
• MGT 301
• Nonprofit Management and Leadership
• 3
• BUS 101, SOC 101
• CAP 499 — Senior Capstone Project: A culminating academic experience where students synthesize knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program to complete an independent project. This project will demonstrate academic competence and faith-informed character development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU 410 — Ethics and Professional Practice in Counseling: This course examines the ethical principles, professional standards, and legal considerations relevant to counseling practice. Students will analyze ethical dilemmas and develop strategies for professional conduct. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR 410 — Chaplaincy in Specialized Settings: This course explores the unique challenges and practices of chaplaincy in specialized environments such as healthcare, corrections, or disaster response. Students will examine models of spiritual care in complex situations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT 301 — Nonprofit Management and Leadership: This course focuses on the principles and practices of leading and managing nonprofit organizations. Topics include fundraising, volunteer management, program development, and strategic planning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants to the Bachelor of Arts in Divinity, Major in Chaplaincy, Counseling, Psychology program must have successfully completed a minimum of 60 transferable credit hours from an accredited postsecondary institution, including a minimum GPA of 2.5. Applicants must also submit official transcripts, a statement of purpose articulating their vocational aspirations and alignment with the university's mission, and a letter of recommendation from a pastoral or community leader. High school graduates without prior college credit will be considered through the university's general admission process, which includes placement testing and foundational coursework. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project is a culminating academic experience designed to synthesize and demonstrate the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the Bachelor of Arts in Divinity program. This project requires students to engage in a rigorous exploration of a topic relevant to chaplaincy, counseling, or psychology, informed by a strong Christian worldview. Students will identify a specific issue or area of practice within their chosen specialization, conduct research, and develop a comprehensive project that reflects their academic competence and faith-informed character development. The scope of the capstone may include a research paper, a program proposal, a case study analysis, or a supervised practical experience with a reflective component. This project will be weighted at 6 credit hours, underscoring its significance as the program's apex. Integration of faith-based perspectives will be demonstrated through the application of ethical reasoning, servant leadership principles, biblical stewardship, and an articulated Christian worldview to the project's content and methodology. The successful completion of the Senior Capstone Project signifies a student's readiness to apply their learning ethically and effectively in service-oriented roles.

• To be eligible for graduation from the Bachelor of Arts in Divinity, Major in Chaplaincy, Counseling, Psychology program, students must fulfill several comprehensive requirements. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 must be maintained throughout the program of study. All 120 required credit hours must be successfully completed with satisfactory academic standing, including all core curriculum, major-specific courses, and electives.
• Furthermore, students must successfully complete the Senior Capstone Project, demonstrating mastery of program learning outcomes and the ability to integrate faith with academic inquiry. Beyond academic achievements, students are expected to participate in designated faith-based formation activities. These may include consistent chapel attendance, community service hours, and engagement in spiritual development opportunities as outlined by the HBIU Seminary. These requirements ensure that graduates not only possess academic rigor but also embody the ethical integrity, spiritual maturity, and commitment to servant leadership characteristic of HBI University.
• Career Opportunities
• Chaplaincy in healthcare settings
• Pastoral care roles in congregations
• Counseling support in faith-based non-profits
• Community outreach coordination
• Youth and family ministry leadership
• Crisis intervention services
• Volunteer coordination
• Advocacy for marginalized populations
• 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 Divinity, Major in Chaplaincy, Counseling, Psychology
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Divinity, Chaplaincy, Counseling, and Psychology core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I | 3 | None
• PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• THE 101 | Introduction to Christian Thought | 3 | None
• HUM 101 | Foundations of the Humanities | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II | 3 | ENG 101
• PSY 201 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
• SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• BIB 101 | Introduction to Biblical Studies | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 201 | Introduction to Counseling | 3 | PSY 101
• PSY 210 | Social Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
• THE 201 | Christian Ethics | 3 | THE 101
• HIS 101 | World Civilizations | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 301 | Theories of Counseling | 3 | COU 201, PSY 101
• PSY 220 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
• COM 201 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• MIN 201 | Introduction to Ministry | 3 | THE 101, BIB 101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 310 | Counseling Skills and Techniques | 4 | COU 301
• PSY 301 | Cognitive Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
• CHR 301 | Foundations of Chaplaincy | 3 | MIN 201
• PHI 201 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 320 | Group Counseling | 3 | COU 310
• PSY 310 | Psychology of Religion and Spirituality | 3 | PSY 101
• THE 301 | Theology of Ministry and Service | 3 | THE 201, BIB 101
• RES 201 | Introduction to Research Methods | 3 | PSY 101, SOC 101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 401 | Marriage and Family Counseling | 3 | COU 301, PSY 201
• CHR 401 | Pastoral Care and Counseling | 3 | COU 310, MIN 201
• PSY 320 | Introduction to Psychotherapy | 3 | COU 301, PSY 220
• BUS 101 | Introduction to Business and Management | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP 499 | Senior Capstone Project | 6 | RES 201, All other core courses for the major
• COU 410 | Ethics and Professional Practice in Counseling | 3 | COU 301, THE 201
• CHR 410 | Chaplaincy in Specialized Settings | 3 | CHR 301
• MGT 301 | Nonprofit Management and Leadership | 3 | BUS 101, SOC 101