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Bachelor of Science in Christian Counseling, Specialization in Psychology and Mental Health Counseling

Academic unitHBIU College of Science and PsychologyTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Christian Counseling, Psychology Mental Health Counseling

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Counseling and psychology core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Christian Counseling program provides a rigorous academic foundation in psychological principles, behavioral science, and ethical practice. Students explore the intersection of human development, cognitive function, and social dynamics, while developing the competencies necessary for understanding complex interpersonal relationships. Through a curriculum rooted in scientific inquiry and ethical stewardship, the program emphasizes the practical application of psychological knowledge to diverse populations in various community and organizational contexts.

Students engage with foundational psychological theories and evidence-based methodologies to interpret human behavior and promote social flourishing. The curriculum fosters intellectual growth, encouraging students to analyze societal challenges through an analytical lens while maintaining a commitment to professional integrity. This interdisciplinary approach prepares graduates to navigate the complexities of contemporary social environments with proficiency, character, and a heart for service.

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Christian Counseling, Psychology Mental Health Counseling program combines a robust foundation in general education with a comprehensive study of counseling theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research methodologies, crisis awareness, referral processes, program development, and community-based support strategies.

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 Science. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
B.S. in Faith-Based Christian Counseling, Psychology Mental Health 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 Science and Psychology
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze foundational psychological theories to interpret human behavior and developmental trajectories.
  • Evaluate the ethical implications of behavioral research and practice within diverse cultural contexts.
  • Apply evidence-based psychological assessment methodologies to identify individual strengths and support systems.
  • Integrate Christian worldview perspectives into the development of ethical frameworks for interpersonal support and advocacy.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in academic research by designing a project that addresses a specific community need.
  • Communicate complex psychological concepts effectively to various audiences through oral and written scholarship.
  • Develop a personal philosophy of servant leadership that informs professional practice and community engagement.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 101
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG 101
  • Academic Writing I
  • 3
  • None
  • THE 101
  • Foundations of Christian Thought
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT 105
  • Statistics for the Social Sciences
  • 4
  • None
  • PSY 101 — Introduction to Psychology: An overview of the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Topics include biological foundations, sensation, perception, learning, and personalityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG 101 — Academic Writing I: Focuses on the fundamentals of expository writing, grammar, and research documentation. Emphasizes clear communication of ideas and structural integrityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • THE 101 — Foundations of Christian Thought: Examines the historical and theological foundations of the Christian tradition. Explores biblical narratives and their impact on Western cultureThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MAT 105 — Statistics for the Social Sciences: Covers descriptive and inferential statistics used in social science research. Includes data analysis and software applicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 150
  • Lifespan Development
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • SOC 101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG 102
  • Academic Writing II
  • 3
  • ENG 101
  • COM 110
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 4
  • None
  • PSY 150 — Lifespan Development: Explores human growth and development from conception through late adulthood. Analyzes physical, cognitive, and psychosocial transitionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC 101 — Introduction to Sociology: Introduces the study of social structures, groups, and institutions. Examines cultural norms and the impact of society on individual behaviorThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG 102 — Academic Writing II: Advanced composition focusing on argumentative writing and formal research papers. Emphasizes critical analysis of primary and secondary sourcesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM 110 — Interpersonal Communication: Studies the dynamics of human interaction and effective communication strategies. Focuses on active listening and conflict resolution skillsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU 201
  • Counseling Theory and Practice
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • BIO 210
  • Biological Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • HIS 200
  • World History and Culture
  • 3
  • None
  • MIN 205
  • Servant Leadership Principles
  • 4
  • None
  • COU 201 — Counseling Theory and Practice: Overview of major theoretical perspectives in counseling. Analyzes how different models inform practice and individual interventionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BIO 210 — Biological Psychology: Explores the physiological bases of behavior, including nervous system function and neurochemistry. Links physical structures to mental processesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS 200 — World History and Culture: Surveys significant historical events and cultural developments. Encourages an understanding of global context and human diversityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN 205 — Servant Leadership Principles: Examines models of leadership that prioritize service, stewardship, and ethical influence. Applies leadership theories to organizational contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • PSY 220
  • Social Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • COU 210
  • Ethics in Professional Practice
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • HUM 250
  • Humanities and Values
  • 3
  • None
  • BUS 230
  • Organizational Management
  • 4
  • None
  • PSY 220 — Social Psychology: Investigates how social context influences individual thoughts and actions. Topics include conformity, prejudice, and group dynamicsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COU 210 — Ethics in Professional Practice: Focuses on ethical codes and decision-making frameworks. Addresses issues of confidentiality, boundary maintenance, and professional conductThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HUM 250 — Humanities and Values: Analyzes the role of philosophy and ethics in human life. Evaluates contemporary issues through a framework of enduring human valuesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS 230 — Organizational Management: Provides an overview of management principles for non-profit and community settings. Covers project coordination and administrative basicsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • RES 301
  • Research Methods
  • 3
  • MAT 105
  • COU 315
  • Group Dynamics and Process
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • CHR 305
  • Spiritual Formation and Character
  • 3
  • THE 101
  • PSY 330
  • Personality Psychology
  • 4
  • PSY 101
  • RES 301 — Research Methods: Comprehensive study of research design, data collection, and analysis in psychology. Prepares students for advanced empirical inquiryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COU 315 — Group Dynamics and Process: Focuses on the principles of group structure and facilitation. Analyzes interaction patterns and the impact of group support systemsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR 305 — Spiritual Formation and Character: Explores the development of spiritual maturity and ethical consistency. Emphasizes reflection, community service, and personal growthThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 330 — Personality Psychology: Examines major theories of personality and their application in understanding individual differences. Analyzes trait and behavioral modelsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU 350
  • Crisis Intervention Strategies
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • EDU 320
  • Learning and Cognition
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • PSY 360
  • Multicultural Perspectives
  • 3
  • SOC 101
  • MGT 310
  • Community Resource Management
  • 4
  • BUS 230
  • COU 350 — Crisis Intervention Strategies: Studies models for assisting individuals in acute crisis. Focuses on stabilization techniques, resource identification, and support coordinationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU 320 — Learning and Cognition: Explores cognitive processes such as memory, problem-solving, and information processing. Relates these to pedagogical and instructional designThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 360 — Multicultural Perspectives: Analyzes the impact of cultural background on identity and social interaction. Promotes awareness and competence in diverse environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MGT 310 — Community Resource Management: Focuses on the logistics of providing community services and managing non-profit resources. Emphasizes stewardship and community engagementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COU 410
  • Counseling and Community Health
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • PSY 420
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • RES 400
  • Advanced Research Seminar
  • 3
  • RES 301
  • CRJ 405
  • Conflict Mediation
  • 4
  • None
  • COU 410 — Counseling and Community Health: Examines the relationship between individual well-being and community health. Discusses strategies for prevention and community wellnessThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 420 — Abnormal Psychology: Provides an overview of behavioral patterns and maladaptive traits. Analyzes the impact of life stressors and environmental factorsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES 400 — Advanced Research Seminar: Offers intensive support for capstone project development. Focuses on data interpretation and scholarly synthesis of findingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CRJ 405 — Conflict Mediation: Introduces techniques for mediation and conflict resolution. Applies theoretical models to real-world scenarios requiring impartial negotiationThis 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 400
  • COU 450
  • Advanced Interpersonal Support
  • 3
  • COU 201
  • PSY 480
  • Contemporary Issues in Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY 101
  • BUS 460
  • Non-Profit Strategy and Stewardship
  • 3
  • MGT 310
  • CAP 499 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project integrating psychological theory, research, and ethics. Students must demonstrate competency in a project of original inquiryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COU 450 — Advanced Interpersonal Support: Synthesizes support skills and theoretical knowledge for practical application. Focuses on long-term sustainability and healthy community relationshipsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY 480 — Contemporary Issues in Psychology: Reviews current trends and challenges in behavioral science. Requires analysis of emerging research and its societal implicationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS 460 — Non-Profit Strategy and Stewardship: Evaluates the strategic needs of mission-driven organizations. Focuses on resource optimization, sustainable programming, and ethical oversightThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, and official transcripts from all prior postsecondary institutions. Candidates are evaluated on their commitment to academic excellence, their alignment with the mission of the institution, and their potential for growth within a character-focused learning community. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic achievement for students in the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Christian Counseling program. This project requires students to conduct an original, research-based inquiry that addresses a complex societal issue, requiring the synthesis of theoretical knowledge and empirical evidence acquired throughout their undergraduate tenure. Students are tasked with delivering a comprehensive portfolio, including a research paper and a presentation, that demonstrates their capacity for critical inquiry, methodological precision, and logical synthesis. Beyond academic mastery, the capstone project serves as a vehicle for integrating faith-based perspectives, specifically focusing on the application of ethical reasoning, biblical stewardship, and servant leadership. Students must demonstrate how their proposed solutions reflect a commitment to human dignity and the promotion of community well-being. This synthesis ensures that graduates exit the program not only as competent scholars but as practitioners whose work is informed by spiritual maturity, ethical integrity, and a profound sense of calling to serve others.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0. Students must earn a passing grade in all required core courses, general education requirements, and the Senior Capstone Project. Beyond academic attainment, candidates are expected to demonstrate consistent progress in spiritual formation and character development as evidenced by successful participation in community service initiatives and verified alignment with the institution’s values of stewardship and integrity.
  • The degree is conferred upon students who have demonstrated not only intellectual rigor but also the professional readiness required for faith-informed service. Graduates must show evidence of reflective practice, confirming that their academic journey has contributed to a deeper understanding of their role as leaders within their communities. By balancing rigorous study with a commitment to communal values, students ensure they are prepared to transition into their respective fields with both wisdom and moral clarity.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Community outreach coordinator
  • Social services caseworker
  • Behavioral health technician
  • Non-profit program administrator
  • Human resources professional
  • Youth and family support specialist
  • Advocacy and policy consultant
  • 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 Christian Counseling, Psychology Mental Health Counseling
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Counseling and psychology core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 | None
  • ENG 101 | Academic Writing I | 3 | None
  • THE 101 | Foundations of Christian Thought | 3 | None
  • MAT 105 | Statistics for the Social Sciences | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 150 | Lifespan Development | 3 | PSY 101
  • SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • ENG 102 | Academic Writing II | 3 | ENG 101
  • COM 110 | Interpersonal Communication | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU 201 | Counseling Theory and Practice | 3 | PSY 101
  • BIO 210 | Biological Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • HIS 200 | World History and Culture | 3 | None
  • MIN 205 | Servant Leadership Principles | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • PSY 220 | Social Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • COU 210 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 3 | COU 201
  • HUM 250 | Humanities and Values | 3 | None
  • BUS 230 | Organizational Management | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • RES 301 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT 105
  • COU 315 | Group Dynamics and Process | 3 | COU 201
  • CHR 305 | Spiritual Formation and Character | 3 | THE 101
  • PSY 330 | Personality Psychology | 4 | PSY 101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU 350 | Crisis Intervention Strategies | 3 | COU 201
  • EDU 320 | Learning and Cognition | 3 | PSY 101
  • PSY 360 | Multicultural Perspectives | 3 | SOC 101
  • MGT 310 | Community Resource Management | 4 | BUS 230
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COU 410 | Counseling and Community Health | 3 | COU 201
  • PSY 420 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • RES 400 | Advanced Research Seminar | 3 | RES 301
  • CRJ 405 | Conflict Mediation | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP 499 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | RES 400
  • COU 450 | Advanced Interpersonal Support | 3 | COU 201
  • PSY 480 | Contemporary Issues in Psychology | 3 | PSY 101
  • BUS 460 | Non-Profit Strategy and Stewardship | 3 | MGT 310

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Community outreach coordinator
  • Social services caseworker
  • Behavioral health technician
  • Non-profit program administrator
  • Human resources professional
  • Youth and family support specialist
  • Advocacy and policy consultant

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.S. in Faith-Based Christian Counseling, Psychology Mental Health Counseling
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years