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Associate of Arts in Chaplaincy

Academic unitHBIU College of ChaplaincyTotal credits60Estimated duration2 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based Chaplaincy core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Chaplaincy provides a foundational academic framework for individuals seeking to serve within diverse community, organizational, and institutional settings. This program integrates liberal arts disciplines with a core focus on pastoral care, ethical decision-making, and servant leadership principles, preparing students to offer compassionate support in complex environments. By bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, students are equipped to foster resilience and spiritual well-being in others through principled, informed, and ethically sound engagement.

Throughout the program, students explore the intersection of human development, social dynamics, and ethical responsibility. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking, effective communication, and cultural competency, ensuring that graduates are prepared to address the needs of individuals and groups with integrity and empathy. This program serves as a comprehensive introduction to the specialized field of chaplaincy, emphasizing the importance of stewardship and active, community-centered service.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Chaplaincy provides a comprehensive foundational study in faith-based chaplaincy, human development, communication, ethics, community resources, and supportive service practices. Students engage in an academic curriculum designed to cultivate the knowledge and competencies necessary for effective service within diverse ministry and community settings.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.A. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy
Total program length
60 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Two academic years
General education
18 credit hours
Professional application courses
9 credit hours
Capstone requirement
3 credit hours
Academic unit
HBIU College of Chaplaincy
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the principles of pastoral care and their application in diverse organizational settings.
  • Evaluate ethical frameworks and decision-making processes relevant to chaplaincy and community support.
  • Apply concepts of servant leadership and stewardship to promote communal and individual resilience.
  • Demonstrate effective communication and active listening skills essential for supportive interactions.
  • Integrate a theological and ethical worldview into professional practices and personal character development.
  • Design a comprehensive project that addresses a specific need for spiritual or emotional care within a community.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • 4
  • None
  • MIN105
  • Foundations of Servant Leadership
  • 4
  • None
  • PSY110
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR120
  • Spiritual Formation and Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: Explores the fundamental principles of academic writing, research, and rhetoric. Students analyze source materials and develop clear, persuasive prose for diverse audiencesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN105 — Foundations of Servant Leadership: Examines the historical and philosophical foundations of servant leadership. Students evaluate how leadership as service contributes to organizational success and individual character developmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY110 — Introduction to Psychology: Provides an overview of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Key topics include human development, motivation, and social interactionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR120 — Spiritual Formation and Ethics: Investigates the intersection of personal spiritual practice and ethical decision-making. Focuses on the role of integrity and worldview in the development of a professional identityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM201
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • ENG101
  • SOC205
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • MIN210
  • Foundations of Pastoral Care
  • 4
  • MIN105
  • RES200
  • Research Methods
  • 4
  • ENG101
  • COM201 — Interpersonal Communication: Develops essential communication skills for building supportive relationships in professional settings. Emphasizes active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution techniquesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC205 — Introduction to Sociology: Analyzes the impact of social structures and cultural dynamics on individuals and communities. Evaluates how social phenomena influence the practice of community supportThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN210 — Foundations of Pastoral Care: Introduces the methodologies of pastoral care, emphasizing the role of listening, presence, and non-clinical support. Students explore how to provide comfort and guidance in various contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES200 — Research Methods: Introduces qualitative and quantitative research methods appropriate for undergraduate inquiry. Students learn to evaluate existing literature to inform their professional practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU220
  • Introduction to Counseling Dynamics
  • 4
  • PSY110
  • CHR230
  • Biblical Stewardship and Community Engagement
  • 4
  • CHR120
  • HIS250
  • History of Social Service Institutions
  • 3
  • None
  • EDU260
  • Educational Theory for Adult Learners
  • 3
  • None
  • COU220 — Introduction to Counseling Dynamics: Examines the basic principles of supportive counseling and effective human relations. Focuses on identifying boundaries and appropriate pathways for community support referralsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR230 — Biblical Stewardship and Community Engagement: Explores the concept of stewardship as it relates to community resources and institutional service. Students evaluate the duty of individuals to contribute meaningfully to the common goodThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS250 — History of Social Service Institutions: Traces the development of social service and charitable institutions from historical perspectives. Analyzes how these institutions have evolved to meet changing societal needsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU260 — Educational Theory for Adult Learners: Covers strategies for teaching and mentoring adults in community settings. Focuses on collaborative learning and the facilitation of growth in diverse populationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP290
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 4
  • All Core Courses
  • MIN305
  • Ethical Leadership in Chaplaincy
  • 4
  • MIN105
  • BUS210
  • Organizational Management for Non-Profits
  • 3
  • None
  • HUM270
  • Cultural Competency in Practice
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP290 — Senior Capstone Project: Integrates all previous learning through the design and implementation of a community support project. Students submit a final proposal and reflective analysis documenting their growth and project impactThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN305 — Ethical Leadership in Chaplaincy: Provides an advanced study of ethical issues specifically encountered in chaplaincy and institutional service. Focuses on navigating complex dilemmas through a framework of integrityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS210 — Organizational Management for Non-Profits: Covers the operational, financial, and management aspects of running a community-based, non-profit organization. Focuses on efficient resource management and transparencyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HUM270 — Cultural Competency in Practice: Explores the importance of cultural understanding in providing effective service to diverse populations. Students analyze their own cultural perspectives to better interact with othersThis 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 state-recognized equivalent, demonstrating a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Candidates are required to submit an institutional application, official academic transcripts, and a personal statement reflecting their commitment to servant leadership and the institutional values of HBI University. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Chaplaincy, requiring students to synthesize their learning into a substantive, practical project. This project challenges students to identify a specific community or institutional need and design an intervention rooted in ethical reasoning, spiritual formation, and the principles of servant leadership. The scope involves research, proposal development, and a final presentation that reflects the student's ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Delivered as a 4-credit course, the Capstone Project emphasizes the integration of a Christian worldview with professional standards. Students must demonstrate both academic competence and faith-informed character development, documenting how their approach reflects stewardship and integrity. Deliverables include a formal project portfolio and a reflective analysis detailing how the student’s spiritual formation and ethical framework informed the project design and execution.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To graduate with an Associate of Arts in Faith-Based Chaplaincy, students must complete the 60-credit hour program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. Successful completion of all core and elective coursework is required, alongside a satisfactory evaluation of the Capstone Project. Beyond academic performance, students must participate in institutional spiritual formation activities, including regular community service and communal gatherings, which are essential for developing the character, ethical integrity, and servant heart necessary for professional service.
  • Graduation represents the culmination of both rigorous intellectual inquiry and intentional spiritual maturity. Students are expected to demonstrate readiness for faith-informed service by showing that their academic achievements are deeply rooted in moral and ethical stability. By fulfilling these requirements, students signify their commitment to ongoing growth and their readiness to serve as agents of peace, support, and hope within their chosen professional environments.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Hospice Support Assistant
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Faith-Based Non-Profit Administrator
  • Correctional Facility Religious Program Assistant
  • Hospital Volunteer Coordinator
  • Crisis Support Volunteer
  • Pastoral Care Administrative Aide
  • 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 | A.A. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years
  • General education | 18 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Chaplaincy core | 30 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 9 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 4 | None
  • MIN105 | Foundations of Servant Leadership | 4 | None
  • PSY110 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
  • CHR120 | Spiritual Formation and Ethics | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM201 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | ENG101
  • SOC205 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • MIN210 | Foundations of Pastoral Care | 4 | MIN105
  • RES200 | Research Methods | 4 | ENG101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU220 | Introduction to Counseling Dynamics | 4 | PSY110
  • CHR230 | Biblical Stewardship and Community Engagement | 4 | CHR120
  • HIS250 | History of Social Service Institutions | 3 | None
  • EDU260 | Educational Theory for Adult Learners | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP290 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | All Core Courses
  • MIN305 | Ethical Leadership in Chaplaincy | 4 | MIN105
  • BUS210 | Organizational Management for Non-Profits | 3 | None
  • HUM270 | Cultural Competency in Practice | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Hospice Support Assistant
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Faith-Based Non-Profit Administrator
  • Correctional Facility Religious Program Assistant
  • Hospital Volunteer Coordinator
  • Crisis Support Volunteer
  • Pastoral Care Administrative Aide

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 | A.A. in Faith-Based Chaplaincy
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years