Bachelor of Arts in Theology Specialization in Counseling & Psychology

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Theology Specialization in 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 Seminary

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Analyze the historical and contemporary relationship between theological frameworks and psychological theories.
• Evaluate human behavior and social interaction using evidence-based psychological perspectives and ethical standards.
• Apply principles of servant leadership and ethical stewardship within a diverse community setting.
• Develop a research-based project that integrates theological understanding with complex psychosocial issues.
• Communicate complex interdisciplinary findings effectively through professional academic discourse.
• Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and spiritual formation through community engagement and reflection.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENGL101
• Composition Writing
• 3
• None
• THEO100
• Introduction to Theology
• 3
• None
• PSYC101
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• THEO101
• Foundations of Faith
• 3
• None
• ENGL101 — Composition Writing: This course focuses on developing foundational skills in Composition Writing, critical analysis, and research methodologies. Students will explore strategies for effective communication in diverse academic settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO100 — Introduction to Theology: This course examines the history, language, and primary texts of theological inquiry. Students will develop an understanding of major themes in Introduction to Theology This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSYC101 — Introduction to Psychology: An introductory overview of the major branches, methodologies, and theories within psychology. Topics include perception, learning, cognition, and behavioral foundations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO101 — Foundations of Faith: This course introduces Foundations of Faith and its application to communal life and service. Students will explore ethical frameworks for decision-making and character development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO102
• Knowing God's Voice
• 3
• None
• THEO103
• Biblical Management Principles
• 3
• None
• THEO104
• Excellence in Leadership
• 3
• THE101
• THEO105
• Leaven Like Evangelism
• 3
• None
• THEO102 — Knowing God's Voice: An examination of Knowing God's Voice, and inferential analysis relevant to human research. Emphasis is placed on Bible interpretation in social settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO103 — Biblical Management Principles: Exploration of Biblical Management Principles, institutions, and interactions that shape human behavior. The course analyzes group dynamics and social stratification. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO104 — Excellence in Leadership: This course focuses on the Excellence in Leadership and practice of spiritual disciplines and their impact on character development. Students evaluate personal growth within the context of Leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO105 — Leaven Like Evangelism: Principles of effective verbal and non-verbal communication in Leaven Like Evangelism. Students will practice active listening and conflict resolution strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO106
• Evangelism Teacher
• 3
• None
• THEO204
• Biblical Hermeneutics
• 3
• None
• THEO107
• Strategies for Spiritual Harvest
• 3
• None
• THEO108
• Biblical Prophecy
• 4
• None
• THEO106 — Evangelism Teacher: A study of the physical, cognitive, and Evangelism Teacher changes occurring throughout the human life cycle. Particular attention is given to the impact of environment and social systems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO204 — Biblical Hermeneutics: This course provides students with tools for the interpretation and application of sacred texts. Students study historical and literary contexts to enhance their analytical capabilities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO107 — Strategies for Spiritual Harvest: An introduction to Strategies for Spiritual Harvest that inform helping practices. Focus is placed on empathy, rapport, and helping skills within an ethical framework. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO108 — Biblical Prophecy: Exploration of the Biblical Prophecy. This course provide foundation for understanding Biblical Prophecy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO200
• Mobilization Methodologies
• 3
• None
• THEO201
• Spiritual Strategies-Warfare
• 3
• None
• THEO202
• Basic Bible Survey Old Testament
• 3
• None
• THEO203
• Basic Bible Survey New Testament.
• 3
• None
• THEO200 — Mobilization Methodologies: Examination of Mobilization Methodologies and how individuals think about, influence, and relate to one another in groups. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO201 — Spiritual Strategies-Warfare: Study of the Spiritual Strategies-Warfare and institutional environments where service takes place. Focus on administrative ethics and advocacy roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO202 — Basic Bible Survey Old Testament: An analysis of the Basic Bible Survey Old Testament, resource management, and the common good. Students investigate how to apply these values in administrative and leadership roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO203 — Basic Bible Survey New Testament.: A survey of Basic Bible Survey New Testament. that addressed systemic social needs and promoted human dignity. Analysis of the role of faith-based and secular institutions in social change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• BIBC101
• Introduction to Biblical Counseling
• 3
• None
• ELCM101
• Essentials of Leadership
• 4
• None
• THEO205
• Acts of the Apostles
• 3
• None
• THEO206
• Homiletics
• 3
• None
• BIBC101 — Introduction to Biblical Counseling: An examination of the Introduction to Biblical Counseling and etiology of human behavioral disorders. Students learn to analyze various perspectives of human dysfunction within sociocultural frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ELCM101 — Essentials of Leadership: In-depth study of Essentials of Leadership, and ethical standards in social inquiry. Students develop skills for evaluating evidence and scholarly literature. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO205 — Acts of the Apostles: Critically evaluating the ongoing dialogue between Acts of the Apostles and contemporary cultural issues. Students analyze how communities navigate diverse societal values. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO206 — Homiletics: An exploration of Homiletics, legal requirements, and ethical decision-making in the helping professions. Focus is on maintaining integrity while serving diverse populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO207
• Marriage-And-Family-Manual
• 3
• None
• THEO208
• Motivation and Emotion
• 3
• None
• THEO209
• Marriage-counseling
• 3
• None
• THEO210
• Marriage-Leaders-Guide
• 3
• None
• THEO207 — Marriage-And-Family-Manual: Study of strategies for providing support during times of Marriage-And-Family-Manual. Emphasis is placed on stabilization, community resource networking, and compassionate presence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO208 — Motivation and Emotion: A comprehensive analysis of the factors that drive human behavior and the regulation of Sociology of Marriage and Family. Theoretical approaches to internal and external influences on behavior are explored. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO209 — Marriage-counseling: This course analyzes the marriage-counseling, institutional ethics, and public policy. Students discuss the responsibilities of faith-informed service in civil society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO210 — Marriage-Leaders-Guide: Marriage-Leaders-Guide and management in nonprofit and community-focused environments. Focus on strategic planning, team building, and effective administrative operation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO211
• Premarital Counseling Manual/Premarital-Counseling-Questionnaires
• 3
• None
• THEO301
• Pauline Epistles: Romans
• 3
• None
• THEO302
• Christian Higher Education Faith teaching and learning in the evangelical tradition
• 3
• None
• GEN308
• Research Methods in Theology
• 4
• None
• THEO211 — Premarital Counseling Manual/Premarital-Counseling-Questionnaires: An analysis of premarital counseling manual/Premarital-Counseling-Questionnaires and contemporary theories of personality development and human identity. Students evaluate the strength and limitations of various structural frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO301 — Pauline Epistles: Romans: Investigation into the pauline epistles: romans from a theological perspective, emphasizing purpose, relationship, and value. This course engages with historical and modern scholarship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO302 — Christian Higher Education Faith teaching and learning in the evangelical tradition: Focus on the study of Christian Higher Education Faith teaching and
• learning in the evangelical tradition in the context of families and communities. Students analyze how environmental and interpersonal factors influence healthy relational functioning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• GEN308 — Research Methods in Theology: Preparation for the Research Methods in Theology through advanced literature review and project design. Students refine their research objectives and align their scholarly work with program standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO400
• Capstone Research Project
• 4
• None
• THEO303
• Financial Integrity and Stewardship
• 3
• None
• THEO304
• Current Issues in Psychology
• 3
• None
• THEO305
• Pastoral Care & Counseling
• 3
• None
• THEO400 — Capstone Research Project: The Capstone Research Project experience requires students to integrate theology, psychology, and ethical practice into a significant research project. Deliverables include a comprehensive manuscript and professional presentation reflecting servant leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO303 — Financial Integrity and Stewardship: A reflection on the Financial Integrity and Stewardship and religious dimensions of service and community outreach. Students synthesize their academic journey with future professional goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO304 — Current Issues in Psychology: Seminar-style discussion on contemporary trends and dilemmas in the Theology of Worship. Focus on the application of research to current societal problems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO305 — Pastoral Care & Counseling: Instruction on facilitating Pastoral Care & Counseling in non-traditional settings. Students gain insights into how to foster growth in adults within community or organizational contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 9 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO306
• Effective Church Leadership
• 3
• None
• THEO309
• Christian Ethics
• 3
• None
• TEDU 402
• Curriculum Development for Faith-Based Schools
• 3
• None
• TEDU 403
• Teaching Strategies for Biblical Studies
• 3
• None
• THEO306 — Effective Church Leadership: It focuses on leading God's people with integrity, humility, and biblical wisdom to fulfill the Church's mission while promoting spiritual growth, unity, and faithful service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO309 — Christian Ethics: Christian Ethics is the study and practice of living according to biblical principles, guiding believers to make moral decisions that honor God and reflect the teachings of Jesus Christ. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• TEDU 402 — Curriculum Development for Faith-Based Schools: Focuses on designing, implementing, and evaluating biblically grounded curricula that integrate academic excellence with Christian values to support holistic student development. . This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• TEDU 403 — Teaching Strategies for Biblical Studies: Equips educators with effective, Bible-centered instructional methods that promote meaningful learning, critical thinking, and spiritual growth among students. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 10 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THEO307/COU C102
• An Introduction to Counselling
• 3
• None
• THEO308
• Leadership Challenge
• 3
• None
• TEDU 404
• Faith-Based Classroom Management
• 3
• None
• THEO310
• Women in Ministry & Biblical Leadership
• 3
• None
• THEO307/COU C102 — An Introduction to Counselling: Provides foundational knowledge of counseling principles, basic helping skills, and ethical practices for supporting individuals through personal, emotional, and spiritual challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO308 — Leadership Challenge: Explores the principles and practices of effective leadership, equipping individuals to lead with integrity, vision, accountability, and confidence in diverse personal, professional, and ministry settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• TEDU 404 — Faith-Based Classroom Management: Equips educators with biblical principles and practical strategies for creating a positive, disciplined, and Christ-centered learning environment that promotes respect, character, and academic success. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THEO310 — Women in Ministry & Biblical Leadership: Examines the biblical foundations, roles, and contributions of women in ministry, equipping them to lead and serve with wisdom, integrity, and faithfulness to Scripture. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Prospective students must provide evidence of a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants are required to submit an official transcript, a personal statement detailing their academic and vocational goals, and two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with their academic potential or commitment to community service. All applicants must also participate in an admission interview to assess their readiness for rigorous undergraduate study within the HBIU Seminary environment. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts program, carrying a weight of 4 credit hours. It requires students to design and implement a comprehensive project that synthesizes their studies in theology and psychology. Students are expected to address a complex social or personal challenge, applying theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios while upholding the highest standards of academic inquiry and research methodology. Beyond demonstrating academic competence, this project integrates the institution's commitment to a Christian worldview, requiring students to articulate how their work reflects principles of servant leadership, biblical stewardship, and ethical discernment. The final deliverable consists of a substantive research paper and a formal presentation, both of which must demonstrate a clear connection between theoretical knowledge and practical, faith-informed service. This process ensures that students exit the program not only as proficient scholars but as individuals prepared to lead with integrity and character in their respective professional fields.

• To qualify for graduation, students must complete a minimum of 120 credit hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. All core curriculum and specialization requirements must be met, including the successful completion of the Senior Capstone Project, which is evaluated on its depth of research, integration of faith-informed character, and academic rigor. Failure to complete the project at a satisfactory level will necessitate further scholarly development before degree conferral.
• In addition to academic achievement, HBIU Seminary requires evidence of commitment to spiritual formation and community service. Students must participate in consistent chapel engagement and complete a set number of service-learning hours during their tenure. This holistic requirement ensures that students graduate with both the intellectual capacity and the spiritual maturity needed to serve as ethical, faith-informed professionals in their communities.
• Career Opportunities
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Nonprofit Program Administrator
• Youth Ministry Director
• Pastoral Care Assistant
• Human Services Case Specialist
• Volunteer Services Manager
• Family Support Liaison
• 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 Theology Specialization in Counseling & Psychology
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Theological and behavioral science core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENGL101 | Composition Writing | 3 | None
• THEO100 | Introduction to Theology | 3 | None
• PSYC101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• THEO101 | Foundations of Faith | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO102 | Knowing God's Voice | 3 | None
• THEO103 | Biblical Management Principles | 3 | None
• THEO104 | Excellence in Leadership | 3 | THE101
• THEO105 | Leaven Like Evangelism | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO106 | Evangelism Teacher | 3 | None
• THEO204 | Biblical Hermeneutics | 3 | None
• THEO107 | Strategies for Spiritual Harvest | 3 | None
• THEO108 | Biblical Prophecy | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO200 | Mobilization Methodologies | 3 | None
• THEO201 | Spiritual Strategies-Warfare | 3 | None
• THEO202 | Basic Bible Survey Old Testament | 3 | None
• THEO203 | Basic Bible Survey New Testament. | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• BIBC101 | Introduction to Biblical Counseling | 3 | None
• ELCM101 | Essentials of Leadership | 4 | None
• THEO205 | Acts of the Apostles | 3 | None
• THEO206 | Homiletics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO207 | Marriage-And-Family-Manual | 3 | None
• THEO208 | Motivation and Emotion | 3 | None
• THEO209 | Marriage-counseling | 3 | None
• THEO210 | Marriage-Leaders-Guide | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO211 | Premarital Counseling Manual/Premarital-Counseling-Questionnaires | 3 | None
• THEO301 | Pauline Epistles: Romans | 3 | None
• THEO302 | Christian Higher Education Faith teaching and learning in the evangelical tradition | 3 | None
• GEN308 | Research Methods in Theology | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO400 | Capstone Research Project | 4 | None
• THEO303 | Financial Integrity and Stewardship | 3 | None
• THEO304 | Current Issues in Psychology | 3 | None
• THEO305 | Pastoral Care & Counseling | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO306 | Effective Church Leadership | 3 | None
• THEO309 | Christian Ethics | 3 | None
• TEDU 402 | Curriculum Development for Faith-Based Schools | 3 | None
• TEDU 403 | Teaching Strategies for Biblical Studies | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THEO307/COU C102 | An Introduction to Counselling | 3 | None
• THEO308 | Leadership Challenge | 3 | None
• TEDU 404 | Faith-Based Classroom Management | 3 | None
• THEO310 | Women in Ministry & Biblical Leadership | 3 | None