Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Addiction Counseling, Specialization in Recovery Services

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Addiction Counseling

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 Addiction Counseling

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Analyze the bio-psycho-social factors contributing to substance use disorders through a multidisciplinary lens.
• Apply ethical decision-making frameworks that align with professional standards and Christian service principles.
• Design effective recovery support interventions that respect the cultural and spiritual dimensions of diverse populations.
• Communicate complex behavioral health concepts with clarity to stakeholders in community and nonprofit settings.
• Integrate spiritual formation and ethical reasoning into the development of community-based recovery resources.
• Evaluate the impact of nonprofit organizational structures on the delivery of social support services.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG 101
• Academic Writing and Rhetoric
• 4
• None
• PSY 101
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• PSY 105
• Foundations of Behavioral Wellness
• 3
• None
• SOC 101
• Introduction to Sociology
• 3
• None
• ENG 101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: This course focuses on developing foundational research, writing, and analytical skills. Students learn to synthesize information and construct persuasive arguments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: An overview of the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Students explore major psychological theories and their practical applications. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 105 — Foundations of Behavioral Wellness: This course explores the biological and psychological components of self-regulation and personal development throughout the lifespan. Students analyze evidence-based practices for fostering emotional resilience and individual growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: An introduction to the study of social structures, institutions, and human interaction. Focus is given to understanding community dynamics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 150
• Fundamentals of Counseling
• 3
• PSY 101
• MAT 120
• Applied Statistics
• 3
• None
• COM 110
• Professional Communication
• 3
• ENG 101
• BIO 110
• Biological Basis of Human Behavior
• 4
• None
• COU 150 — Fundamentals of Counseling: An introduction to the basic skills and ethics involved in supportive counseling relationships. Students practice active listening and empathetic engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT 120 — Applied Statistics: This course introduces statistical methods used in social research and data analysis. Students learn to interpret quantitative findings for informed decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 110 — Professional Communication: Focuses on effective oral and written communication in professional and organizational environments. Students improve their public speaking and interpersonal skills. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BIO 110 — Biological Basis of Human Behavior: Explores the physiological aspects of human development and the impact of neurobiology on behavior. Students connect biological systems with environmental stressors. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 210
• Dynamics of Addiction
• 4
• COU 150
• CHR 201
• Ethics in Service
• 3
• THE 101
• BUS 220
• Introduction to Nonprofit Management
• 3
• None
• PSY 230
• Developmental Psychology
• 3
• PSY 101
• COU 210 — Dynamics of Addiction: Examines the psychological, social, and physical aspects of substance use disorders. Students evaluate various models of recovery and intervention. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR 201 — Ethics in Service: Investigates the intersection of ethical theory and professional practice in the helping professions. Students focus on the application of biblical principles to moral dilemmas. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 220 — Introduction to Nonprofit Management: An overview of the operational and leadership requirements for nonprofit organizations. Students analyze resource management and organizational strategy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 230 — Developmental Psychology: Explores the lifespan development of individuals from infancy through adulthood. Students identify developmental stages and their influence on recovery. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 250
• Group Facilitation Skills
• 3
• COU 150
• SOC 260
• Social Problems in Contemporary Society
• 3
• SOC 101
• HIS 210
• History of Social Reform Movements
• 3
• None
• RES 280
• Research Methods
• 4
• MAT 120
• COU 250 — Group Facilitation Skills: Students learn the techniques for leading support groups and facilitating group dynamics. Emphasis is placed on creating safe and productive environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 260 — Social Problems in Contemporary Society: Analyzes systemic social issues affecting vulnerable populations. Students investigate the root causes of community instability and marginalization. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS 210 — History of Social Reform Movements: Traces the evolution of social advocacy and the role of faith-based movements in improving human welfare. Students analyze historical responses to poverty and addiction. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 280 — Research Methods: Introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Students learn how to evaluate community data to inform program development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 310
• Recovery Support Systems
• 4
• COU 210
• MGT 305
• Leadership in Nonprofits
• 3
• BUS 220
• PSY 320
• Counseling and Crisis Intervention
• 3
• COU 150
• EDU 310
• Instructional Design for Community Education
• 3
• COM 110
• COU 310 — Recovery Support Systems: Focuses on the creation and maintenance of community-based support systems for long-term recovery. Students study evidence-informed resources that support sobriety. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT 305 — Leadership in Nonprofits: Explores theories of servant leadership and organizational governance. Students learn to steward resources effectively and manage diverse teams. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 320 — Counseling and Crisis Intervention: Examines the principles of crisis management in recovery settings. Students practice stabilizing individuals during acute distress and connecting them to resources. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU 310 — Instructional Design for Community Education: Covers how to design and deliver workshops and training programs for community members. Focus is on clarity, engagement, and accessibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 350
• Family Systems and Addiction
• 3
• COU 210
• MIN 320
• Community Engagement Strategies
• 3
• SOC 101
• CRJ 340
• Legal and Ethical Issues in Recovery
• 3
• CHR 201
• PSY 360
• Psychology of Motivation
• 3
• PSY 101
• COU 350 — Family Systems and Addiction: Studies the impact of addiction on familial relationships and systems. Students learn to facilitate support for families experiencing conflict and trauma. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN 320 — Community Engagement Strategies: Explores how organizations interact with and serve the broader community. Students examine strategies for building partnerships and addressing needs effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CRJ 340 — Legal and Ethical Issues in Recovery: Examines the legal landscape governing recovery services, including liability and confidentiality. Students explore the intersection of law and social service ethics. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 360 — Psychology of Motivation: Investigates the underlying psychological mechanisms that promote sustained change and recovery. Students apply motivational techniques to support participants. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COU 410
• Advanced Topics in Recovery Services
• 4
• COU 310
• MGT 420
• Strategic Planning in Nonprofits
• 3
• MGT 305
• HUM 400
• Cultural Competency and Global Stewardship
• 3
• None
• SOC 430
• Sociology of Community Health
• 3
• SOC 260
• COU 410 — Advanced Topics in Recovery Services: Explores emerging trends and complex challenges in addiction recovery. Students critically examine current service delivery models and policy changes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT 420 — Strategic Planning in Nonprofits: Focuses on long-term strategy for nonprofit organizations. Students learn to align organizational goals with community impact and sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM 400 — Cultural Competency and Global Stewardship: Examines the importance of cultural awareness in providing equitable support services. Students discuss the responsibilities of global citizenship and stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 430 — Sociology of Community Health: Addresses the societal factors that influence public health and wellness. Students look at how community health initiatives can reduce health disparities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP 499
• Senior Capstone Project
• 4
• RES 280, MGT 420
• COU 450
• Professionalism in Practice
• 3
• All Core Courses
• BUS 410
• Grant Writing and Fundraising
• 3
• BUS 220
• SOC 450
• Professionalism and Social Responsibility
• 3
• THE 101
• CAP 499 — Senior Capstone Project: This course requires students to execute an original recovery program proposal that integrates academic research and ethical reflection. The project documents the application of faith-informed leadership to community service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COU 450 — Professionalism in Practice: Focuses on the transition to the workplace, emphasizing career readiness and professional ethics. Students develop a professional portfolio and career plan. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 410 — Grant Writing and Fundraising: Introduces the practical elements of securing financial support for nonprofit programs. Students analyze successful grant proposals and fundraising strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 450 — Professionalism and Social Responsibility: This course examines the role of social advocacy and community-oriented service within the context of nonprofit sector careers. Students develop a professional portfolio and evaluate the ethics of civic engagement in modern society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students must submit a personal statement reflecting their commitment to servant leadership and community service, along with official transcripts from all previously attended postsecondary institutions. 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. Its purpose is to require students to synthesize the knowledge gained throughout their course of study by designing a comprehensive recovery support model for a specific community or nonprofit organization. The scope of this project includes an extensive literature review, a program proposal, and an ethical evaluation of the proposed service delivery model. Integrating a Christian worldview, the project necessitates that students demonstrate how their work reflects stewardship, compassion, and vocational calling. Students must articulate how their proposed interventions adhere to ethical standards while promoting human flourishing. The final deliverables include a formal presentation and a written paper that serve as evidence of both the student's academic competence and their commitment to faith-informed character development.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. In addition to academic coursework, students must complete the Senior Capstone Project, demonstrating mastery of the program's core competencies. Academic success is intentionally linked with spiritual formation, and students are expected to participate in community service and institutional spiritual life requirements to ensure the cultivation of integrity and servant-leadership.
• Candidates must exemplify character development throughout their tenure, reflecting the ethical and moral expectations of the university. By fulfilling these requirements, students demonstrate not only their academic readiness for professional service but also a deep-seated commitment to moral excellence and the stewardship of their vocational influence within faith-informed, community-based organizations.
• Career Opportunities
• Recovery Support Specialist
• Nonprofit Program Coordinator
• Community Outreach Manager
• Behavioral Health Case Aide
• Faith-Based Initiative Director
• Addiction Recovery Advocate
• 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 Faith-Based Addiction Counseling
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Faith-Based Addiction Counseling core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG 101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 4 | None
• PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• PSY 105 | Foundations of Behavioral Wellness | 3 | None
• SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 150 | Fundamentals of Counseling | 3 | PSY 101
• MAT 120 | Applied Statistics | 3 | None
• COM 110 | Professional Communication | 3 | ENG 101
• BIO 110 | Biological Basis of Human Behavior | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 210 | Dynamics of Addiction | 4 | COU 150
• CHR 201 | Ethics in Service | 3 | THE 101
• BUS 220 | Introduction to Nonprofit Management | 3 | None
• PSY 230 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 250 | Group Facilitation Skills | 3 | COU 150
• SOC 260 | Social Problems in Contemporary Society | 3 | SOC 101
• HIS 210 | History of Social Reform Movements | 3 | None
• RES 280 | Research Methods | 4 | MAT 120
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 310 | Recovery Support Systems | 4 | COU 210
• MGT 305 | Leadership in Nonprofits | 3 | BUS 220
• PSY 320 | Counseling and Crisis Intervention | 3 | COU 150
• EDU 310 | Instructional Design for Community Education | 3 | COM 110
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 350 | Family Systems and Addiction | 3 | COU 210
• MIN 320 | Community Engagement Strategies | 3 | SOC 101
• CRJ 340 | Legal and Ethical Issues in Recovery | 3 | CHR 201
• PSY 360 | Psychology of Motivation | 3 | PSY 101
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COU 410 | Advanced Topics in Recovery Services | 4 | COU 310
• MGT 420 | Strategic Planning in Nonprofits | 3 | MGT 305
• HUM 400 | Cultural Competency and Global Stewardship | 3 | None
• SOC 430 | Sociology of Community Health | 3 | SOC 260
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP 499 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES 280, MGT 420
• COU 450 | Professionalism in Practice | 3 | All Core Courses
• BUS 410 | Grant Writing and Fundraising | 3 | BUS 220
• SOC 450 | Professionalism and Social Responsibility | 3 | THE 101