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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies

Academic unitHBIU College of Education and Human DevelopmentTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in English and Literary Studies is a rigorous, four-year program designed to cultivate a profound engagement with literature, critical theory, and the craft of writing through the lens of a Christian worldview. Students explore a diverse canon of texts, sharpening their analytical skills to discern cultural narratives while grounding their inquiry in biblical truth and ethical reasoning. By integrating the study of language with spiritual formation, this program equips students to serve as thoughtful communicators and agents of grace in the public square. Through specialized training in research, creative expression, and editorial practice, graduates are prepared to exercise their vocation as servant leaders in fields such as education, publishing, and media, viewing the written word as a vital tool for stewarding truth and fostering human flourishing.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies program provides a rigorous academic foundation that combines comprehensive general education with focused study in literary theory, behavioral science, human development, and ethical considerations. The curriculum integrates research methodologies, crisis awareness, referral strategies, program development, and community-based support frameworks to prepare students for diverse intellectual and service-oriented engagements.

Florida's current standard establishes a minimum of 120 semester credits for a bachelor's degree and at least 30 general-education credits for a Bachelor of Arts. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
B.A. in Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies
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
Specialization / Minor
/Guided Elective I (English-related)

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate a deep understanding of major literary movements and theories.
  • Analyze and critique texts using various critical approaches.
  • Develop effective writing and communication skills for academic and professional contexts.
  • Conduct independent research and present findings in a clear, coherent manner.
  • Explore the relationship between literature and other cultural productions.
  • Refine creative writing skills across multiple genres and forms.
  • Engage with contemporary issues through the lens of literary studies.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ELECT 3XX
  • Major/Guided Elective I (English-related)
  • 3
  • None
  • ELECT 4XX
  • Major/Guided Elective II (English-related)
  • 4
  • None
  • ENGL 101
  • Composition I: Academic Writing
  • 4
  • None
  • HIST 101
  • U.S. History to 1877
  • 3
  • None
  • ELECT 3XX — Major/Guided Elective I (English-related): Elective course in English studiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ELECT 4XX — Major/Guided Elective II (English-related): Advanced elective course in English studiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENGL 101 — Composition I: Academic Writing: Introduction to academic writing with focus on essay composition, critical reading, and research skillsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIST 101 — U.S. History to 1877: Survey of American history from colonial period through ReconstructionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LANG 101
  • Foreign Language I
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY 101
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 4
  • None
  • SOC 101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • ENGL 102
  • Composition II: Research Writing
  • 4
  • None
  • LANG 101 — Foreign Language I: Introduction to foreign language studyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: Fundamental concepts and theories in psychologyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: Fundamental concepts and theories of sociologyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENGL 102 — Composition II: Research Writing: Advanced composition with emphasis on research methods and argumentative writingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LANG 102
  • Foreign Language II
  • 3
  • None
  • ENGL 110
  • Introduction to English & Literary Studies
  • 4
  • None
  • SCI 110
  • Environmental Science
  • 4
  • None
  • SCI 111
  • Environmental Science Lab
  • 4
  • None
  • LANG 102 — Foreign Language II: Continuation of foreign language studyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENGL 110 — Introduction to English & Literary Studies: Overview of English and Literary Studies as a disciplineThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SCI 110 — Environmental Science: Introduction to environmental science and sustainabilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SCI 111 — Environmental Science Lab: Laboratory component for environmental science studiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MATH 115
  • Quantitative Reasoning & Statistics
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 120
  • Introduction to Literary Analysis & Close Reading
  • 4
  • None
  • INFO 201
  • Information Literacy & Research Technologies
  • 4
  • None
  • COMM 205
  • Public Speaking & Presentation
  • 3
  • None
  • MATH 115 — Quantitative Reasoning & Statistics: Introduction to quantitative reasoning and statistical methodsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 120 — Introduction to Literary Analysis & Close Reading: Foundations of literary analysis and critical close reading techniquesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • INFO 201 — Information Literacy & Research Technologies: Development of information literacy and research skillsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COMM 205 — Public Speaking & Presentation: Development of public speaking and presentation skillsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LIT 210
  • British Literature I: Beginnings–18th Century
  • 4
  • None
  • PHIL 210
  • Ethics & Civic Responsibility
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 220
  • Poetry & Poetics
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 230
  • Narrative & Genre: Fiction and Nonfiction
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 210 — British Literature I: Beginnings–18th Century: Survey of British literature from Anglo-Saxon period through the 18th centuryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PHIL 210 — Ethics & Civic Responsibility: Study of ethical theories and civic responsibilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 220 — Poetry & Poetics: Study of poetic forms, techniques, and major poetsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 230 — Narrative & Genre: Fiction and Nonfiction: Study of narrative techniques across fiction and nonfiction genresThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LIT 240
  • Drama & Performance Studies
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 310
  • American Literature I: Origins–1865
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 320
  • Literary Theory I: Classical–Modern
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 330
  • British Literature II: Romantic–Victorian
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 240 — Drama & Performance Studies: Analysis of dramatic literature and performance theoryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 310 — American Literature I: Origins–1865: Survey of American literature from colonial period through Civil WarThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 320 — Literary Theory I: Classical–Modern: Introduction to classical and modern literary theoryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 330 — British Literature II: Romantic–Victorian: British literature from Romantic through Victorian periodsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LIT 340
  • World/Global Literatures in English
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 410
  • American Literature II: 1865–Present
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 420
  • Literary Theory II: Contemporary Approaches
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 430
  • Advanced Seminar: Topics in Literature & Culture
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 340 — World/Global Literatures in English: Study of world literature written in EnglishThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 410 — American Literature II: 1865–Present: American literature from Reconstruction to contemporary periodThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 420 — Literary Theory II: Contemporary Approaches: Contemporary literary theory and criticismThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 430 — Advanced Seminar: Topics in Literature & Culture: Advanced topics in literature and cultural studiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • LIT 440
  • Literature, Race, Gender & Power
  • 4
  • None
  • LIT 450
  • Writing for the Public: Editing, Publishing, & Professional Writing
  • 4
  • None
  • CAP 491
  • Capstone Project I: Proposal & Research
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP 492
  • Capstone Project II: Final Project & Presentation
  • 3
  • None
  • LIT 440 — Literature, Race, Gender & Power: Critical study of literature through lenses of race, gender, and powerThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • LIT 450 — Writing for the Public: Editing, Publishing, & Professional Writing: Professional writing, editing, and publishing practicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CAP 491 — Capstone Project I: Proposal & Research: Development of capstone project proposal and initial researchThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CAP 492 — Capstone Project II: Final Project & Presentation: Completion and presentation of capstone projectThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants should possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with a strong background in English language and literature. A minimum GPA may be required, alongside letters of recommendation and a personal statement demonstrating interest in English and literary studies. Senior Capstone Project In their final year, students must complete a comprehensive Senior Capstone project that serves as a culmination of their academic and spiritual development. This project requires students to synthesize literary research with theological reflection, demonstrating an ability to engage complex texts through the framework of biblical stewardship. The capstone must articulate a clear ethical argument, showcasing the student’s capacity to apply Christian intellectual traditions to contemporary literary issues. Through this scholarly endeavor, students demonstrate not only their mastery of disciplinary content but also their commitment to using their intellectual gifts for the benefit of others and the advancement of the common good.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To qualify for graduation, students must complete a total of 120 credit hours, maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. The curriculum structure mandates completion of all core English and Literary Studies courses, alongside the University’s required general education and spiritual formation components. Beyond academic metrics, students are expected to demonstrate the fruit of the spirit through active participation in the academic community and the embodiment of servant leadership. Adherence to institutional standards of integrity and moral conduct is essential, as the degree serves as a witness to the student's holistic development as both a scholar and a faithful steward of their gifts.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Educator or Teacher
  • Editor or Proofreader
  • Writer or Author
  • Content Strategist
  • Literary Critic
  • Publishing Professional
  • Communications Specialist
  • Important Notices
  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Degree abbreviation | B.A. in Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ELECT 3XX | Major/Guided Elective I (English-related) | 3 | None
  • ELECT 4XX | Major/Guided Elective II (English-related) | 4 | None
  • ENGL 101 | Composition I: Academic Writing | 4 | None
  • HIST 101 | U.S. History to 1877 | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LANG 101 | Foreign Language I | 3 | None
  • PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 4 | None
  • SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • ENGL 102 | Composition II: Research Writing | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LANG 102 | Foreign Language II | 3 | None
  • ENGL 110 | Introduction to English & Literary Studies | 4 | None
  • SCI 110 | Environmental Science | 4 | None
  • SCI 111 | Environmental Science Lab | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MATH 115 | Quantitative Reasoning & Statistics | 4 | None
  • LIT 120 | Introduction to Literary Analysis & Close Reading | 4 | None
  • INFO 201 | Information Literacy & Research Technologies | 4 | None
  • COMM 205 | Public Speaking & Presentation | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LIT 210 | British Literature I: Beginnings–18th Century | 4 | None
  • PHIL 210 | Ethics & Civic Responsibility | 4 | None
  • LIT 220 | Poetry & Poetics | 4 | None
  • LIT 230 | Narrative & Genre: Fiction and Nonfiction | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LIT 240 | Drama & Performance Studies | 4 | None
  • LIT 310 | American Literature I: Origins–1865 | 4 | None
  • LIT 320 | Literary Theory I: Classical–Modern | 4 | None
  • LIT 330 | British Literature II: Romantic–Victorian | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LIT 340 | World/Global Literatures in English | 4 | None
  • LIT 410 | American Literature II: 1865–Present | 4 | None
  • LIT 420 | Literary Theory II: Contemporary Approaches | 4 | None
  • LIT 430 | Advanced Seminar: Topics in Literature & Culture | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • LIT 440 | Literature, Race, Gender & Power | 4 | None
  • LIT 450 | Writing for the Public: Editing, Publishing, & Professional Writing | 4 | None
  • CAP 491 | Capstone Project I: Proposal & Research | 3 | None
  • CAP 492 | Capstone Project II: Final Project & Presentation | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Educator or Teacher
  • Editor or Proofreader
  • Writer or Author
  • Content Strategist
  • Literary Critic
  • Publishing Professional
  • Communications Specialist

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

Important Notices

  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Degree abbreviation | B.A. in Faith-Based BSc in English, Literary Studies
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years