Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Clinical Pastoral Education

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Clinical Pastoral Education

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 Education and Human Development

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Analyze the principles of behavioral science and social systems to address the needs of diverse populations.
• Evaluate historical and contemporary theories of pastoral care to inform personal practice.
• Integrate ethical reasoning and biblical stewardship into institutional decision-making processes.
• Demonstrate effective communication and active listening skills in individual and group settings.
• Develop a comprehensive plan for spiritual formation and self-care to sustain professional longevity.
• Apply evidence-based community engagement models to support the missions of local service organizations.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG101
• Academic Writing and Rhetoric
• 4
• None
• PSY101
• Foundations of Psychology
• 3
• None
• THE101
• Spiritual Formation and Ethics
• 3
• None
• SOC101
• Principles of Sociology
• 3
• None
• ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: This course focuses on developing foundational skills in scholarly research and formal essay composition. Students refine their analytical writing through regular practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY101 — Foundations of Psychology: An introduction to the fundamental theories and research methods within the field of psychology. Topics include perception, cognition, and behavioral foundations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE101 — Spiritual Formation and Ethics: An examination of the theological foundations of moral character and spiritual discipline. Students explore the integration of faith and personal conduct. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC101 — Principles of Sociology: A study of social structures, institutions, and interactions that shape contemporary society. Emphasis is placed on understanding community dynamics. 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
• COU101
• Interpersonal Communication
• 3
• None
• BIO120
• Human Biology
• 4
• None
• MIN110
• Introduction to Pastoral Care
• 3
• None
• MAT150 — Statistics for Behavioral Science: An introduction to descriptive and inferential statistics used in human service research. Students learn to interpret quantitative data sets. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU101 — Interpersonal Communication: This course explores the mechanics of verbal and nonverbal communication in professional helping relationships. Students practice active listening and conflict resolution. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BIO120 — Human Biology: An exploration of human biological systems and their relevance to physical health and well-being. The course connects biology to the human experience. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN110 — Introduction to Pastoral Care: An introduction to the historical and theoretical frameworks of pastoral care. Students examine the role of the helper in institutional settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• PSY210
• Developmental Psychology
• 3
• PSY101
• HIS200
• History of Christian Thought
• 3
• None
• COU220
• Crisis Intervention Strategies
• 3
• COU101
• CHR205
• Biblical Studies for Ministry
• 3
• None
• PSY210 — Developmental Psychology: A study of the human lifespan, exploring biological, cognitive, and social development. Emphasis is placed on the transitions across different age groups. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS200 — History of Christian Thought: A survey of the development of theological thought and its influence on Western society. The course highlights key intellectual movements. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU220 — Crisis Intervention Strategies: This course covers models of response to immediate human crises. Students learn to provide stabilization and support in difficult circumstances. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR205 — Biblical Studies for Ministry: An analytical study of selected biblical texts and their interpretation for modern contexts. Students develop skills in scriptural application. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• SOC250
• Social Problems and Social Policy
• 3
• SOC101
• PSY250
• Social Psychology
• 3
• PSY101
• MIN250
• Grief and Loss Counseling
• 4
• MIN110
• BUS200
• Nonprofit Management
• 3
• None
• SOC250 — Social Problems and Social Policy: A critical analysis of contemporary social issues and the policy frameworks designed to address them. Students evaluate community impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY250 — Social Psychology: An exploration of how individual behavior is influenced by social groups and environments. Topics include group dynamics and influence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN250 — Grief and Loss Counseling: This course examines the psychological and spiritual dimensions of loss. Students explore best practices for accompanying individuals through bereavement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS200 — Nonprofit Management: An introduction to the operational management of nonprofit organizations. Topics include governance, fundraising, and mission fulfillment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES300
• Research Methods
• 3
• MAT150
• COU310
• Counseling Theory and Practice
• 3
• COU101
• EDU320
• Principles of Adult Education
• 3
• None
• MIN330
• Ethics in Pastoral Care
• 4
• THE101
• RES300 — Research Methods: An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods. Students learn to evaluate evidence to inform their professional practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU310 — Counseling Theory and Practice: A deep dive into common theoretical models used in the counseling profession. Students compare different approaches to supporting others. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU320 — Principles of Adult Education: This course explores how adults learn and how to facilitate educational programs within community settings. Students develop training materials. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN330 — Ethics in Pastoral Care: A rigorous examination of ethical codes, professional boundaries, and moral dilemmas in pastoral care. Students apply principles of ethical stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• PSY350
• Group Dynamics
• 3
• PSY250
• SOC360
• Community Organizing
• 3
• SOC250
• COU350
• Trauma-Informed Care
• 3
• COU220
• MIN380
• Systems of Ministry
• 3
• MIN110
• PSY350 — Group Dynamics: An analysis of the processes that shape small group behavior and development. Students learn to facilitate healthy group interactions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC360 — Community Organizing: A study of methods for mobilizing communities to achieve shared goals and social change. Students identify community assets and needs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU350 — Trauma-Informed Care: An examination of the effects of trauma on the individual and the community. Students learn appropriate, sensitive response strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN380 — Systems of Ministry: This course explores the complex social systems and organizational structures in which pastoral care is delivered. Students analyze systems theory. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU410
• Advanced Pastoral Counseling
• 4
• COU310
• MGT420
• Servant Leadership and Stewardship
• 3
• BUS200
• MIN440
• Cross-Cultural Ministry
• 3
• SOC101
• HUM400
• Contemporary Ethical Issues
• 3
• THE101
• COU410 — Advanced Pastoral Counseling: Advanced techniques for counseling within a pastoral context. Students integrate theoretical understanding with practical, supervised scenarios. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT420 — Servant Leadership and Stewardship: An exploration of servant leadership models and the responsible management of institutional resources. Students develop personal leadership philosophies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN440 — Cross-Cultural Ministry: A study of cultural competence and humility in the delivery of service. Students evaluate their own cultural biases and learn best practices. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM400 — Contemporary Ethical Issues: A final exploration of complex ethical dilemmas facing professionals in the human services today. Focus is on integrated decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP490
• Senior Capstone Project
• 4
• RES300
• COU450
• Professionalism in Practice
• 3
• None
• MIN480
• Integrated Pastoral Care Internship
• 3
• MIN440
• SOC490
• Applied Sociology and Ethics
• 3
• SOC360
• CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project where students design and propose an intervention for a specific organizational challenge. This project reflects the synthesis of academic and faith-informed principles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU450 — Professionalism in Practice: A review of professional expectations, self-care, and legal considerations in the field. Students prepare for their transition to the workforce. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN480 — Integrated Pastoral Care Internship: Supervised experience in a clinical or community site where students observe and practice pastoral care skills. Students report on their activities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC490 — Applied Sociology and Ethics: A final analysis of how social research and ethics intersect to guide community intervention. Students finalize their service portfolios. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must provide evidence of graduation from an accredited high school or possess a recognized equivalent credential. A minimum high school GPA of 2.5 is recommended, and applicants should submit a statement of intent detailing their commitment to ethical service, community engagement, and their personal alignment with the university’s mission. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended postsecondary institutions for evaluation. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience of the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Clinical Pastoral Education, requiring 4 credit hours of dedicated research and field application. Students are tasked with identifying a specific need within a community or clinical organization and designing an intervention or research proposal that addresses that need through the lens of faith-informed practice. This project allows students to synthesize their learning across all disciplines to produce a professional portfolio demonstrating advanced academic competence. The project emphasizes the integration of servant leadership and ethical reasoning as students navigate complex institutional landscapes. Beyond the academic deliverable, students must present a reflective essay detailing how their research has fostered their own spiritual formation and deepened their commitment to biblical stewardship. This process ensures that graduates are prepared to apply their knowledge with integrity, demonstrating a profound readiness for professional engagement in service-oriented contexts.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. All students must complete the prescribed curriculum, including the Senior Capstone Project, with a passing grade. Mastery of the subject matter is measured through standard assessments, as well as an evaluation of the student's ability to demonstrate professional character and ethical decision-making throughout their coursework.
• Beyond academic requirements, students must demonstrate ongoing commitment to their spiritual development through active participation in university community service initiatives and spiritual formation requirements. Graduation serves as a formal recognition of the student's holistic preparation—pairing professional academic achievement with a mature faith-informed worldview. Graduates are expected to leave the institution not only with the requisite knowledge for their field but also with the personal integrity and servant heart necessary to engage in meaningful community service.
• Career Opportunities
• Chaplaincy Assistant
• Nonprofit Community Liaison
• Pastoral Care Coordinator
• Behavioral Health Support Specialist
• Human Services Case Manager
• Faith-Based Program Manager
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Important Notices
• The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
• HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
• HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
• Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
• The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
• Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
• Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
• This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
• Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
• Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
• Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
• Degree abbreviation | B.S. in Faith-Based Clinical Pastoral Education
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Clinical pastoral education core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 4 | None
• PSY101 | Foundations of Psychology | 3 | None
• THE101 | Spiritual Formation and Ethics | 3 | None
• SOC101 | Principles of Sociology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MAT150 | Statistics for Behavioral Science | 3 | None
• COU101 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• BIO120 | Human Biology | 4 | None
• MIN110 | Introduction to Pastoral Care | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PSY210 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | PSY101
• HIS200 | History of Christian Thought | 3 | None
• COU220 | Crisis Intervention Strategies | 3 | COU101
• CHR205 | Biblical Studies for Ministry | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC250 | Social Problems and Social Policy | 3 | SOC101
• PSY250 | Social Psychology | 3 | PSY101
• MIN250 | Grief and Loss Counseling | 4 | MIN110
• BUS200 | Nonprofit Management | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES300 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT150
• COU310 | Counseling Theory and Practice | 3 | COU101
• EDU320 | Principles of Adult Education | 3 | None
• MIN330 | Ethics in Pastoral Care | 4 | THE101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PSY350 | Group Dynamics | 3 | PSY250
• SOC360 | Community Organizing | 3 | SOC250
• COU350 | Trauma-Informed Care | 3 | COU220
• MIN380 | Systems of Ministry | 3 | MIN110
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU410 | Advanced Pastoral Counseling | 4 | COU310
• MGT420 | Servant Leadership and Stewardship | 3 | BUS200
• MIN440 | Cross-Cultural Ministry | 3 | SOC101
• HUM400 | Contemporary Ethical Issues | 3 | THE101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES300
• COU450 | Professionalism in Practice | 3 | None
• MIN480 | Integrated Pastoral Care Internship | 3 | MIN440
• SOC490 | Applied Sociology and Ethics | 3 | SOC360