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Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Counseling Psychology Specialization in Christian Helping Ministries Pastoral Care

Academic unitHBIU College of Behavioral Social ScienceTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Counseling Psychology

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Counseling Psychology core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Christian Helping Ministries and Pastoral Care provides a rigorous academic foundation in the behavioral sciences while emphasizing the integration of psychological theory with principles of servant leadership. The program explores human development, social dynamics, and the psychological dimensions of well-being within the context of interpersonal support and community service. Students engage with foundational psychological frameworks, ethical decision-making models, and evidence-based interpersonal communication strategies suitable for helping ministries. By bridging academic inquiry with ethical and spiritual formation, the curriculum prepares students to navigate the complexities of human behavior through a lens of compassion, stewardship, and academic excellence. The program cultivates a deep understanding of the diverse factors influencing individual and communal health, fostering an environment where rigorous empirical study meets the practical application of pastoral and social care. Graduates are prepared to contribute effectively to various humanitarian, educational, and service-oriented organizations that prioritize holistic human development and community engagement.

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Counseling Psychology program combines a foundational general education curriculum with a comprehensive study of counseling theory, behavioral science, human development, ethical standards, and research methodologies. The program provides students with essential knowledge in crisis awareness, effective referral practices, program development, and the implementation of community-based support services within a pastoral care context.

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 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 College of Behavioral Social Science
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze psychological theories to explain human behavior and interpersonal relationships across the lifespan.
  • Apply ethical principles and professional standards to decision-making in counseling and pastoral environments.
  • Evaluate the impact of sociocultural and environmental factors on individual and group wellness.
  • Demonstrate effective communication skills necessary for supportive, helping-oriented interpersonal dynamics.
  • Integrate Christian worldview perspectives and principles of stewardship into professional and community service roles.
  • Design an evidence-informed capstone project that addresses a specific need within a community or organizational context.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 101
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG 101
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • 3
  • None
  • THE 101
  • Foundations of Christian Thought
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC 101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: An overview of the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Topics include biological bases of behavior, perception, learning, and cognitionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG 101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: Focuses on developing proficient academic writing skills through the exploration of various rhetorical modes. Students learn to construct evidence-based argumentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • THE 101 — Foundations of Christian Thought: An exploration of historical and contemporary theological foundations. Emphasis is placed on the integration of faith and critical inquiryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: Explores the fundamental concepts of social structures, culture, and human interaction. Focuses on the dynamics of group life and societal developmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 150
  • Lifespan Development
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • COM 120
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT 150
  • Statistics for Behavioral Science
  • 4
  • None
  • MIN 101
  • Introduction to Pastoral Care
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 150 — Lifespan Development: Examines physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development from conception to death. Provides insight into the changing needs of individuals across the life cycleThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM 120 — Interpersonal Communication: Studies the dynamics of human communication in small groups and one-on-one settings. Develops strategies for effective listening and conflict resolutionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MAT 150 — Statistics for Behavioral Science: Introduces statistical methods and their application to psychological research. Covers descriptive statistics, probability, and inferential testingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN 101 — Introduction to Pastoral Care: Surveys the history and practice of pastoral care within institutional and community settings. Introduces the role of the helper in crisis interventionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 210
  • Social Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • COU 201
  • Helping Skills and Ethics
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • HIS 205
  • World History of Religions
  • 3
  • None
  • BIO 200
  • Biological Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • PSY 210 — Social Psychology: Analyzes how individuals influence and are influenced by social contexts. Discusses topics such as conformity, group behavior, and social cognitionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COU 201 — Helping Skills and Ethics: Explores foundational micro-skills in a supportive framework. Emphasizes the ethical considerations required for professional and ministry-based careThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS 205 — World History of Religions: Provides a comprehensive overview of global religious traditions. Fosters an understanding of diverse perspectives in service environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BIO 200 — Biological Psychology: Examines the physiological basis of human behavior, including the nervous system and brain function. Links biological factors to psychological healthThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 250
  • Personality Theory
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • COU 220
  • Introduction to Group Dynamics
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • CHR 210
  • Ethics and Stewardship
  • 3
  • THE 101
  • RES 250
  • Research Methods
  • 4
  • MAT 150
  • PSY 250 — Personality Theory: Analyzes primary theoretical models of personality, including psychodynamic, trait, and humanistic perspectives. Evaluates their utility in modern applicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COU 220 — Introduction to Group Dynamics: Explores the theory and practice of facilitating small groups. Focuses on leadership styles and healthy communication within community teamsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR 210 — Ethics and Stewardship: Examines ethical frameworks and the concept of stewardship in professional practice. Applies these principles to resource management and community careThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES 250 — Research Methods: Comprehensive study of research design, data collection, and ethical research conduct. Prepares students for the senior capstone research requirementsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 301
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • COU 310
  • Family Systems Theory
  • 3
  • PSY 150
  • MIN 305
  • Ministry and Community Service
  • 3
  • MIN 101
  • PSY 320
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • PSY 301 — Cognitive Psychology: Investigates human memory, perception, and problem-solving. Explores how cognitive processes influence behavior and decision-makingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COU 310 — Family Systems Theory: Examines the dynamics of family units and their influence on development. Covers assessment techniques and support strategies for familial well-beingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN 305 — Ministry and Community Service: Focuses on the practical application of serving marginalized or underserved populations. Emphasizes organizational leadership and community networkingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 320 — Abnormal Psychology: Provides an overview of various behavioral and mental health challenges. Analyzes current research and historical perspectives on human distressThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU 350
  • Crisis Intervention and Support
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • SOC 310
  • Social Justice and Inequality
  • 3
  • SOC 101
  • BUS 300
  • Organizational Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 360
  • Advanced Research Practicum
  • 4
  • RES 250
  • COU 350 — Crisis Intervention and Support: Prepares students to handle high-stress situations using established intervention protocols. Focuses on stability and short-term support mechanismsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 310 — Social Justice and Inequality: Critically examines the intersections of race, class, and gender in social systems. Encourages the development of advocacy-oriented service modelsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS 300 — Organizational Leadership: Examines models of effective leadership within organizations. Focuses on team development, decision-making, and organizational stewardshipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 360 — Advanced Research Practicum: Provides supervised experience in applying research methodologies. Students design and conduct a pilot study related to community careThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU 410
  • Addiction and Recovery
  • 3
  • PSY 320
  • MIN 400
  • Advanced Pastoral Counseling Theory
  • 3
  • MIN 101
  • EDU 420
  • Adult Learning and Mentorship
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 405
  • Professional Ethics and Law
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • COU 410 — Addiction and Recovery: Surveys the psychological models of dependency and recovery. Discusses the role of social support systems in long-term wellnessThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN 400 — Advanced Pastoral Counseling Theory: Integrates sophisticated psychological theory with theological reflection. Focuses on the role of the helper in spiritual and cognitive formationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU 420 — Adult Learning and Mentorship: Explores how adults learn and develop within supportive environments. Provides tools for effective mentorship and training of volunteersThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 405 — Professional Ethics and Law: Reviews the legal and ethical landscape of the helping professions. Emphasizes risk management and adherence to professional standardsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP 499
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 4
  • RES 250
  • COU 450
  • Conflict Management and Mediation
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • SOC 420
  • Community Advocacy and Policy
  • 3
  • SOC 101
  • CHR 450
  • Spiritual Formation and Character
  • 3
  • THE 101
  • CAP 499 — Senior Capstone Project: The culmination of the program where students implement a significant project. Requires synthesis of research, theory, and faith-informed applicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COU 450 — Conflict Management and Mediation: Provides practical techniques for de-escalation and mediation in personal and organizational settings. Emphasizes peace-building and reconciliationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 420 — Community Advocacy and Policy: Analyzes the role of social policy in community health. Examines how practitioners advocate for effective change at the local levelThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR 450 — Spiritual Formation and Character: Focuses on the integration of personal character, spiritual life, and professional identity. Emphasizes internal consistency in practiceThis 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 equivalent recognized secondary education qualification with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students are required to submit an official transcript, a personal statement detailing their academic and service-oriented objectives, and two letters of recommendation that speak to their character and potential for academic success in a faith-based environment. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the program, requiring students to synthesize their learning through the completion of a major analytical project. Students are expected to identify a specific challenge or opportunity within a social or ministry setting, conduct a comprehensive literature review, and propose a research-based intervention or program plan. This project requires the application of psychological theory, empirical data, and a commitment to servant leadership as the primary lens for analysis. The project is weighted at 4 credit hours and is evaluated on both technical rigor and the clear, ethical integration of faith-based principles. Deliverables include a formal research paper and a professional presentation that demonstrates the student's capacity for critical thinking and evidence-based problem solving. This process underscores the student’s academic competence while serving as a final demonstration of their commitment to ethical practice and personal integrity in their professional field.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

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 meeting all curricular requirements, students must demonstrate spiritual and personal maturity through consistent participation in university-sponsored community engagement and spiritual formation activities, which reinforce the ethical foundations of their academic work. The program expects students to exhibit integrity, stewardship, and a clear understanding of how their academic training facilitates service to others. Final clearance for graduation is contingent upon the successful completion of the Senior Capstone Project and an evaluation of the student’s readiness to carry the values of the institution into their professional or volunteer careers.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Community Support Coordinator
  • Pastoral Care Assistant
  • Family Support Specialist
  • Social Service Case Aide
  • Non-profit Program Coordinator
  • Youth Ministry Director
  • Behavioral Health Technician Assistant
  • 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 Counseling Psychology
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Counseling Psychology core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
  • ENG 101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
  • THE 101 | Foundations of Christian Thought | 3 | None
  • SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 150 | Lifespan Development | 3 | PSY 101
  • COM 120 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • MAT 150 | Statistics for Behavioral Science | 4 | None
  • MIN 101 | Introduction to Pastoral Care | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 210 | Social Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • COU 201 | Helping Skills and Ethics | 3 | PSY 101
  • HIS 205 | World History of Religions | 3 | None
  • BIO 200 | Biological Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 250 | Personality Theory | 3 | PSY 101
  • COU 220 | Introduction to Group Dynamics | 3 | COU 201
  • CHR 210 | Ethics and Stewardship | 3 | THE 101
  • RES 250 | Research Methods | 4 | MAT 150
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 301 | Cognitive Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • COU 310 | Family Systems Theory | 3 | PSY 150
  • MIN 305 | Ministry and Community Service | 3 | MIN 101
  • PSY 320 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU 350 | Crisis Intervention and Support | 3 | COU 201
  • SOC 310 | Social Justice and Inequality | 3 | SOC 101
  • BUS 300 | Organizational Leadership | 3 | None
  • PSY 360 | Advanced Research Practicum | 4 | RES 250
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU 410 | Addiction and Recovery | 3 | PSY 320
  • MIN 400 | Advanced Pastoral Counseling Theory | 3 | MIN 101
  • EDU 420 | Adult Learning and Mentorship | 3 | None
  • PSY 405 | Professional Ethics and Law | 3 | COU 201
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP 499 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES 250
  • COU 450 | Conflict Management and Mediation | 3 | COU 201
  • SOC 420 | Community Advocacy and Policy | 3 | SOC 101
  • CHR 450 | Spiritual Formation and Character | 3 | THE 101

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Community Support Coordinator
  • Pastoral Care Assistant
  • Family Support Specialist
  • Social Service Case Aide
  • Non-profit Program Coordinator
  • Youth Ministry Director
  • Behavioral Health Technician Assistant

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 Counseling Psychology
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years