Bachelors of Arts in Faith-Based Elementary Education Specialization in Environmental/Outdoor Education

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Elementary Education Studies Specialization in Environmental/Outdoor Education

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

• Analyze foundational theories of human development to create developmentally appropriate instructional strategies for elementary learners.
• Design inclusive curriculum units that integrate core elementary content areas with environmental and outdoor experiential learning.
• Evaluate the impact of pedagogical decisions on student engagement, learning outcomes, and environmental awareness.
• Demonstrate proficiency in applying ethical reasoning and stewardship principles to educational design and classroom management.
• Communicate complex educational concepts effectively through various media to diverse audiences, including students, colleagues, and community stakeholders.
• Integrate a Christian worldview into educational practice to foster an environment of compassion, integrity, and servant leadership.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• ENG 101
• Academic Writing and Rhetoric
• 3
• None
• EDU 110
• Foundations of Education
• 3
• None
• BIO 105
• Environmental Science Essentials
• 4
• None
• THE 120
• Introduction to Christian Ethics
• 3
• None
• ENG 101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: Exploration of effective writing processes and rhetorical strategies for academic discourse. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical skills and clear, persuasive communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU 110 — Foundations of Education: An introduction to the historical, philosophical, and social foundations of American education. Students examine current trends and the educator's role in societyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• BIO 105 — Environmental Science Essentials: An overview of ecological principles and environmental issues. The course explores the intersection of human activity and natural systemsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• THE 120 — Introduction to Christian Ethics: Examines ethical decision-making frameworks within a Christian worldview. Focuses on social justice, stewardship, and personal integrityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MAT 150
• Mathematics for Educators
• 3
• None
• PSY 130
• Child Development
• 3
• None
• EDU 150
• Educational Technology and Media
• 3
• EDU 110
• COM 101
• Interpersonal Communication
• 3
• None
• MAT 150 — Mathematics for Educators: Review of foundational mathematical concepts necessary for elementary instruction. Emphasis on problem-solving, logical reasoning, and pedagogical deliveryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• PSY 130 — Child Development: Study of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development from birth to adolescence. Application to classroom management and instructional designThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU 150 — Educational Technology and Media: Examination of instructional technologies used to enhance student learning. Students design digital resources and learn best practices for digital literacyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM 101 — Interpersonal Communication: Introduction to effective communication strategies in personal and professional contexts. Focuses on active listening and conflict resolutionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• EDU 201
• Instructional Methods for Literacy
• 4
• EDU 110
• ENV 210
• Outdoor Education Theory
• 3
• BIO 105
• HIS 220
• World History and Geography
• 3
• None
• MIN 200
• Leadership and Service
• 3
• THE 120
• EDU 201 — Instructional Methods for Literacy: Comprehensive exploration of research-based literacy development and pedagogy. Focuses on reading acquisition and writing across the elementary curriculumThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• ENV 210 — Outdoor Education Theory: Explores the pedagogical history and theoretical frameworks of outdoor and experiential learning. Addresses the psychological and social benefits of nature-based schoolingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• HIS 220 — World History and Geography: Analysis of key historical events and geographical influences on civilization. Focuses on thematic instruction for elementary levelsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MIN 200 — Leadership and Service: Examines models of servant leadership in professional and ministry contexts. Encourages active engagement in community developmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• EDU 250
• Curriculum Development
• 3
• EDU 201
• ENV 250
• Environmental Field Studies
• 3
• ENV 210
• SOC 230
• Sociology of the Family and Community
• 3
• PSY 130
• EDU 280
• Diverse Learners and Inclusion
• 3
• EDU 110
• EDU 250 — Curriculum Development: Principles of designing, aligning, and evaluating curricula for diverse learners. Students learn to map educational objectives to national and state standardsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• ENV 250 — Environmental Field Studies: Direct engagement with local ecosystems. Students learn observation and classification techniques suitable for elementary field trips and outdoor explorationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC 230 — Sociology of the Family and Community: Analyzes the impact of social institutions on child development and academic success. Focuses on fostering partnerships between schools and familiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU 280 — Diverse Learners and Inclusion: Covers strategies for supporting students with diverse learning needs in inclusive settings. Emphasizes differentiation and accommodationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• EDU 310
• Science Education Methods
• 4
• EDU 250
• ENV 320
• Ecology of Local Ecosystems
• 3
• ENV 250
• COU 300
• Educational Psychology
• 3
• PSY 130
• HUM 350
• Humanities and the Arts
• 3
• None
• EDU 310 — Science Education Methods: Pedagogical approaches to teaching elementary science. Focuses on inquiry-based learning and the scientific methodThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• ENV 320 — Ecology of Local Ecosystems: Detailed study of regional biology and geography. Emphasizes the role of ecosystems in maintaining environmental health and stabilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU 300 — Educational Psychology: Investigates the psychological principles underlying effective teaching and learning. Focuses on memory, motivation, and cognitive engagementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• HUM 350 — Humanities and the Arts: Exploration of the role of the arts in cultural development and human expression. Includes strategies for integrating arts into primary educationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• EDU 360
• Classroom Management Strategies
• 3
• EDU 250
• ENV 380
• Sustainability and Resource Management
• 3
• ENV 320
• RES 390
• Research Methods in Education
• 3
• MAT 150
• EDU 395
• Professionalism and Ethics in Education
• 3
• MIN 200
• EDU 360 — Classroom Management Strategies: Examination of proactive classroom management theories and restorative practices. Emphasizes creating a positive learning communityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• ENV 380 — Sustainability and Resource Management: Explores the ethics and mechanics of sustainable resource management. Connects global sustainability trends to classroom-level educational activitiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES 390 — Research Methods in Education: Introduction to quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Students prepare for their senior capstone by developing a research proposalThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU 395 — Professionalism and Ethics in Education: Addresses the professional responsibilities of the educator, including legal, ethical, and collaborative expectations within the school environmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 7 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• EDU 410
• Assessment and Evaluation
• 3
• EDU 310
• ENV 420
• Advocacy and Environmental Policy
• 3
• ENV 380
• EDU 450
• Integrated Curriculum Design
• 4
• EDU 250
• CHR 400
• Integration of Faith and Vocation
• 3
• MIN 200
• EDU 410 — Assessment and Evaluation: Exploration of diagnostic, formative, and summative assessment tools. Focuses on data-driven decision making and reporting student progressThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• ENV 420 — Advocacy and Environmental Policy: Examination of policy, advocacy, and community-level environmental initiatives. Focuses on the teacher's role in promoting environmental literacyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU 450 — Integrated Curriculum Design: Synthesis of academic domains into multidisciplinary units. Emphasis on project-based learning and inquiry-based pedagogyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• CHR 400 — Integration of Faith and Vocation: Reflective course bridging professional vocational identity with spiritual formation. Addresses issues of personal calling and long-term serviceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 8 — Year 4
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP 499
• Senior Capstone Project
• 6
• RES 390
• EDU 480
• Practicum and Seminar
• 3
• EDU 360
• EDU 490
• Instructional Leadership
• 3
• EDU 395
• CAP 499 — Senior Capstone Project: A comprehensive, final project requiring the integration of educational research, outdoor education specialization, and spiritual reflection. Students produce a portfolio and an actionable curriculum unit demonstrating professional and ethical synthesisThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU 480 — Practicum and Seminar: Supervised experience in an educational setting combined with a weekly seminar. Focuses on applying theoretical knowledge in a real-world classroom contextThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU 490 — Instructional Leadership: Final exploration of leadership styles and the ability to influence positive change within a learning environment. Emphasizes mentoring and collaborationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Admissions committees review academic transcripts, evidence of foundational writing skills, and a personal statement outlining the applicant's commitment to community engagement and academic inquiry. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from all prior postsecondary institutions for evaluation, ensuring that at least 25% of the total program credits are completed through HBI University. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience, requiring students to synthesize their pedagogical, ecological, and ethical studies into a comprehensive professional portfolio and research project. Students will design a semester-long outdoor education curriculum module that addresses specific learning standards while demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and servant leadership. The project requires the submission of a formal research paper and a practical demonstration of instructional planning, reflecting the student's ability to bridge theory and practice. Beyond academic proficiency, the capstone integrates the student's faith-based identity by requiring a reflective analysis on the intersection of Christian character and professional ethical integrity. Students must articulate how their work promotes the common good, reflects a biblical view of creation care, and serves the needs of their future students and community. The final deliverable serves as both an assessment of academic readiness and a testament to the student's ongoing spiritual and professional formation.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0. All students must complete the foundational curriculum, specialization courses, and the Senior Capstone Project with a passing grade. Mastery is determined through the cumulative demonstration of academic competence in core educational domains, ensuring readiness for responsible professional practice.
• In addition to academic achievement, HBI University requires evidence of spiritual maturity and ethical development, including participation in communal worship and verified hours of service learning. Graduates are expected to demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning, integrity in their personal and professional lives, and an active pursuit of service that reflects the values of the institution. Completion of these requirements ensures that the graduate is prepared to contribute effectively to both their profession and the wider community with purpose and conviction.
• Career Opportunities
• Elementary Classroom Educator
• Outdoor Education Program Coordinator
• Environmental Science Curriculum Specialist
• Nature-Based Preschool Facilitator
• Educational Outreach Director for Nonprofits
• Museum or Botanical Garden Educational Staff
• Camp Program Director
• Community Service Coordinator
• 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 Elementary Education Studies Specialization in Environmental/Outdoor Education
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four academic years
• General education | 36 credit hours
• Educational theory and practice 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 | 3 | None
• EDU 110 | Foundations of Education | 3 | None
• BIO 105 | Environmental Science Essentials | 4 | None
• THE 120 | Introduction to Christian Ethics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MAT 150 | Mathematics for Educators | 3 | None
• PSY 130 | Child Development | 3 | None
• EDU 150 | Educational Technology and Media | 3 | EDU 110
• COM 101 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• EDU 201 | Instructional Methods for Literacy | 4 | EDU 110
• ENV 210 | Outdoor Education Theory | 3 | BIO 105
• HIS 220 | World History and Geography | 3 | None
• MIN 200 | Leadership and Service | 3 | THE 120
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• EDU 250 | Curriculum Development | 3 | EDU 201
• ENV 250 | Environmental Field Studies | 3 | ENV 210
• SOC 230 | Sociology of the Family and Community | 3 | PSY 130
• EDU 280 | Diverse Learners and Inclusion | 3 | EDU 110
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• EDU 310 | Science Education Methods | 4 | EDU 250
• ENV 320 | Ecology of Local Ecosystems | 3 | ENV 250
• COU 300 | Educational Psychology | 3 | PSY 130
• HUM 350 | Humanities and the Arts | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• EDU 360 | Classroom Management Strategies | 3 | EDU 250
• ENV 380 | Sustainability and Resource Management | 3 | ENV 320
• RES 390 | Research Methods in Education | 3 | MAT 150
• EDU 395 | Professionalism and Ethics in Education | 3 | MIN 200
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• EDU 410 | Assessment and Evaluation | 3 | EDU 310
• ENV 420 | Advocacy and Environmental Policy | 3 | ENV 380
• EDU 450 | Integrated Curriculum Design | 4 | EDU 250
• CHR 400 | Integration of Faith and Vocation | 3 | MIN 200
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP 499 | Senior Capstone Project | 6 | RES 390
• EDU 480 | Practicum and Seminar | 3 | EDU 360
• EDU 490 | Instructional Leadership | 3 | EDU 395