Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Music in Performance

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Music in Performance

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 Performing Arts

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Demonstrate advanced proficiency in musical performance techniques and repertoire appropriate to their chosen specialization.
• Analyze and interpret musical works from historical, theoretical, and theological perspectives.
• Apply principles of servant leadership and ethical decision-making to musical performance and practice.
• Integrate a Christian worldview into the creation, interpretation, and presentation of music.
• Develop and implement effective strategies for community engagement through music.
• Communicate musical ideas and insights clearly and persuasively in both written and oral formats.
• Evaluate the role of music in faith-based contexts and its capacity to foster spiritual growth and community.
• Design and execute a significant musical project that reflects advanced artistic skill and faith-based commitment.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 101
• Introduction to Music Theory
• 3
• None
• MUS 105
• Music Appreciation and History I
• 3
• None
• ENG 101
• Composition I
• 3
• None
• PHI 100
• Introduction to Logical Reasoning
• 3
• None
• MUS 101 — Introduction to Music Theory: This course introduces fundamental concepts of music theory, including notation, rhythm, melody, harmony, and form. Students will develop basic analytical skills and begin to understand the structure of music. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 105 — Music Appreciation and History I: An overview of Western music history from antiquity through the Baroque period, focusing on key composers, stylistic developments, and cultural contexts. Students will learn to identify major works and their historical significance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ENG 101 — Composition I: This course focuses on the fundamentals of academic writing, including essay structure, argumentation, research methods, and proper citation. Students will develop critical thinking and clear communication skills through various writing assignments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PHI 100 — Introduction to Logical Reasoning: This course covers the fundamentals of critical thinking, deductive logic, and the analysis of arguments. It focuses on identifying logical fallacies and structuring sound reasoning in professional communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 102
• Music Theory II
• 3
• MUS 101
• MUS 106
• Music Appreciation and History II
• 3
• None
• ENG 102
• Composition II
• 3
• ENG 101
• HUM 101
• Introduction to Humanities
• 3
• None
• MUS 102 — Music Theory II: Building upon Music Theory I, this course delves into more complex harmonic progressions, counterpoint, and formal structures. Students will continue to develop their analytical and compositional skills. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 106 — Music Appreciation and History II: This course surveys Western music history from the Classical period through the 20th century, highlighting major composers, stylistic innovations, and societal influences. Students will engage with a diverse range of musical repertoire. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ENG 102 — Composition II: This course extends the skills developed in Composition I, focusing on research, argumentation, and the production of longer academic papers. Emphasis is placed on refining critical analysis and sophisticated writing techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM 101 — Introduction to Humanities: This course provides an interdisciplinary survey of human culture, exploring key works and ideas in literature, philosophy, art, and history. Students will develop an appreciation for diverse human expressions and intellectual traditions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 201
• Harmony and Voice Leading
• 3
• MUS 102
• MUS 210
• Applied Music I
• 2
• Departmental approval and audition
• HIS 201
• World Civilizations I
• 3
• None
• PSY 101
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• MUS 201 — Harmony and Voice Leading: This course examines the principles of tonal harmony, including chord construction, functional harmony, and voice leading techniques. Students will engage in analytical and compositional exercises to solidify their understanding. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 210 — Applied Music I: Individual instruction in a primary performance medium, focusing on developing technical proficiency, musicality, and interpretive skills. Students will work with faculty to establish practice routines and performance goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS 201 — World Civilizations I: A survey of major civilizations from prehistory through the medieval period, examining their social structures, political systems, cultural achievements, and religious beliefs. Students will develop an understanding of global historical processes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: This course provides an overview of the fundamental principles and theories of human behavior and mental processes. Topics include perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotion, and personality development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 202
• Form and Analysis
• 3
• MUS 201
• MUS 211
• Applied Music II
• 2
• MUS 210
• SOC 101
• Introduction to Sociology
• 3
• None
• EDU 200
• Foundations of Education
• 3
• None
• MUS 202 — Form and Analysis: This course focuses on the analytical study of musical forms, including sonata form, fugue, theme and variations, and other common structures. Students will apply theoretical concepts to the analysis of significant musical works. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 211 — Applied Music II: Continued individual instruction in the primary performance medium, with an emphasis on repertoire expansion, advanced technique, and performance preparation. Students will refine their interpretive abilities and stage presence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: This course introduces the basic concepts, theories, and methods of sociology, examining social structures, institutions, and social change. Students will explore the relationship between individual experiences and broader societal forces. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU 200 — Foundations of Education: An introductory survey of the historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education. Students will explore the purposes of education and the role of the educator in society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 301
• Counterpoint
• 3
• MUS 202
• MUS 310
• Applied Music III
• 2
• MUS 211
• COM 301
• Interpersonal Communication
• 3
• None
• PHI 310
• Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility
• 3
• REL 100
• MUS 301 — Counterpoint: This course explores the techniques of writing in two or more independent melodic lines simultaneously, focusing on Baroque contrapuntal practices. Students will engage in analysis and composition exercises. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 310 — Applied Music III: Advanced individual instruction in the primary performance medium, focusing on the development of a professional-level repertoire and sophisticated performance practices. Students will refine their artistic voice and stage presence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 301 — Interpersonal Communication: This course examines the principles and practices of effective communication in interpersonal relationships. Topics include verbal and nonverbal communication, listening skills, conflict resolution, and relational dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PHI 310 — Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility: This course examines ethical theories and their application to professional decision-making within organizational contexts. Students analyze contemporary issues related to social responsibility, corporate governance, and individual accountability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 305
• Arranging and Orchestration
• 3
• MUS 202
• MUS 311
• Applied Music IV
• 2
• MUS 310
• BUS 301
• Introduction to Nonprofit Management
• 3
• None
• COM 350
• Organizational Leadership and Communication
• 3
• REL 100
• MUS 305 — Arranging and Orchestration: This course introduces the principles of arranging music for various ensembles and the techniques of orchestration. Students will learn about instrument ranges, capabilities, and effective scoring practices. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 311 — Applied Music IV: Continued advanced individual instruction in the primary performance medium, with a focus on preparing for professional performance contexts and refining artistic expression. Students will develop mastery of challenging repertoire. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 301 — Introduction to Nonprofit Management: This course provides an overview of the principles and practices of managing nonprofit organizations, covering areas such as governance, fundraising, marketing, and program development. Students will explore effective leadership strategies for service organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 350 — Organizational Leadership and Communication: This course explores strategies for effective leadership, team building, and internal communication within diverse organizational structures. It emphasizes the development of interpersonal skills necessary for managing stakeholders and personnel in professional environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 401
• Music Pedagogy
• 3
• MUS 311
• MUS 490
• Senior Recital Preparation
• 1
• MUS 311
• SOC 400
• Cultural Studies and Social Dynamics
• 3
• REL 100
• RES 300
• Research Methods
• 3
• ENG 102
• MUS 401 — Music Pedagogy: This course examines the principles and methods of teaching music, covering pedagogical approaches for various age groups and skill levels. Students will develop lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 490 — Senior Recital Preparation: This course guides students in the preparation and planning of their senior recital, focusing on repertoire selection, performance practice, and presentation. Students will refine their performance skills and develop a cohesive program. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 400 — Cultural Studies and Social Dynamics: This course provides an overview of sociological frameworks used to understand cultural change and social interaction. Students examine how global, societal, and subcultural influences shape organizational development and public engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 300 — Research Methods: This course introduces students to the principles and practices of academic research, including formulating research questions, designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and reporting findings. Students will develop critical skills for scholarly inquiry. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MUS 499
• Senior Capstone Project
• 4
• MUS 490, RES 300
• MUS 450
• Senior Recital
• 1
• MUS 490
• BUS 400
• Community Engagement Practicum
• 3
• MIN 350
• HUM 300
• Philosophy of Culture and Aesthetic Theory
• 3
• PHI 101 or HUM 101
• MUS 499 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating experience of the program, where students undertake a significant independent project in performance, composition, or research, integrating their musical expertise with faith-based principles. This project requires extensive planning, execution, and a written component articulating its artistic and theological dimensions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MUS 450 — Senior Recital: The performance of a full-length solo recital, demonstrating the culmination of a student's applied music study. This recital serves as a public demonstration of technical mastery, interpretive depth, and artistic maturity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 400 — Community Engagement Practicum: This field-based course requires students to apply administrative and professional skills within a community-based organization. Students document their experiences and evaluate the operational effectiveness of local social outreach initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM 300 — Philosophy of Culture and Aesthetic Theory: This course examines the history of aesthetic theory and the philosophical foundations of human creative expression across cultures. It provides a framework for analyzing the intersection of arts, values, and societal institutions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Music in Performance program requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of musical work and participate in an audition to demonstrate musical aptitude and potential. Standardized test scores may be required, along with a personal essay reflecting the applicant's interest in the program and its faith-based orientation. Transfer students must meet general university admission requirements and may receive credit for prior coursework based on departmental review. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Music in Performance. This project allows students to synthesize their learning across musical disciplines, academic studies, and faith formation. Students will conceptualize, develop, and execute a significant musical endeavor, which could include a full recital, a composition project, a scholarly research paper on a musicological topic with faith implications, or a community-based musical initiative. The purpose of the capstone is to demonstrate mastery of performance skills, analytical abilities, and the capacity to integrate a Christian worldview into their artistic practice. This involves articulating how principles of ethical reasoning, servant leadership, biblical stewardship, and spiritual formation inform their chosen project. The project deliverables will include a substantial musical component (performance, composition, or curated event) and a written thesis or portfolio that contextualizes the work, discusses its creation process, and reflects on its faith-based dimensions and community impact. Successful completion signifies the student's readiness to apply their musical talents and faith commitments in meaningful service.

• To graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Music in Performance, students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. This includes successful completion of all core music curriculum courses, general education requirements, and specialization courses. Furthermore, students must satisfactorily complete the Senior Capstone Project, demonstrating their ability to synthesize academic knowledge with practical musical skills and faith-based principles. In addition to academic milestones, students are expected to actively participate in the university's spiritual formation initiatives, which may include regular chapel attendance, engagement in small group ministries, and completion of specific discipleship or community service requirements designed to foster ethical integrity, spiritual maturity, and a readiness for faith-informed service.
• Career Opportunities
• Church Music Director
• Worship Leader
• Instrumental Performer (solo, ensemble)
• Vocal Performer (solo, ensemble)
• Music Educator (private instruction, community programs)
• Music Ministry Coordinator
• Arts Administrator for faith-based organizations
• Composer or Arranger for religious contexts
• 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 Music in Performance
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Faith-Based Music in Performance core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 101 | Introduction to Music Theory | 3 | None
• MUS 105 | Music Appreciation and History I | 3 | None
• ENG 101 | Composition I | 3 | None
• PHI 100 | Introduction to Logical Reasoning | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 102 | Music Theory II | 3 | MUS 101
• MUS 106 | Music Appreciation and History II | 3 | None
• ENG 102 | Composition II | 3 | ENG 101
• HUM 101 | Introduction to Humanities | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 201 | Harmony and Voice Leading | 3 | MUS 102
• MUS 210 | Applied Music I | 2 | Departmental approval and audition
• HIS 201 | World Civilizations I | 3 | None
• PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 202 | Form and Analysis | 3 | MUS 201
• MUS 211 | Applied Music II | 2 | MUS 210
• SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• EDU 200 | Foundations of Education | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 301 | Counterpoint | 3 | MUS 202
• MUS 310 | Applied Music III | 2 | MUS 211
• COM 301 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• PHI 310 | Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility | 3 | REL 100
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 305 | Arranging and Orchestration | 3 | MUS 202
• MUS 311 | Applied Music IV | 2 | MUS 310
• BUS 301 | Introduction to Nonprofit Management | 3 | None
• COM 350 | Organizational Leadership and Communication | 3 | REL 100
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 401 | Music Pedagogy | 3 | MUS 311
• MUS 490 | Senior Recital Preparation | 1 | MUS 311
• SOC 400 | Cultural Studies and Social Dynamics | 3 | REL 100
• RES 300 | Research Methods | 3 | ENG 102
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MUS 499 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | MUS 490, RES 300
• MUS 450 | Senior Recital | 1 | MUS 490
• BUS 400 | Community Engagement Practicum | 3 | MIN 350
• HUM 300 | Philosophy of Culture and Aesthetic Theory | 3 | PHI 101 or HUM 101