← Programs CatalogAuthoritative HBIU program data

degree · Bachelor · v1

Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Entrepreneurial Studies, Specialization in Social Entrepreneurship

Academic unitHBIU College of Business and EconomicsTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Entrepreneurial Studies

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Business and management core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Entrepreneurial Studies, with a specialization in Social Entrepreneurship, is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the business acumen and ethical framework necessary to address complex societal challenges. By blending rigorous economic theory with a commitment to stewardship and servant leadership, the curriculum explores how market-driven initiatives can generate sustainable positive impact within diverse communities. Students engage with foundational business principles, innovative strategy development, and social impact modeling to prepare for roles that balance fiscal health with mission-driven objectives. The program emphasizes the integration of professional expertise with a robust personal character, preparing graduates to navigate the complexities of contemporary organizational environments with integrity, innovation, and a commitment to the common good.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Entrepreneurial Studies combines a broad-based foundation in the liberal arts with comprehensive study in entrepreneurial theory, behavioral science, organizational development, ethics, social research, market awareness, strategic planning, and community-based social impact initiatives.

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 Entrepreneurial 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 Business and Economics
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze contemporary business models through the lens of social responsibility and sustainable stewardship.
  • Design comprehensive business plans that integrate financial sustainability with clear social impact objectives.
  • Apply principles of servant leadership to guide organizational decision-making and personnel management.
  • Evaluate the economic and social efficacy of entrepreneurship as a tool for community revitalization.
  • Develop ethical strategies for resource allocation in environments where fiscal and communal needs intersect.
  • Communicate professional findings and business strategies effectively to diverse stakeholders.
  • Integrate a Christian worldview into personal and professional decision-making frameworks.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Research
  • 4
  • None
  • BUS105
  • Foundations of Entrepreneurship
  • 4
  • None
  • MAT110
  • Quantitative Reasoning for Business
  • 3
  • None
  • PHI101
  • Foundations of Philosophical Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Research: This course focuses on the development of critical thinking and formal writing skills for professional success. Students learn to synthesize complex information through rigorous investigation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS105 — Foundations of Entrepreneurship: This course introduces the essential pillars of entrepreneurial thinking and business creation. Students examine historical and modern models of market-based solutions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MAT110 — Quantitative Reasoning for Business: Students apply mathematical concepts to real-world business scenarios including budgeting and forecasting. Analytical rigor is emphasized for decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PHI101 — Foundations of Philosophical Ethics: This course examines fundamental moral theories and their application to business decision-making and professional conduct. It explores the principles of integrity, social responsibility, and ethical frameworks in various economic sectors. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BUS110
  • Principles of Management
  • 3
  • BUS105
  • SOC120
  • Sociology of Community Impact
  • 3
  • None
  • COM105
  • Professional Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY115
  • Human Behavior and Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • BUS110 — Principles of Management: Students examine core management theories related to organizational structure, leadership, and operational efficiency. The course explores the balance of authority and service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC120 — Sociology of Community Impact: This course provides an overview of social structures and their influence on community development. Students identify key factors in poverty, education, and health. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM105 — Professional Communication: Students master interpersonal and organizational communication strategies essential for leadership roles. Clear and empathetic messaging is emphasized. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY115 — Human Behavior and Leadership: This course explores the psychological aspects of motivation, team dynamics, and conflict resolution. Students apply theories to leadership contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BUS201
  • Microeconomics for Social Impact
  • 3
  • MAT110
  • BUS215
  • Marketing for Social Change
  • 3
  • BUS105
  • HIS250
  • History of Economic Thought
  • 3
  • None
  • HUM200
  • Cultural Engagement and Stewardship
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • BUS201 — Microeconomics for Social Impact: Students study market dynamics, supply and demand, and the allocation of resources in social enterprises. The course addresses equitable economic participation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS215 — Marketing for Social Change: This course focuses on communicating organizational value to donors, stakeholders, and the public. Students build campaigns that align with organizational goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS250 — History of Economic Thought: Students analyze the progression of economic theory and its influence on contemporary social structures. Key figures in economic reform are discussed. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM200 — Cultural Engagement and Stewardship: This course explores the responsibility of organizations to engage respectfully with diverse cultural contexts. Stewardship is presented as a pillar of community relations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BUS250
  • Financial Accounting for Nonprofits
  • 4
  • MAT110
  • BUS260
  • Strategic Resource Development
  • 3
  • BUS105
  • COU210
  • Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
  • 3
  • PSY115
  • RES205
  • Research Methods for Social Impact
  • 3
  • MAT110
  • BUS250 — Financial Accounting for Nonprofits: Students learn to track organizational resources, develop financial reports, and maintain budgetary transparency. Fiscal health is emphasized for mission sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS260 — Strategic Resource Development: This course covers fundraising, grant writing, and asset management in the social sector. Students develop skills in long-term resource planning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COU210 — Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: Students study methods to navigate disputes and reach consensus in high-stakes environments. Professional diplomacy is highlighted. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES205 — Research Methods for Social Impact: This course provides tools for gathering data to measure organizational effectiveness. Students learn to conduct social needs assessments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BUS305
  • Sustainable Business Strategy
  • 3
  • BUS250
  • BUS310
  • Leadership and Organizational Culture
  • 3
  • BUS110
  • EDU320
  • Community Outreach and Education
  • 3
  • SOC120
  • SOC315
  • Sociology of Work and Career
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • BUS305 — Sustainable Business Strategy: Students evaluate how to sustain social impact over the long term through innovative operational models. Risk assessment and contingency planning are core topics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS310 — Leadership and Organizational Culture: This course examines how leaders shape the identity and values of an organization. Servant leadership is presented as the primary model. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU320 — Community Outreach and Education: Students learn how to design programs that educate and empower stakeholders for collective success. Design thinking is applied to social challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC315 — Sociology of Work and Career: This course investigates the sociological dimensions of professional identity and the evolving nature of the labor market. It analyzes how individual career paths intersect with economic trends and organizational needs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BUS350
  • Social Innovation Practicum
  • 4
  • BUS305
  • BUS365
  • Legal and Ethical Considerations
  • 3
  • BUS110
  • MGT325
  • Volunteer Management
  • 3
  • BUS110
  • SOC340
  • Urban Development and Policy
  • 3
  • SOC120
  • BUS350 — Social Innovation Practicum: Students participate in a real-world experience observing the challenges of social entrepreneurship. Reflective journals connect theory to practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS365 — Legal and Ethical Considerations: This course covers the regulatory environment of the nonprofit sector and ethical standards in management. Governance and compliance are emphasized. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT325 — Volunteer Management: Students develop strategies for recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers to maximize program impact. Effective delegation and appreciation are essential themes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC340 — Urban Development and Policy: This course examines the role of social enterprises within the context of urban policies and infrastructure. Students identify systemic challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • BUS405
  • Advanced Social Entrepreneurship
  • 3
  • BUS305
  • BUS415
  • Global Perspectives in Business
  • 3
  • BUS201
  • RES410
  • Capstone Proposal Development
  • 3
  • RES205
  • CHR420
  • Professional Ethics and Public Service
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • BUS405 — Advanced Social Entrepreneurship: Students tackle complex cases in enterprise development to refine their analytical skills. Complex social challenges demand creative solutions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS415 — Global Perspectives in Business: This course addresses the cross-cultural considerations of international social enterprises. Students evaluate global supply chains and ethical trade. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES410 — Capstone Proposal Development: Students formalize their research and plan for the final Senior Capstone Project. Mentorship is provided to ensure feasibility and clarity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CHR420 — Professional Ethics and Public Service: This course explores the intersection of moral integrity and public policy impacts. Students reflect on their responsibility to the broader community. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP490
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 4
  • RES410
  • BUS450
  • Executive Leadership Seminar
  • 3
  • BUS310
  • BUS460
  • Strategic Networking and Growth
  • 3
  • BUS305
  • BUS480
  • Current Trends in Workforce Development
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The Senior Capstone Project represents the culmination of the program, requiring students to present a comprehensive social venture proposal. The deliverable is a formal business plan that integrates economic viability, ethical leadership, and faith-informed stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS450 — Executive Leadership Seminar: This seminar synthesizes leadership theory into practical application for senior-level decision-makers. Students analyze high-level organizational challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS460 — Strategic Networking and Growth: Students learn to build professional relationships and partnerships to scale social impact. Networking is framed as a tool for collaboration. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS480 — Current Trends in Workforce Development: This course evaluates emerging technological, demographic, and economic shifts affecting global professional landscapes. It provides strategies for adapting organizational structures to meet the demands of a changing workforce. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Prospective students must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence. Applicants are expected to submit official transcripts reflecting a competitive grade point average and a statement of purpose outlining their career interests and alignment with the university's mission. Preference is given to candidates who exhibit potential for academic success and a history of community engagement or servant leadership, indicating a foundation for further personal and professional growth. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Entrepreneurial Studies, requiring students to synthesize their knowledge of business principles, ethical reasoning, and social innovation. Through the creation of a comprehensive social venture proposal, students demonstrate their ability to address a real-world community challenge using sustainable, evidence-based practices. This project requires rigorous research, financial planning, and the articulation of a clear, mission-driven operational strategy. Beyond technical competence, the capstone provides an opportunity for students to reflect on their identity as servant leaders and stewards of resources. By applying biblical principles of justice and integrity to their project, students demonstrate a mature synthesis of their academic training and faith commitments. The project serves as a hallmark of spiritual and professional development, ensuring that graduates enter their respective fields equipped not only with functional skill sets but also with the character and ethical clarity to lead organizations with purpose and stewardship.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation from the program requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0, ensuring that students meet the institution's standards for academic rigor and technical proficiency. In addition to coursework, students must complete the Senior Capstone Project, demonstrating mastery of the program's learning outcomes and the integration of faith-informed decision-making. These benchmarks ensure that graduates possess both the cognitive depth and the practical experience necessary for their future endeavors.
  • Furthermore, the university emphasizes the importance of spiritual and ethical formation throughout the student's tenure. Candidates are expected to engage in consistent community service, regular participation in campus spiritual life, and specific character development activities as outlined in the student handbook. By weaving academic achievement with spiritual maturity, the university ensures that its graduates are prepared to serve as leaders who prioritize integrity, compassion, and the common good in all their professional and civic engagements.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Social Entrepreneur
  • Nonprofit Program Manager
  • Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist
  • Community Development Coordinator
  • Business Development Consultant
  • Mission-Driven Project Manager
  • Social Venture Analyst
  • 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 Entrepreneurial Studies
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Business and management core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Research | 4 | None
  • BUS105 | Foundations of Entrepreneurship | 4 | None
  • MAT110 | Quantitative Reasoning for Business | 3 | None
  • PHI101 | Foundations of Philosophical Ethics | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS110 | Principles of Management | 3 | BUS105
  • SOC120 | Sociology of Community Impact | 3 | None
  • COM105 | Professional Communication | 3 | None
  • PSY115 | Human Behavior and Leadership | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS201 | Microeconomics for Social Impact | 3 | MAT110
  • BUS215 | Marketing for Social Change | 3 | BUS105
  • HIS250 | History of Economic Thought | 3 | None
  • HUM200 | Cultural Engagement and Stewardship | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS250 | Financial Accounting for Nonprofits | 4 | MAT110
  • BUS260 | Strategic Resource Development | 3 | BUS105
  • COU210 | Conflict Resolution and Negotiation | 3 | PSY115
  • RES205 | Research Methods for Social Impact | 3 | MAT110
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS305 | Sustainable Business Strategy | 3 | BUS250
  • BUS310 | Leadership and Organizational Culture | 3 | BUS110
  • EDU320 | Community Outreach and Education | 3 | SOC120
  • SOC315 | Sociology of Work and Career | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS350 | Social Innovation Practicum | 4 | BUS305
  • BUS365 | Legal and Ethical Considerations | 3 | BUS110
  • MGT325 | Volunteer Management | 3 | BUS110
  • SOC340 | Urban Development and Policy | 3 | SOC120
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • BUS405 | Advanced Social Entrepreneurship | 3 | BUS305
  • BUS415 | Global Perspectives in Business | 3 | BUS201
  • RES410 | Capstone Proposal Development | 3 | RES205
  • CHR420 | Professional Ethics and Public Service | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES410
  • BUS450 | Executive Leadership Seminar | 3 | BUS310
  • BUS460 | Strategic Networking and Growth | 3 | BUS305
  • BUS480 | Current Trends in Workforce Development | 3 | CHR101

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Social Entrepreneur
  • Nonprofit Program Manager
  • Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist
  • Community Development Coordinator
  • Business Development Consultant
  • Mission-Driven Project Manager
  • Social Venture Analyst

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 Entrepreneurial Studies
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years