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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach

Academic unitHBIU College of Education and Human DevelopmentTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Astronomy and Space Education Public Outreach is a multidisciplinary degree program designed to bridge the rigorous study of astrophysical sciences with the essential communication strategies required for effective public engagement. Students explore the intersection of cosmic exploration and ethical stewardship, examining how scientific literacy serves as a vehicle for community education and wonder. The program emphasizes the integration of empirical discovery with a foundational worldview that affirms the dignity of creation and the responsibilities of human inquiry.

Throughout the curriculum, learners engage in astronomical observation, planetary science, and the pedagogical methods necessary to translate complex concepts for diverse public audiences. By combining analytical coursework with a commitment to servant leadership and ethical responsibility, this program equips students to lead educational initiatives within museums, observatories, and nonprofit organizations. The program fosters a holistic approach, ensuring that intellectual development is perpetually balanced with a dedication to the common good.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach combines a robust general education foundation with comprehensive study in the theory of faith-based astronomy, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support.

Florida's current standard establishes a minimum of 120 semester credits for a bachelor's degree and at least 30 general-education credits for a Bachelor of Arts. This curriculum exceeds the general-education minimum.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
B.A. in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach
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 Education and Human Development
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze foundational astronomical phenomena and space exploration history using rigorous scientific methods.
  • Design inclusive public outreach curricula that adapt complex scientific data for diverse community demographics.
  • Evaluate the ethical implications of space exploration and technology through a consistent, faith-informed worldview.
  • Integrate principles of servant leadership and biblical stewardship into the practice of public scientific communication.
  • Develop professional collaborative strategies to enhance the impact of educational programs within nonprofit settings.
  • Demonstrate mastery in public speaking and multimedia presentation to communicate scientific discoveries effectively.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • AST101
  • Foundations of Astronomy
  • 4
  • None
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • 3
  • None
  • MIN101
  • Principles of Servant Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT110
  • College Algebra for Science
  • 3
  • None
  • AST101 — Foundations of Astronomy: An introduction to the solar system, stars, and galaxies through observational science. Students investigate the mechanics of the universe as a complex and orderly system. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: Exploration of persuasive communication and clear articulation of ideas in professional contexts. Students develop skills in research and structured argumentation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MIN101 — Principles of Servant Leadership: A study of leadership models grounded in selflessness, ethical decision-making, and communal support. Students examine the application of character-driven influence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MAT110 — College Algebra for Science: Application of algebraic principles to scientific modeling and quantitative analysis. Focuses on data interpretation relevant to physical sciences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • AST102
  • Space Exploration History
  • 3
  • AST101
  • COM120
  • Public Speaking for Educators
  • 3
  • ENG101
  • SOC150
  • Community Engagement and Outreach
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC105
  • Foundations of Cultural Perspectives
  • 3
  • None
  • AST102 — Space Exploration History: Historical analysis of humanity's expansion into space and the ethical dimensions of exploration. Evaluates the impact of technology on societal progress. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM120 — Public Speaking for Educators: Development of oral presentation skills tailored for public outreach and instructional settings. Students practice engaging diverse audiences through clear delivery. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC150 — Community Engagement and Outreach: Strategies for connecting with local communities to assess needs and provide educational resources. Emphasizes the importance of collaborative partnerships. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC105 — Foundations of Cultural Perspectives: This course explores the sociological frameworks that shape how various communities interpret scientific and educational phenomena. It analyzes the role of diverse belief systems in institutional development and community outreach. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • AST201
  • Stellar Evolution and Cosmology
  • 4
  • AST101
  • EDU210
  • Pedagogical Theory for Nonprofits
  • 3
  • None
  • RES200
  • Scientific Research Methods
  • 3
  • MAT110
  • BUS220
  • Nonprofit Resource Management
  • 3
  • None
  • AST201 — Stellar Evolution and Cosmology: Advanced study of the life cycles of stars and the large-scale structure of the universe. Utilizes observation data to explain physical processes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU210 — Pedagogical Theory for Nonprofits: Analysis of adult and youth learning styles specifically within informal educational environments. Designing curricula for maximum engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES200 — Scientific Research Methods: An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research techniques for scientific communication. Focuses on data integrity and ethical reporting. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS220 — Nonprofit Resource Management: Principles of fiscal stewardship and resource allocation in mission-driven organizations. Emphasizes sustainability and transparency. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • AST205
  • Planetary Science and Astrobiology
  • 3
  • AST101
  • COM240
  • Multimedia Outreach Tools
  • 3
  • COM120
  • PSY230
  • Psychology of Learning and Discovery
  • 3
  • None
  • THE250
  • Ethics in Science and Stewardship
  • 3
  • CHR105
  • AST205 — Planetary Science and Astrobiology: Survey of planetary bodies in our solar system and the search for conditions suitable for life. Examines scientific evidence alongside philosophical inquiry. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM240 — Multimedia Outreach Tools: Technical instruction in digital media creation and social media strategies for science communication. Equips students to amplify organizational impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY230 — Psychology of Learning and Discovery: Exploration of cognitive developmental processes related to how individuals learn scientific concepts. Focuses on bridging the gap between theory and understanding. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • THE250 — Ethics in Science and Stewardship: Study of ethical frameworks regarding environmental stewardship, technology development, and academic honesty. Integrates faith-based principles for professional conduct. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • AST301
  • Observational Astronomy Workshop
  • 4
  • AST201
  • EDU315
  • Curriculum Design for Public Literacy
  • 3
  • EDU210
  • MGT320
  • Organizational Leadership and Culture
  • 3
  • MIN101
  • HIS330
  • History of Science and Public Perception
  • 3
  • CHR105
  • AST301 — Observational Astronomy Workshop: Hands-on experience with telescopes and astronomical data analysis. Focuses on technical proficiency in gathering and interpreting celestial data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU315 — Curriculum Design for Public Literacy: Advanced design of educational workshops and interactive displays for museums and centers. Emphasis on alignment with scientific standards and organizational goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT320 — Organizational Leadership and Culture: Analysis of organizational dynamics, mission preservation, and team collaboration in nonprofit entities. Focuses on fostering a culture of excellence and faith-based values. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS330 — History of Science and Public Perception: This course examines the historical development of scientific thought and its evolving relationship with public discourse and social values. Students analyze key historical junctures where scientific discovery intersected with communal ethics and public policy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • AST350
  • Cosmic Origins and Philosophy
  • 3
  • AST201
  • COM360
  • Technical Writing for Public Outreach
  • 3
  • ENG101
  • SOC370
  • Social Justice and Equitable Science
  • 3
  • SOC150
  • BUS380
  • Grant Writing and Fundraising
  • 3
  • BUS220
  • AST350 — Cosmic Origins and Philosophy: Exploration of the origins of the universe, integrating current cosmological theories with philosophical discussions on purpose and meaning. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM360 — Technical Writing for Public Outreach: Instruction in translating research papers into accessible narratives for diverse public demographics. Emphasis on clarity and accuracy in communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC370 — Social Justice and Equitable Science: Examining barriers to scientific education in underserved communities and developing strategies for inclusive access. Promotes servant leadership through outreach. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS380 — Grant Writing and Fundraising: Practical application of fundraising techniques and grant proposal development for scientific outreach programs. Highlights financial integrity in nonprofit contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • AST401
  • Current Research in Space Science
  • 3
  • AST301
  • EDU410
  • Internship in Outreach Settings
  • 4
  • EDU315
  • MGT420
  • Nonprofit Strategic Planning
  • 3
  • MGT320
  • HUM430
  • Cultural Impact of Science
  • 3
  • None
  • AST401 — Current Research in Space Science: Critical survey of contemporary discoveries and debates in astrophysics. Requires synthesis of interdisciplinary knowledge to evaluate current space research. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU410 — Internship in Outreach Settings: Supervised fieldwork within an observatory, planetarium, or community center. Students apply academic theories to real-world educational scenarios. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT420 — Nonprofit Strategic Planning: Development of long-term strategic plans for organizational growth and mission fulfillment. Focuses on operational excellence and mission-aligned decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM430 — Cultural Impact of Science: Critical analysis of how scientific discovery shapes cultural norms and narratives in contemporary society. Encourages thoughtful discourse on human impact. 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
  • EDU410, CAP permission
  • AST450
  • Advanced Astrophysical Discourse
  • 3
  • AST401
  • MGT460
  • Professional Ethics and Vocational Development
  • 3
  • THE250
  • BUS470
  • Professional Ethics and Law
  • 3
  • MGT320
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The culmination of the degree program, requiring the design and execution of an original public outreach project. Students demonstrate academic rigor and faith-informed ethical leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • AST450 — Advanced Astrophysical Discourse: Seminar on the integration of astrophysical theory and communication strategy. Students refine their approach to defending science within community contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT460 — Professional Ethics and Vocational Development: This course provides an overview of professional career development and ethical decision-making within the nonprofit sector. It focuses on aligning personal career goals with organizational values and service-oriented career paths. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS470 — Professional Ethics and Law: Review of the legal and ethical landscapes governing nonprofit public outreach operations. Focuses on compliance, transparency, and personal accountability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

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 are required to submit an academic personal statement detailing their commitment to intellectual growth and community service, along with official transcripts from all secondary institutions attended. Admission is holistic, considering both academic readiness and the student’s alignment with the university’s mission of faith-informed service and personal integrity. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience, requiring students to design and execute a comprehensive public outreach program centered on an astronomical or space-science theme. This project is worth 4 credit hours and demands that students synthesize their scientific knowledge with practical educational strategies, demonstrating mastery in both content delivery and organizational planning. Students must integrate faith-based perspectives by articulating how their project reflects ethical reasoning, servant leadership, and the responsible stewardship of scientific discovery. The project culminates in a professional portfolio and a public presentation, showcasing the student’s ability to align academic competence with a clear commitment to serving the community. This synthesis ensures that graduates exit the program with both the professional skills necessary for public outreach and the character development required for impactful, integrity-driven service.

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 GPA of 2.0. Students must satisfy all core, elective, and capstone requirements, ensuring that their academic record reflects a comprehensive understanding of both astronomical sciences and pedagogical outreach. Each student is expected to demonstrate academic excellence alongside consistent growth in ethical maturity and community engagement.
  • Beyond academic credits, students must fulfill requirements related to spiritual formation, including regular chapel participation and the completion of 40 hours of supervised community service. This holistic approach ensures that students graduate not only as technically proficient educators but also as individuals prepared to serve with integrity, compassion, and a clear vision for faith-informed contributions to the broader public sphere.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Science Museum Educator
  • Planetarium Outreach Coordinator
  • Nonprofit Educational Program Director
  • Community Science Communication Specialist
  • Faith-Based Youth Science Ministry Lead
  • Public Observatory Educational Consultant
  • Science Literacy Advocacy 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 Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • AST101 | Foundations of Astronomy | 4 | None
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
  • MIN101 | Principles of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
  • MAT110 | College Algebra for Science | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • AST102 | Space Exploration History | 3 | AST101
  • COM120 | Public Speaking for Educators | 3 | ENG101
  • SOC150 | Community Engagement and Outreach | 3 | None
  • SOC105 | Foundations of Cultural Perspectives | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • AST201 | Stellar Evolution and Cosmology | 4 | AST101
  • EDU210 | Pedagogical Theory for Nonprofits | 3 | None
  • RES200 | Scientific Research Methods | 3 | MAT110
  • BUS220 | Nonprofit Resource Management | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • AST205 | Planetary Science and Astrobiology | 3 | AST101
  • COM240 | Multimedia Outreach Tools | 3 | COM120
  • PSY230 | Psychology of Learning and Discovery | 3 | None
  • THE250 | Ethics in Science and Stewardship | 3 | CHR105
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • AST301 | Observational Astronomy Workshop | 4 | AST201
  • EDU315 | Curriculum Design for Public Literacy | 3 | EDU210
  • MGT320 | Organizational Leadership and Culture | 3 | MIN101
  • HIS330 | History of Science and Public Perception | 3 | CHR105
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • AST350 | Cosmic Origins and Philosophy | 3 | AST201
  • COM360 | Technical Writing for Public Outreach | 3 | ENG101
  • SOC370 | Social Justice and Equitable Science | 3 | SOC150
  • BUS380 | Grant Writing and Fundraising | 3 | BUS220
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • AST401 | Current Research in Space Science | 3 | AST301
  • EDU410 | Internship in Outreach Settings | 4 | EDU315
  • MGT420 | Nonprofit Strategic Planning | 3 | MGT320
  • HUM430 | Cultural Impact of Science | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | EDU410, CAP permission
  • AST450 | Advanced Astrophysical Discourse | 3 | AST401
  • MGT460 | Professional Ethics and Vocational Development | 3 | THE250
  • BUS470 | Professional Ethics and Law | 3 | MGT320

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Science Museum Educator
  • Planetarium Outreach Coordinator
  • Nonprofit Educational Program Director
  • Community Science Communication Specialist
  • Faith-Based Youth Science Ministry Lead
  • Public Observatory Educational Consultant
  • Science Literacy Advocacy Liaison

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

Important Notices

  • The program educates ethical professionals who demonstrate technical excellence, servant leadership, professional integrity, and a commitment to apply sound principles to advance faith-based organizations, strengthen communities, and contribute responsibly.
  • HBIU is a lawfully operating nonpublic faith-based postsecondary institution that maintains its status under section 1005.06(1)(f), Florida Statutes. The University annually affirms its compliance with the requirements applicable to faith-based institutions in Florida through Commission for Independent Education.
  • HBIU accreditation from QAHE (for quality assurance in pre-tertiary and higher education mechanisms). QAHE offers globally recognized accreditation and quality assurance for higher education, training providers, and professional institutions worldwide. Students should consider the nature and scope of this recognition in relation to their individual certification and professional goals.
  • Transfer credit is evaluated individually based on course content, credit hours, grades, institutional documentation, program requirements, and applicable university policies. Although HBIU provides academically structured programs, no institution can guarantee that another college, university, employer, licensing board, or credential-evaluation service will accept its credits or credentials. Students are encouraged to obtain advance written confirmation from the intended receiving organization.
  • The program develops academic knowledge and applied competencies for service in faith-based organizations, nonprofit institutions, community programs, and related professional environments. Some occupations associated with the subject area may be regulated by governmental or professional authorities. A degree from HBIU demonstrates completion of the University's academic requirements but does not, by itself, confer professional licensure or legal authority to perform regulated services.
  • Where a program is related to an external certification, eligibility is determined exclusively by the applicable certifying organization. Certification bodies may establish additional requirements involving education, examinations, experience, background screening, continuing education, or membership. HBIU does not guarantee certification eligibility or examination approval unless a formal written agreement expressly provides otherwise.
  • Career and occupational information is provided to help students make informed educational decisions. Employment outcomes depend on factors such as the graduate's experience, geographic location, professional qualifications, employer requirements, economic conditions, interviewing ability, and any applicable licensure or certification requirements. Completion of a program does not constitute a promise of employment, promotion, job placement, or a particular occupational title.
  • This program is delivered through online instruction. Students must have access to the technology, equipment, internet service, software, and learning resources identified in the University's technology requirements.
  • Internship or field-experience participation is subject to academic eligibility, site availability, supervisor approval, and the requirements of the participating organization. The University assists students with the placement process but cannot guarantee placement with a particular organization, supervisor, location, or schedule.
  • Students are responsible for reviewing the catalog, understanding program requirements, providing accurate information, meeting academic and financial obligations, and verifying whether the program supports their intended educational or professional goals.
  • Completion of a University program does not authorize a graduate to use a professional title that is protected or restricted by law. Graduates must use titles that accurately reflect their education, credentials, employment role, and current licensure or certification status.
  • Degree abbreviation | B.A. in Faith-Based Astronomy, Space Education Public Outreach
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years