Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Human Services (Addictions Concentration) Community Outreach

Academic unitHBIU College of Addiction CounselingTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Human Services

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-based human services core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Human Services with an Addictions Concentration is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective service in diverse community settings. The curriculum integrates the social sciences with ethical frameworks, preparing graduates to address the complexities of substance abuse and social vulnerability through a lens of compassion, stewardship, and systemic understanding. By combining rigorous academic inquiry with a focus on servant leadership, the program fosters a holistic approach to human development and community support. Students engage in critical analysis of behavioral health, policy development, and the dynamics of addiction, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the challenges inherent in human services. The program emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the application of evidence-based practices, grounded in the values of integrity and human dignity. Through a blend of foundational humanities and specialized counseling-focused coursework, students gain the competency needed to serve individuals and families effectively within their unique social and cultural contexts.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Human Services (Addictions Concentration) Community Outreach program combines a robust foundation in general education with a comprehensive study of theory, behavioral science, human development, professional ethics, and research methodology. The curriculum further emphasizes practical competencies in crisis awareness, referral coordination, program development, and community-based support strategies to prepare students for diverse service environments.

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 Human Services
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 Addiction Counseling
Total credits: 120
Duration: 4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

Analyze the bio-psycho-social factors contributing to substance use disorders through the application of multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks.
Apply ethical decision-making models to address the complex moral and professional dilemmas encountered in community human services.
Design comprehensive outreach strategies that demonstrate servant leadership and effective stewardship of community resources.
Evaluate the impact of socioeconomic and spiritual factors on the recovery and rehabilitation processes of individuals and families.
Communicate professional findings and research outcomes clearly through academic writing and oral presentation.
Integrate Christian worldview principles into the practice of human services to promote holistic wellness and character development.
Demonstrate proficiency in case management and community advocacy by assessing service gaps and developing sustainable support interventions.
Course Outline
Semester 1 — Year 1
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
ENG101
Academic Writing and Rhetoric
3
None
PSY101
Introduction to Psychology
4
None
SOC101
Introduction to Sociology
3
None
PSY105
Foundations of Personal Development
3
None
ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: Focuses on the development of critical thinking and written expression. Students analyze various texts and practice the craft of scholarly research and argumentationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
PSY101 — Introduction to Psychology: Provides a foundation in the psychological sciences including development, learning, and behavioral health. Explores the mechanisms of human behavior in social contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
SOC101 — Introduction to Sociology: Examines the structures of society and how they influence individual behavior. Focuses on social institutions and the dynamics of community interactionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
PSY105 — Foundations of Personal Development: This course explores psychological theories regarding self-actualization, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal growth. It examines the mechanisms behind personal goal setting and professional wellness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 2 — Year 1
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
MAT150
Statistics for Behavioral Science
3
None
COU105
Theories of Human Development
3
PSY101
COM120
Interpersonal Communication
3
None
MIN110
Ethics in Service
4
THE101
MAT150 — Statistics for Behavioral Science: Covers descriptive and inferential statistics used in social science research. Emphasis is placed on data interpretation in a human services contextThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
COU105 — Theories of Human Development: Explores the life-span approach to human development, examining biological, cognitive, and social milestones. Integrates understanding of healthy growth stagesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
COM120 — Interpersonal Communication: Teaches effective listening and verbal communication skills necessary for professional interactions. Focuses on conflict resolution and empathyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
MIN110 — Ethics in Service: Discusses moral philosophy and its practical application in the professional sphere. Focuses on the role of integrity and responsibility in stewardship of human resourcesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
Semester 3 — Year 2
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
BIO210
Biological Bases of Behavior
3
PSY101
COU201
Introduction to Addictions
4
PSY101
SOC220
Social Problems and Issues
3
SOC101
HIS205
History of Social Welfare
3
None
BIO210 — Biological Bases of Behavior: Investigates the physiological foundations of the human experience. Explores how neurological systems interact with environmental stressorsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
COU201 — Introduction to Addictions: Provides an overview of substance use disorders and the historical context of addiction recovery. Explores societal and personal impacts of addictive behaviorsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
SOC220 — Social Problems and Issues: Analyzes contemporary social concerns including poverty, crime, and inequality. Discusses the role of outreach in community stabilizationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
HIS205 — History of Social Welfare: Reviews the historical development of social programs and the evolution of the human services profession. Highlights the role of institutional philanthropyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
Semester 4 — Year 2
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COU210
Principles of Counseling
3
COU105
RES250
Research Methods
3
MAT150
SOC230
Principles of Human Rights and Advocacy
3
THE101
BUS210
Nonprofit Management
4
None
COU210 — Principles of Counseling: Covers basic interviewing techniques and the counseling relationship. Focuses on building rapport and facilitating change in a nonclinical support roleThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
RES250 — Research Methods: Introduces methodologies for conducting inquiry in the social sciences. Students learn to critique published research and design small-scale projectsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
SOC230 — Principles of Human Rights and Advocacy: This course analyzes the historical and sociological development of human rights frameworks and their application in civil society. It focuses on the protection of vulnerable populations through legal and ethical standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS210 — Nonprofit Management: Provides an introduction to organizational management, fiscal stewardship, and operational oversight within non-profit community organizationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
Semester 5 — Year 3
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COU305
Addiction and the Family System
3
COU201
SOC310
Community Outreach and Advocacy
3
SOC220
CRJ320
Legal Aspects of Human Services
3
None
PSY330
Crisis Intervention
4
COU210
COU305 — Addiction and the Family System: Explores how addiction affects the family dynamic and intergenerational patterns. Discusses supportive interventions for co-dependent systemsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
SOC310 — Community Outreach and Advocacy: Focuses on the skills needed for community organizing and public awareness. Teaches how to advocate for resources and policy improvementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
CRJ320 — Legal Aspects of Human Services: Covers the legal requirements for human services practitioners, including mandatory reporting and duty to warn. Addresses regulatory standardsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
PSY330 — Crisis Intervention: Examines methodologies for managing acute crisis situations in community settings. Focuses on stabilization and referral to appropriate careThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
Semester 6 — Year 3
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COU350
Group Facilitation Dynamics
3
COU210
EDU310
Program Planning and Evaluation
3
RES250
CHR350
Servant Leadership in Practice
3
CHR230
MGT320
Volunteer Coordination
4
BUS210
COU350 — Group Facilitation Dynamics: Studies the mechanics of group interaction in the context of support settings. Covers leadership strategies and the management of group processesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
EDU310 — Program Planning and Evaluation: Teaches the design, implementation, and assessment of community-based service programs. Focuses on measurable outcomes and service efficacyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
CHR350 — Servant Leadership in Practice: Examines the characteristics of leadership that prioritize the growth and well-being of others. Discusses the application of leadership in community servicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
MGT320 — Volunteer Coordination: Explores strategies for recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers in community settings. Discusses the ethics of stewardship in volunteer managementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
Semester 7 — Year 4
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COU410
Advanced Intervention Strategies
3
COU305
SOC420
Cultural Competency in Service
3
SOC310
RES400
Applied Research Seminar
3
RES250
HUM405
Ethics in Public Policy
4
CRJ320
COU410 — Advanced Intervention Strategies: Delves into evidence-based models for working with complex behavioral health issues. Focuses on long-term recovery support planningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
SOC420 — Cultural Competency in Service: Examines the role of culture and social identity in human service delivery. Promotes effective communication across diverse cultural populationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
RES400 — Applied Research Seminar: Provides guidance in the preliminary development of the senior capstone project. Students draft proposals and conduct initial researchThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
HUM405 — Ethics in Public Policy: Analyzes the ethical implications of public policy on vulnerable populations. Encourages the evaluation of systemic structures through a restorative lensThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
Semester 8 — Year 4
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
CAP490
Senior Capstone Project
4
RES400
COU450
Contemporary Issues in Addictions
3
COU410
SOC420
Principles of Restorative Justice
3
CHR350
EDU430
Professional Readiness Seminar
3
None
CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The culmination of the academic program, requiring students to design and present a comprehensive community-based intervention. Emphasizes integration of research and servant leadershipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
COU450 — Contemporary Issues in Addictions: Discusses current trends and emerging challenges in the addictions field. Integrates discussions on public policy, technology, and service innovationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
SOC420 — Principles of Restorative Justice: This course examines the theory and practice of restorative justice models used to address social harm and community conflict. Students evaluate the effectiveness of community-based interventions compared to traditional punitive approaches. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU430 — Professional Readiness Seminar: Prepares students for entering the workforce. Includes focus on professional identity, networking, and the sustaining of personal and professional integrityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Prospective students must possess a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants are required to submit an official transcript, a personal statement regarding their vocational interest in human services, and two letters of recommendation that speak to their character and academic potential. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the final academic demonstration of a student's proficiency, requiring the design of a community-based intervention project addressing a specific need within the field of addictions or human services. Students are expected to conduct a comprehensive literature review, identify an area for improvement, and develop a feasible project plan that reflects both rigorous academic research and the practical application of their disciplinary expertise. The project emphasizes the integration of faith-based perspectives by requiring students to justify their strategies through the lens of ethical responsibility, stewardship, and servant leadership. Each student will present their project to a faculty committee, articulating the alignment between their proposed outcomes and the core values of human dignity and social restoration. This project represents the synthesis of the student's four-year educational journey and serves as a formal bridge between academic preparation and professional practice. By connecting theoretical knowledge with real-world exigencies, the capstone ensures that graduates can translate their convictions into meaningful, faith-informed action within their communities.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

The complete HBIU curriculum is protected.

Program titles, descriptions, outcomes, admissions information, and career opportunities remain available publicly. The official semester-by-semester course sequence, credits, prerequisites, and internal curriculum requirements are available to verified applicants, enrolled students, and authorized university personnel.

Apply to HBIU →

Request program information →

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

To qualify for graduation, students must successfully complete 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. In addition to core academic requirements, students must demonstrate satisfactory completion of the Senior Capstone Project, confirming their readiness for professional service. Furthermore, students are expected to participate in designated spiritual formation activities, including regular chapel attendance and community service hours, which serve to cultivate the character and empathy essential for the human services field. Graduation signifies not only the fulfillment of academic credit, but also the achievement of a standard of ethical integrity and spiritual maturity consistent with the institution's commitment to service and leadership.
Career Opportunities
Addiction Outreach Coordinator
Community Case Manager
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Nonprofit Program Director
Family Support Liaison
Human Services Advocate
Residential Recovery Support 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 | B.A. in Faith-Based Human Services
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years
General education | 36 credit hours
Faith-based human services core | 63 credit hours
Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
PSY105 | Foundations of Personal Development | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
MAT150 | Statistics for Behavioral Science | 3 | None
COU105 | Theories of Human Development | 3 | PSY101
COM120 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
MIN110 | Ethics in Service | 4 | THE101
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
BIO210 | Biological Bases of Behavior | 3 | PSY101
COU201 | Introduction to Addictions | 4 | PSY101
SOC220 | Social Problems and Issues | 3 | SOC101
HIS205 | History of Social Welfare | 3 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COU210 | Principles of Counseling | 3 | COU105
RES250 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT150
SOC230 | Principles of Human Rights and Advocacy | 3 | THE101
BUS210 | Nonprofit Management | 4 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COU305 | Addiction and the Family System | 3 | COU201
SOC310 | Community Outreach and Advocacy | 3 | SOC220
CRJ320 | Legal Aspects of Human Services | 3 | None
PSY330 | Crisis Intervention | 4 | COU210
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COU350 | Group Facilitation Dynamics | 3 | COU210
EDU310 | Program Planning and Evaluation | 3 | RES250
CHR350 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | CHR230
MGT320 | Volunteer Coordination | 4 | BUS210
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COU410 | Advanced Intervention Strategies | 3 | COU305
SOC420 | Cultural Competency in Service | 3 | SOC310
RES400 | Applied Research Seminar | 3 | RES250
HUM405 | Ethics in Public Policy | 4 | CRJ320
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES400
COU450 | Contemporary Issues in Addictions | 3 | COU410
SOC420 | Principles of Restorative Justice | 3 | CHR350
EDU430 | Professional Readiness Seminar | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Addiction Outreach Coordinator
Community Case Manager
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Nonprofit Program Director
Family Support Liaison
Human Services Advocate
Residential Recovery Support 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 | B.A. in Faith-Based Human Services
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years