Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice

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 Communication and Media

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Analyze complex social, political, and ethical issues through the lens of rigorous investigative research methodologies.
• Evaluate the impact of journalistic reporting on public policy and community welfare.
• Demonstrate advanced competency in multi-platform storytelling, including long-form narrative, multimedia production, and data analysis.
• Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to navigate conflicts of interest, source protection, and the responsibilities of public information sharing.
• Develop professional portfolios that showcase sophisticated investigative techniques, journalistic integrity, and effective communication strategies.
• Integrate a commitment to servant leadership and social stewardship into the practice of professional reporting and media management.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG101
• Academic Composition I
• 4
• None
• COM105
• Introduction to Communication Studies
• 3
• None
• HIS110
• Historical Foundations of Social Movements
• 3
• None
• THE102
• Foundations of Ethical Thought
• 3
• None
• ENG101 — Academic Composition I: This course focuses on essential skills in research-based writing and critical analysis. It emphasizes clear, concise communication for diverse public and nonprofit audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM105 — Introduction to Communication Studies: An introduction to the foundations of interpersonal, group, and organizational communication. Students analyze various media environments and communication structures. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS110 — Historical Foundations of Social Movements: This course examines the history of civil movements and their reliance on effective investigative storytelling. Students identify patterns in social reform and public communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE102 — Foundations of Ethical Thought: An exploration of moral philosophy and ethical reasoning within a structured academic context. Students apply these frameworks to modern societal issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM120
• Introduction to Journalism
• 3
• ENG101
• SOC150
• Sociology of Communities
• 3
• None
• ENG102
• Advanced Academic Writing
• 3
• ENG101
• MAT201
• Data Analysis for Social Research
• 4
• None
• COM120 — Introduction to Journalism: Students learn the core principles of news gathering, fact-checking, and journalistic writing. The course highlights the reporter’s role in promoting accuracy and community awareness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC150 — Sociology of Communities: A study of social dynamics, community health, and institutional impact. Students analyze the factors that influence community well-being and development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ENG102 — Advanced Academic Writing: Students hone skills in argumentative writing and technical document production. Emphasis is placed on producing content that facilitates public understanding. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT201 — Data Analysis for Social Research: An introduction to statistical methods and the interpretation of quantitative data in research. Students practice identifying trends in social and institutional data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM210
• Investigative Research Methods
• 4
• COM120
• BUS205
• Principles of Management
• 3
• None
• COM230
• Multimedia Production
• 3
• COM120
• PSY220
• Social Psychology
• 3
• None
• COM210 — Investigative Research Methods: This course trains students in deep-dive research techniques including public record requests and archival search. Accuracy and ethical verification are emphasized throughout the research process. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS205 — Principles of Management: An exploration of leadership, resource allocation, and organizational strategy. Students apply management principles to the effective operation of public-interest media. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM230 — Multimedia Production: Technical instruction on digital audio, video, and web-based storytelling tools. Students create media assets for reporting projects. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY220 — Social Psychology: Analysis of how individuals influence and are influenced by society. Students explore behaviors that impact organizational outcomes and community engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM250
• Media Law and Ethics
• 3
• COM210
• MIN210
• Stewardship and Community Service
• 3
• THE102
• COM275
• Feature Writing and Narrative
• 3
• COM210
• RES200
• Introduction to Academic Inquiry
• 3
• ENG102
• COM250 — Media Law and Ethics: Review of the legal parameters of journalism and the ethical standards governing media outlets. Students analyze case studies to understand public duty and responsibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN210 — Stewardship and Community Service: An investigation into the theological concept of stewardship and its application to social engagement. Students design community service projects that support institutional goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM275 — Feature Writing and Narrative: Techniques for crafting compelling, long-form journalistic narratives. The focus is on human-interest storytelling that highlights systemic challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES200 — Introduction to Academic Inquiry: Fundamental skills in information literacy and qualitative research design. Students learn to format research findings for scholarly and professional dissemination. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM310
• Advanced Investigative Reporting
• 4
• COM250
• COM330
• Digital Storytelling and Analytics
• 3
• COM230
• BUS315
• Organizational Leadership
• 3
• BUS205
• CRJ300
• Justice Systems and Public Policy
• 3
• SOC150
• COM310 — Advanced Investigative Reporting: Advanced training in document analysis, source development, and high-stakes verification. Students focus on complex systemic investigation with high ethical standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM330 — Digital Storytelling and Analytics: Study of how digital engagement influences public perceptions and campaign success. Students use analytical tools to measure the impact of content. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS315 — Organizational Leadership: Development of servant leadership skills within diverse teams. Focuses on motivating others toward shared missions of service and integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CRJ300 — Justice Systems and Public Policy: Overview of public justice mechanisms and the role of policy in community stability. Students analyze the impact of reform on local environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM350
• Data Visualization for Journalists
• 3
• MAT201
• COM380
• Crisis Communication
• 3
• COM250
• CHR320
• Worldview and Cultural Engagement
• 3
• THE102
• COM390
• Internship in Media Reporting
• 3
• COM310
• COM350 — Data Visualization for Journalists: Technical training in presenting complex datasets through intuitive visualizations. This enhances the ability of the public to grasp critical information. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM380 — Crisis Communication: Strategies for communication during institutional or social crises. Emphasis is placed on transparency, clear messaging, and maintaining public trust. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR320 — Worldview and Cultural Engagement: Examination of competing worldviews and how they influence media and community perception. Students learn to navigate and communicate effectively in pluralistic settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM390 — Internship in Media Reporting: Professional placement allowing for the application of skills in a field setting. Students demonstrate competency in reporting within real-world constraints. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM410
• Strategic Communications for Nonprofits
• 3
• COM330
• COM420
• Media Ethics in Public Life
• 3
• COM380
• RES400
• Advanced Research Design
• 3
• RES200
• EDU405
• Community Education and Outreach
• 3
• SOC150
• COM410 — Strategic Communications for Nonprofits: Focuses on creating campaigns that highlight the mission and impact of nonprofit entities. Students learn to align narrative output with organizational goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM420 — Media Ethics in Public Life: Advanced seminar on moral challenges within contemporary media industries. Students synthesize previous learning to address complex ethical scenarios. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES400 — Advanced Research Design: Preparation for the capstone project through advanced methodological planning and project design. Students formulate a research question of professional significance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU405 — Community Education and Outreach: Methods for educating the public on critical issues through media platforms. Students evaluate the effectiveness of outreach as a tool for advocacy. 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
• RES400, COM420
• MGT450
• Nonprofit Resource Stewardship
• 3
• BUS315
• COM460
• Portfolio Development and Professionalism
• 3
• CAP490
• HUM480
• Cultural Criticism and Public Discourse
• 3
• CHR320
• CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The final integration project involving independent investigative reporting on a significant issue. Deliverables include a comprehensive dossier, a public presentation, and a theological reflection paper. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT450 — Nonprofit Resource Stewardship: Financial and operational principles for the sustainable management of public-interest organizations. Students learn to manage resources with long-term mission viability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM460 — Portfolio Development and Professionalism: Synthesis of student creative and investigative work into a professional, career-ready portfolio. Focus is on career readiness and servant leadership in media. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM480 — Cultural Criticism and Public Discourse: Students analyze modern discourse to critique how investigative narratives shape public cultural understanding. The course promotes critical reflection on societal progress. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must provide evidence of a completed high school diploma or its recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students are required to submit an academic personal statement reflecting on their interest in investigative reporting, ethical discourse, and the intersection of media and civic service. Additionally, all applicants must participate in an admissions interview to assess their readiness for college-level research and their alignment with the mission of institutional service and community-based engagement. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating intellectual and creative experience for students in the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Investigative Journalism program. This final-year project requires students to execute a comprehensive, in-depth investigative reporting series on a subject of significant social impact. Students are tasked with identifying a systemic issue, conducting rigorous primary and secondary research, verifying factual information, and producing a polished, multi-platform body of work that demonstrates professional-grade journalistic skill and profound ethical reasoning. Beyond technical competence, the capstone provides a structured environment for students to synthesize their academic learning with their personal development as agents of servant leadership. The project requires the submission of a critical reflection paper, which articulates how the student applied a commitment to biblical stewardship and truth-telling throughout their research process. This synthesis of investigative rigor and ethical mindfulness ensures that graduates leave the program prepared to contribute meaningfully to their communities through professional excellence that aligns with their faith-informed vocation and character.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. In addition to core academic coursework, students must achieve a satisfactory grade in the Senior Capstone Project and complete all mandated credits in the general education and communication major sequences. The institution emphasizes that academic success must be paired with spiritual and personal maturity; therefore, students are expected to engage in campus-wide opportunities for community service and spiritual formation, reflecting a commitment to ongoing growth.
• Throughout their tenure, students must demonstrate readiness for faith-informed service by adhering to the university's code of conduct and participating in scheduled collaborative initiatives. Graduation is defined by the integration of intellectual mastery and the demonstrated ability to serve organizations with integrity and transparency. By successfully navigating these requirements, students confirm their preparation to function as ethical professionals and leaders in the field of investigative journalism.
• Career Opportunities
• Investigative Reporter for mission-driven news agencies
• Communications Director for nonprofit organizations
• Advocacy and Public Policy Research Consultant
• Community Engagement and Media Outreach Specialist
• Content Editor for social impact media platforms
• Public Relations Coordinator for faith-based entities
• Nonprofit Development and Media Relations Officer
• 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 Investigative Journalism, Reporting, Specialization in ethical practice
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Faith-Based Investigative Journalism, Reporting, and ethical practice core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG101 | Academic Composition I | 4 | None
• COM105 | Introduction to Communication Studies | 3 | None
• HIS110 | Historical Foundations of Social Movements | 3 | None
• THE102 | Foundations of Ethical Thought | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM120 | Introduction to Journalism | 3 | ENG101
• SOC150 | Sociology of Communities | 3 | None
• ENG102 | Advanced Academic Writing | 3 | ENG101
• MAT201 | Data Analysis for Social Research | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM210 | Investigative Research Methods | 4 | COM120
• BUS205 | Principles of Management | 3 | None
• COM230 | Multimedia Production | 3 | COM120
• PSY220 | Social Psychology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM250 | Media Law and Ethics | 3 | COM210
• MIN210 | Stewardship and Community Service | 3 | THE102
• COM275 | Feature Writing and Narrative | 3 | COM210
• RES200 | Introduction to Academic Inquiry | 3 | ENG102
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM310 | Advanced Investigative Reporting | 4 | COM250
• COM330 | Digital Storytelling and Analytics | 3 | COM230
• BUS315 | Organizational Leadership | 3 | BUS205
• CRJ300 | Justice Systems and Public Policy | 3 | SOC150
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM350 | Data Visualization for Journalists | 3 | MAT201
• COM380 | Crisis Communication | 3 | COM250
• CHR320 | Worldview and Cultural Engagement | 3 | THE102
• COM390 | Internship in Media Reporting | 3 | COM310
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM410 | Strategic Communications for Nonprofits | 3 | COM330
• COM420 | Media Ethics in Public Life | 3 | COM380
• RES400 | Advanced Research Design | 3 | RES200
• EDU405 | Community Education and Outreach | 3 | SOC150
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES400, COM420
• MGT450 | Nonprofit Resource Stewardship | 3 | BUS315
• COM460 | Portfolio Development and Professionalism | 3 | CAP490
• HUM480 | Cultural Criticism and Public Discourse | 3 | CHR320