Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Data Science, Analytics for Social Impact

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Data Science, Analytics for Social Impact

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 Computer Science

Total credits

120

Duration

4 years

• Analyze complex datasets using statistical and computational methods to identify patterns and trends relevant to social issues.
• Apply principles of data visualization to effectively communicate findings to diverse audiences, including stakeholders in faith-based and community organizations.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of data collection, analysis, and application within the context of Christian values and social responsibility.
• Design and implement data-driven solutions to address specific social challenges, demonstrating a commitment to servant leadership and community impact.
• Interpret statistical models and machine learning algorithms to derive actionable insights for decision-making in social impact initiatives.
• Integrate a Christian worldview and principles of biblical stewardship into the practice of data science for social good.
• Develop collaborative and communicative skills to effectively engage with teams and communities in data-informed projects.
• Demonstrate proficiency in programming languages and tools commonly used in data science for real-world applications.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG 101
• Composition and Rhetoric
• 3
• None
• MAT 140
• College Algebra
• 3
• High school algebra or equivalent
• CSC 100
• Introduction to Computer Science
• 3
• None
• SOC 101
• Foundations of Social Systems and Culture
• 3
• None
• ENG 101 — Composition and Rhetoric: This course introduces the fundamental principles of effective written communication, focusing on clarity, argumentation, and audience awareness. Students will practice various essay structures and develop critical reading skills. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT 140 — College Algebra: This course covers essential algebraic concepts, including functions, equations, inequalities, and polynomial and rational expressions. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving and algebraic manipulation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 100 — Introduction to Computer Science: This course provides an overview of fundamental computer science concepts, including hardware, software, algorithms, and programming paradigms. Students will gain a basic understanding of computational thinking. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 101 — Foundations of Social Systems and Culture: This course examines the fundamental structures of societal organization and the development of institutional frameworks. Students analyze how social values shape communal identity and structure interaction within diverse populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG 102
• Research and Argumentation
• 3
• ENG 101
• MAT 150
• Calculus I
• 4
• MAT 140
• CSC 150
• Introduction to Programming
• 3
• CSC 100
• SOC 201
• Introduction to Sociology
• 3
• None
• ENG 102 — Research and Argumentation: Building upon Composition and Rhetoric, this course focuses on developing research skills, evaluating sources, and constructing persuasive arguments. Students will engage in research projects and academic discourse. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT 150 — Calculus I: This course introduces the fundamental concepts of differential and integral calculus, including limits, derivatives, and basic integration techniques. Problem-solving applications will be explored. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 150 — Introduction to Programming: This course introduces the fundamental principles of programming using a high-level language. Students will learn about variables, control structures, data types, and basic algorithms. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC 201 — Introduction to Sociology: This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts, theories, and methods of sociology. Students will examine social structures, institutions, and human behavior within societal contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MAT 200
• Introduction to Statistics
• 3
• MAT 140
• CSC 220
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• 3
• CSC 150
• PHI 201
• Introduction to Ethics
• 3
• None
• HIS 101
• World Civilizations
• 3
• None
• MAT 200 — Introduction to Statistics: This course covers descriptive and inferential statistics, including probability, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression. Emphasis is placed on the application of statistical methods. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 220 — Data Structures and Algorithms: This course explores fundamental data structures such as arrays, lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs, along with their associated algorithms. Efficiency analysis is a key component. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PHI 201 — Introduction to Ethics: This course examines major ethical theories and principles, exploring fundamental questions about morality, right and wrong, and ethical decision-making. Case studies will be used to illustrate ethical dilemmas. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS 101 — World Civilizations: This course surveys the development of human civilization from ancient times to the present, focusing on major historical events, cultural achievements, and societal transformations. It provides a broad historical context for understanding contemporary issues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CSC 250
• Programming for Data Science
• 3
• CSC 150
• MAT 210
• Linear Algebra
• 3
• MAT 140
• BUS 301
• Introduction to Management
• 3
• None
• PSY 201
• Introduction to Psychology
• 3
• None
• CSC 250 — Programming for Data Science: This course focuses on using programming languages, particularly Python, for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization. Students will learn to use libraries such as Pandas and Matplotlib. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MAT 210 — Linear Algebra: This course covers vector spaces, matrices, linear transformations, determinants, and eigenvalues. Emphasis is placed on theoretical understanding and computational applications. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 301 — Introduction to Management: This course explores the fundamental functions of management, including planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. It examines organizational structures and effective leadership strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY 201 — Introduction to Psychology: This course provides an overview of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Topics include sensation, perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotion, and personality. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CSC 310
• Database Management Systems
• 3
• CSC 220
• CSC 330
• Introduction to Data Mining
• 3
• MAT 200, CSC 250
• COM 301
• Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
• 3
• ENG 101
• RES 300
• Research Methods for Social Sciences
• 3
• SOC 201, MAT 200
• CSC 310 — Database Management Systems: This course covers the principles of database design, implementation, and management. Students will learn about relational databases, SQL, and data modeling techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 330 — Introduction to Data Mining: This course explores techniques for discovering patterns and knowledge from large datasets. Topics include classification, clustering, association rule mining, and outlier detection. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 301 — Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: This course develops effective oral communication skills for public and professional settings. Students will learn to prepare and deliver engaging presentations and manage public speaking anxiety. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 300 — Research Methods for Social Sciences: This course introduces students to the fundamental methodologies used in social science research, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, survey design, and data analysis techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CSC 340
• Data Visualization
• 3
• CSC 250, MAT 200
• CSC 350
• Machine Learning Fundamentals
• 3
• MAT 210, CSC 250
• BUS 305
• Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility
• 3
• THE 101, PHI 201
• CSC 400
• Applied Statistics for Data Science
• 3
• MAT 200
• CSC 340 — Data Visualization: This course focuses on the principles and techniques of creating effective visual representations of data. Students will explore various charting methods and tools for interactive data exploration. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 350 — Machine Learning Fundamentals: This course introduces the basic concepts and algorithms of machine learning, including supervised and unsupervised learning. Students will learn about model training, evaluation, and common applications. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS 305 — Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility: This course provides an overview of ethical decision-making frameworks within public and private sector organizations. Participants explore the application of professional standards to address social challenges and ensure equitable organizational governance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 400 — Applied Statistics for Data Science: This course delves into advanced statistical methods critical for data science, including regression analysis, time series analysis, and experimental design. Emphasis is placed on practical application and interpretation of results. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CSC 410
• Big Data Technologies
• 3
• CSC 310, CSC 330
• CSC 420
• Ethical Data Science and Social Impact
• 3
• CSC 330, PHI 201
• MGT 405
• Servant Leadership and Community Development
• 3
• BUS 301, SOC 201
• CAP 490
• Senior Capstone Project I
• 3
• RES 300, CSC 340
• CSC 410 — Big Data Technologies: This course explores the technologies and frameworks used for managing and analyzing large-scale datasets. Topics include distributed computing, cloud platforms, and data warehousing. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 420 — Ethical Data Science and Social Impact: This course examines the ethical considerations and societal implications of data science, focusing on responsible data use, privacy, bias, and fairness in algorithmic decision-making. It emphasizes applying data science for positive social change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT 405 — Servant Leadership and Community Development: This course explores the principles and practices of servant leadership within the context of community development and social impact initiatives. Students will examine how ethical leadership fosters sustainable change and empowers communities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP 490 — Senior Capstone Project I: This course is the first part of a two-semester capstone sequence. Students will define a research problem, develop a project proposal, and begin preliminary data collection and analysis for their chosen social impact project. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP 491
• Senior Capstone Project II
• 6
• CAP 490
• CSC 430
• Advanced Data Analytics and Modeling
• 3
• CSC 350, CSC 400
• RES 400
• Data Interpretation and Reporting
• 3
• RES 300, CSC 340
• COM 410
• Communicating Data for Social Impact
• 3
• COM 301, CSC 340
• CAP 491 — Senior Capstone Project II: This course is the continuation and completion of the Senior Capstone Project. Students will finalize data analysis, synthesize findings, develop recommendations, and prepare a comprehensive written report and final presentation, demonstrating their ability to apply data science for social impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CSC 430 — Advanced Data Analytics and Modeling: This course delves into advanced analytical techniques and modeling strategies, including predictive modeling, time series forecasting, and anomaly detection. Students will apply these methods to complex datasets for deeper insights. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES 400 — Data Interpretation and Reporting: This course focuses on the critical interpretation of data analysis results and the effective reporting of findings to various stakeholders. Students will learn to translate complex analytical outcomes into clear, actionable insights and recommendations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM 410 — Communicating Data for Social Impact: This course equips students with the skills to communicate data-driven insights effectively to diverse audiences, particularly those involved in social impact initiatives. Emphasis is placed on storytelling with data and advocating for evidence-based solutions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants seeking admission to the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Data Science, Analytics for Social Impact program must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with a demonstrated academic record reflecting preparedness for postsecondary study. Specific requirements may include a minimum GPA, successful completion of foundational mathematics coursework (e.g., Algebra I and II, Pre-Calculus), and submission of standardized test scores or a portfolio, as per HBI University's general admission policies. Applicants are also encouraged to articulate their interest in applying data science for social impact and their alignment with the university's faith-based mission. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project is a significant, culminating academic experience designed to integrate and demonstrate the comprehensive knowledge and skills acquired throughout the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Data Science, Analytics for Social Impact program. Students will undertake a substantial project, either individually or in a small team, that addresses a real-world social issue through data science methodologies. This project will require students to define a problem, collect and analyze relevant data, develop insights, and propose evidence-based solutions. The capstone experience is intended to foster a deeper understanding of ethical data application, servant leadership, and biblical stewardship. Students are expected to critically reflect on their project's implications, ensuring that their analytical work aligns with Christian principles of justice, compassion, and the common good. The project will culminate in a comprehensive written report and a public presentation, showcasing both technical competence and faith-informed character development. This endeavor serves as a testament to the student's readiness to apply their data science expertise in service to humanity, guided by a mature Christian worldview.

• To be eligible for graduation with the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Data Science, Analytics for Social Impact, students must successfully complete all 120 required credit hours with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0. This includes the satisfactory completion of all core curriculum, major requirements, and the Senior Capstone Project. In addition to academic accomplishments, candidates must demonstrate adherence to the university's faith-based formation expectations. These may include active participation in campus spiritual life, completion of specific Christian formation courses, and engagement in community service activities that reflect a commitment to servant leadership and ethical integrity.
• The graduation requirements are designed to ensure that students not only achieve academic excellence in data science but also grow in spiritual maturity and character. Graduates will be recognized for their ability to integrate their academic learning with a profound understanding of their faith, preparing them for lives of meaningful service and ethical leadership in a complex world. The successful navigation of these requirements signifies a readiness to apply data science skills responsibly and compassionately, advancing the common good.
• Career Opportunities
• Data Analyst for Non-Profit Organizations
• Social Impact Researcher
• Community Health Data Specialist
• Program Evaluator for Social Services
• Faith-Based Organization Operations Analyst
• Urban Planning Data Consultant
• Faith Community Outreach Coordinator
• Analytics Manager for Charitable Foundations
• 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.S. in Faith-Based Data Science, Analytics for Social Impact
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Faith-Based Data Science, Analytics for Social Impact core | 63 credit hours
• Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
• Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG 101 | Composition and Rhetoric | 3 | None
• MAT 140 | College Algebra | 3 | High school algebra or equivalent
• CSC 100 | Introduction to Computer Science | 3 | None
• SOC 101 | Foundations of Social Systems and Culture | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• ENG 102 | Research and Argumentation | 3 | ENG 101
• MAT 150 | Calculus I | 4 | MAT 140
• CSC 150 | Introduction to Programming | 3 | CSC 100
• SOC 201 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MAT 200 | Introduction to Statistics | 3 | MAT 140
• CSC 220 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 3 | CSC 150
• PHI 201 | Introduction to Ethics | 3 | None
• HIS 101 | World Civilizations | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CSC 250 | Programming for Data Science | 3 | CSC 150
• MAT 210 | Linear Algebra | 3 | MAT 140
• BUS 301 | Introduction to Management | 3 | None
• PSY 201 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CSC 310 | Database Management Systems | 3 | CSC 220
• CSC 330 | Introduction to Data Mining | 3 | MAT 200, CSC 250
• COM 301 | Public Speaking and Presentation Skills | 3 | ENG 101
• RES 300 | Research Methods for Social Sciences | 3 | SOC 201, MAT 200
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CSC 340 | Data Visualization | 3 | CSC 250, MAT 200
• CSC 350 | Machine Learning Fundamentals | 3 | MAT 210, CSC 250
• BUS 305 | Professional Ethics and Social Responsibility | 3 | THE 101, PHI 201
• CSC 400 | Applied Statistics for Data Science | 3 | MAT 200
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CSC 410 | Big Data Technologies | 3 | CSC 310, CSC 330
• CSC 420 | Ethical Data Science and Social Impact | 3 | CSC 330, PHI 201
• MGT 405 | Servant Leadership and Community Development | 3 | BUS 301, SOC 201
• CAP 490 | Senior Capstone Project I | 3 | RES 300, CSC 340
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP 491 | Senior Capstone Project II | 6 | CAP 490
• CSC 430 | Advanced Data Analytics and Modeling | 3 | CSC 350, CSC 400
• RES 400 | Data Interpretation and Reporting | 3 | RES 300, CSC 340
• COM 410 | Communicating Data for Social Impact | 3 | COM 301, CSC 340