Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Journalism

Academic unitHBIU College of Communication and MediaTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Journalism

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Journalism core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Journalism provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles of investigative reporting, media ethics, and digital storytelling within the context of Christian service and community stewardship. Students examine the role of information dissemination as a tool for social improvement, fostering transparency, and amplifying the voices of underserved populations. Through a rigorous academic curriculum, learners engage with the technical skills of modern journalism while grounding their practice in a framework of integrity, empathy, and professional responsibility. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, nuanced communication, and a commitment to truth as a means of servant leadership in a globalized, information-rich society. By bridging technical competency with theological reflection, the curriculum equips students to navigate complex media landscapes with a consistent, faith-informed ethical compass. Graduates are prepared to navigate the professional challenges of the media industry while remaining steadfast in their commitment to serving the common good and upholding the dignity of all individuals.

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Journalism program combines a rigorous general education foundation with a comprehensive study of journalistic theory, media ethics, communication behavioral science, and the development of faith-centered storytelling. Students engage in research, media crisis awareness, community engagement strategies, and the technical application of journalism within various ministry and public-facing organizations.

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 Science. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation: B.S. in Faith-Based Journalism
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 Communication and Media
Total credits: 120
Duration: 4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

Apply ethical principles and biblical discernment to news gathering and reporting processes.
Analyze the impact of digital media technologies on modern social and community landscapes.
Design and produce professional-quality multimedia reports across various digital platforms.
Evaluate media bias and cultural trends through the lens of a Christian worldview.
Demonstrate proficiency in investigative techniques that uphold journalistic accuracy and integrity.
Communicate complex social issues in a manner that fosters dialogue and community engagement.
Integrate servant leadership into collaborative projects and newsroom operations.
Course Outline
Semester 1 — Year 1
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
ENG101
Academic Composition
4
None
COM110
Foundations of Journalism
4
None
PHI101
Introduction to Critical Thinking and Logic
4
None
HIS105
World History I
4
None
ENG101 — Academic Composition: This course focuses on advanced rhetoric and structured analytical writing techniques. Students develop the skills necessary to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM110 — Foundations of Journalism: This course introduces the history, ethics, and fundamental techniques of reporting in a modern digital landscape. Students analyze the role of the journalist in a democratic and moral society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PHI101 — Introduction to Critical Thinking and Logic: This course explores the fundamental principles of logical reasoning, argument analysis, and the evaluation of evidence in academic and professional contexts. Students learn to identify fallacies and construct sound arguments for diverse public discourse. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS105 — World History I: This course examines the social, political, and cultural developments of ancient civilizations. It provides a broad context for contemporary global issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 2 — Year 1
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COM120
Digital Storytelling
4
COM110
SOC101
Principles of Sociology
4
None
MAT150
Quantitative Reasoning
4
None
ENG102
Advanced Research Writing
4
ENG101
COM120 — Digital Storytelling: This course explores the technical and narrative elements of visual and audio reporting in a digital media environment. Students learn to use industry-standard software to construct compelling narratives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC101 — Principles of Sociology: This course offers an overview of social structures, institutions, and human interactions. It emphasizes understanding the needs of diverse community populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
MAT150 — Quantitative Reasoning: This course applies mathematical logic to the analysis of data and societal trends. Students gain proficiency in evaluating statistical information accurately. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
ENG102 — Advanced Research Writing: This course builds upon foundational writing skills by focusing on investigative research methodologies and formal reporting. Students practice synthesizing multiple sources into cohesive long-form pieces. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 3 — Year 2
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COM210
Reporting and Newsgathering
4
COM110
COM220
Media Law and Ethics
4
COM110
PSY101
General Psychology
4
None
SOC200
Principles of Community Engagement
4
THE101
COM210 — Reporting and Newsgathering: This course provides practical training in interviewing techniques, source development, and field reporting. It emphasizes the importance of journalistic objectivity and fairness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM220 — Media Law and Ethics: This course investigates the legal landscape of journalism and the ethical dilemmas inherent in contemporary reporting. Students explore frameworks for making principled editorial decisions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
PSY101 — General Psychology: This course examines the principles of human behavior and mental processes. Understanding human cognition aids in effective communication and empathy in reporting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC200 — Principles of Community Engagement: Students examine the dynamics of volunteer management, civic participation, and service-oriented leadership in secular and community settings. The course focuses on strategies for building institutional capacity through effective service initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 4 — Year 2
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COM250
Multimedia Editing
4
COM120
BUS200
Nonprofit Management Foundations
4
None
COM260
Feature Writing
4
ENG102
LAW210
Values and Public Policy
4
THE101
COM250 — Multimedia Editing: This course focuses on the editorial process for digital and print media, including fact-checking and layout design. Students refine their ability to prepare content for diverse audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS200 — Nonprofit Management Foundations: This course provides an overview of the operations, governance, and financial stewardship within nonprofit organizations. It bridges the gap between media outreach and organizational sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM260 — Feature Writing: This course focuses on narrative techniques in journalism, teaching students how to write compelling human-interest profiles. It emphasizes the art of storytelling for a purpose-driven readership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
LAW210 — Values and Public Policy: This course provides an overview of the intersection between moral theory and contemporary public policy debates. It evaluates how societal values inform legislative decision-making and the ethical obligations of public organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 5 — Year 3
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COM310
Investigative Reporting
4
COM210
COM320
Public Relations for Organizations
4
COM120
HIS300
Contemporary Issues in Media
4
HIS105
RES300
Communication Research Methods
4
MAT150
COM310 — Investigative Reporting: This course emphasizes advanced methods of digging into public documents, data sets, and community records. Students work on long-form reports aimed at transparency and social justice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM320 — Public Relations for Organizations: This course covers the strategic communication practices used by nonprofits to share their missions and impact. Students learn to manage organizational identity through ethical advocacy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
HIS300 — Contemporary Issues in Media: This course analyzes the impact of recent media developments on social and cultural life. It encourages a critical evaluation of media influence on societal norms. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES300 — Communication Research Methods: This course provides training in academic and empirical research methodologies. It prepares students for advanced analytical work in the communication field. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 6 — Year 3
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COM350
Social Media Strategy
4
COM250
COM360
Advanced Visual Reporting
4
COM120
BUS310
Marketing and Donor Relations
4
BUS200
EDU320
Foundations of Intercultural Communication
4
SOC101
COM350 — Social Media Strategy: This course focuses on building online engagement through strategic content distribution and community management. Students learn to use digital tools to expand the reach of mission-driven information. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM360 — Advanced Visual Reporting: This course builds on previous multimedia skills, focusing on photojournalism and video documentary techniques. It emphasizes visual storytelling as an instrument of social documentation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS310 — Marketing and Donor Relations: This course examines the communication strategies involved in building support for nonprofit initiatives. Students explore the ethics of communication in development and institutional outreach. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
EDU320 — Foundations of Intercultural Communication: This course explores the nuances of communicating across cultural and social divides. It emphasizes the importance of empathetic listening and cultural awareness in reporting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
Semester 7 — Year 4
Code
Title
Credits
Prerequisites
COM410
Global Reporting Perspectives
4
COM310
COM420
Crisis Communication
4
COM320
SOC400
Sociology of Cultural Ethics
4
CHR210
RES400
Senior Research Seminar
4
RES300
COM410 — Global Reporting Perspectives: This course examines the nuances of international journalism and the ethical role of the reporter in a globalized context. It emphasizes sensitivity toward international conflicts and humanitarian issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM420 — Crisis Communication: This course provides training in effective communication during organizational or social crises. Students learn to maintain transparency and truthfulness in high-pressure situations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
SOC400 — Sociology of Cultural Ethics: This course analyzes how ethical frameworks develop and persist within various cultures and professional environments. Students will evaluate the influence of cultural norms on organizational behavior and societal standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
RES400 — Senior Research Seminar: This seminar guides students through the initial stages of their senior investigative project, focusing on topic selection, research design, and source acquisition. It prepares the foundation for the final capstone project. 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
RES400
COM450
Professional Newsroom Seminar
4
COM410
BUS420
Leadership and Organizational Strategy
4
BUS310
BUS450
Professional Development and Organizational Alignment
4
MIN200
CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: This culminating project requires students to execute an in-depth investigative or multimedia journalism piece that addresses a significant social or community issue. Students synthesize their technical, ethical, and spiritual formation in this final work. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
COM450 — Professional Newsroom Seminar: This course provides a simulated environment for managing editorial workflow and upholding professional standards. Students learn to operate as collaborative team members in a professional setting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS420 — Leadership and Organizational Strategy: This course examines the principles of servant leadership and administrative strategy within mission-driven environments. Students gain insights into guiding organizations with integrity and vision. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
BUS450 — Professional Development and Organizational Alignment: This seminar focuses on professional identity, career sustainability, and the alignment of personal values with organizational objectives in the nonprofit sector. Students develop strategies for long-term career success and ethical leadership within community-based institutions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students are required to submit official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining their commitment to ethical journalistic practice, and a letter of recommendation from an academic or professional mentor. Candidates should demonstrate a proficiency in written English and an aptitude for critical analysis consistent with collegiate-level communication standards. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating scholarly endeavor, requiring students to synthesize their journalistic education through the production of a significant long-form investigative or multi-media report. Students identify a pressing social issue and apply rigorous research methodologies, ethical discernment, and narrative craft to deliver a comprehensive project that adheres to professional industry standards. The project emphasizes the student's ability to navigate complex ethical dilemmas while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and stewardship of information. Beyond demonstrating technical proficiency, the Capstone integrates faith-based perspectives by requiring students to reflect on how their journalistic work serves the community and reflects a Christian commitment to truth. This reflective component ensures that students articulate the intersection of their professional skills and their spiritual formation, demonstrating both academic rigor and the character of a servant leader. The project is weighted at 4 credit hours and is evaluated based on the quality of investigative depth, the clarity of the communicative message, and the evidence of mature ethical application.

Protected Curriculum

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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.

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Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. In addition to core academic requirements, students must demonstrate spiritual maturity and readiness for service through the successful completion of specified community engagement hours and regular participation in university-sponsored spiritual formation activities. These requirements ensure that graduates possess not only technical knowledge but also the integrity and character necessary to serve in their chosen fields. Students must complete the Senior Capstone Project with a passing grade and provide evidence of professional-level journalistic standards. Through this holistic approach, the university confirms that each graduate is prepared to enter their career path with a commitment to both academic excellence and the ethical principles of their faith, manifesting a readiness for faith-informed service to the broader society.
Career Opportunities
Nonprofit Communications Director
Investigative Reporter
Digital Content Strategist
Public Relations Specialist for Faith-Based Agencies
Multimedia Storyteller
Editorial Researcher
Community Advocacy 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 Journalism
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years
General education | 36 credit hours
Faith-Based Journalism core | 63 credit hours
Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
ENG101 | Academic Composition | 4 | None
COM110 | Foundations of Journalism | 4 | None
PHI101 | Introduction to Critical Thinking and Logic | 4 | None
HIS105 | World History I | 4 | None
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM120 | Digital Storytelling | 4 | COM110
SOC101 | Principles of Sociology | 4 | None
MAT150 | Quantitative Reasoning | 4 | None
ENG102 | Advanced Research Writing | 4 | ENG101
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM210 | Reporting and Newsgathering | 4 | COM110
COM220 | Media Law and Ethics | 4 | COM110
PSY101 | General Psychology | 4 | None
SOC200 | Principles of Community Engagement | 4 | THE101
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM250 | Multimedia Editing | 4 | COM120
BUS200 | Nonprofit Management Foundations | 4 | None
COM260 | Feature Writing | 4 | ENG102
LAW210 | Values and Public Policy | 4 | THE101
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM310 | Investigative Reporting | 4 | COM210
COM320 | Public Relations for Organizations | 4 | COM120
HIS300 | Contemporary Issues in Media | 4 | HIS105
RES300 | Communication Research Methods | 4 | MAT150
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM350 | Social Media Strategy | 4 | COM250
COM360 | Advanced Visual Reporting | 4 | COM120
BUS310 | Marketing and Donor Relations | 4 | BUS200
EDU320 | Foundations of Intercultural Communication | 4 | SOC101
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
COM410 | Global Reporting Perspectives | 4 | COM310
COM420 | Crisis Communication | 4 | COM320
SOC400 | Sociology of Cultural Ethics | 4 | CHR210
RES400 | Senior Research Seminar | 4 | RES300
Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES400
COM450 | Professional Newsroom Seminar | 4 | COM410
BUS420 | Leadership and Organizational Strategy | 4 | BUS310
BUS450 | Professional Development and Organizational Alignment | 4 | MIN200

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

Nonprofit Communications Director
Investigative Reporter
Digital Content Strategist
Public Relations Specialist for Faith-Based Agencies
Multimedia Storyteller
Editorial Researcher
Community Advocacy Coordinator

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.S. in Faith-Based Journalism
Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time | Four academic years