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Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Artificial Intelligence, Specialization in Ethics AI for Social Media Use

Academic unitHBIU College of Computer ScienceTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.S. in Faith-Based Artificial Intelligence

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-based artificial intelligence core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Artificial Intelligence with a specialization in Ethics for Social Media Use is an interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the technical proficiency in machine learning and data science alongside a rigorous foundation in ethical philosophy. Students examine the intersection of algorithmic processes and human behavior within digital environments, focusing on how automated systems influence social discourse, community building, and individual well-being. This program emphasizes the critical evaluation of emergent technologies through a framework of stewardship and servant leadership. By bridging technical capability with moral inquiry, the curriculum prepares students to address the complex challenges posed by large-scale digital interactions. Graduates are expected to lead with character, ensuring that artificial intelligence systems are deployed in ways that honor the dignity of the person and promote the common good.

The Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Artificial Intelligence, Specialization in Ethics AI for Social Media Use, combines rigorous general education with a comprehensive study of artificial intelligence theory, behavioral science, human development, ethical frameworks, research methodology, crisis awareness, referral protocols, program development, and community-based support systems.

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 Artificial Intelligence
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

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the technical architecture of artificial intelligence systems and their impacts on social media engagement patterns.
  • Apply ethical frameworks to evaluate the implications of data-driven algorithmic decision-making on public discourse.
  • Design inclusive and transparent artificial intelligence models that mitigate bias and promote responsible data stewardship.
  • Evaluate the socio-technical consequences of digital platform structures on individual spiritual and moral formation.
  • Demonstrate servant leadership by developing technology solutions that prioritize human dignity and community well-being.
  • Integrate Christian worldview principles into the critical assessment of technological advancements in global communication.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MAT101
  • Discrete Mathematics for Computing
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101
  • Academic Composition and Research
  • 3
  • None
  • PHI110
  • Introduction to Moral Philosophy
  • 3
  • None
  • CS105
  • Introduction to Programming
  • 4
  • None
  • MAT101 — Discrete Mathematics for Computing: Introduction to logic, set theory, and mathematical structures fundamental to computer science. Focuses on proof techniques and computational reasoningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG101 — Academic Composition and Research: Development of essential writing and research skills for academic settings. Emphasizes critical analysis and the synthesis of credible sourcesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PHI110 — Introduction to Moral Philosophy: This course examines fundamental theories of normative ethics, including utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, within the context of modern societal challenges. Students apply these frameworks to evaluate decision-making processes in professional and personal environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CS105 — Introduction to Programming: Fundamentals of algorithmic programming using modern industry languages. Emphasis is placed on code structure and clean programming practicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CS110
  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • 4
  • CS105
  • SOC120
  • Sociology of Technology
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT150
  • Introduction to Statistics
  • 3
  • MAT101
  • HUM105
  • Western Intellectual History
  • 3
  • None
  • CS110 — Data Structures and Algorithms: Study of fundamental data structures and efficient algorithmic approaches. Focuses on problem-solving strategies in a computational contextThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC120 — Sociology of Technology: Examination of how digital communication impacts social structures and communities. Includes a critical look at technology's role in human isolation and connectionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MAT150 — Introduction to Statistics: Covers probability, data distribution, and inferential statistics. Essential for understanding data-driven decision-making in AIThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HUM105 — Western Intellectual History: Survey of the philosophical and historical ideas that shaped contemporary society. Provides context for the development of modern technologyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CS201
  • Machine Learning Fundamentals
  • 4
  • CS110, MAT150
  • COM210
  • Communication and Digital Media
  • 3
  • ENG101
  • CHR205
  • Stewardship and Technology
  • 3
  • THE110
  • BUS220
  • Organizational Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • CS201 — Machine Learning Fundamentals: Introduction to supervised and unsupervised learning models. Practical implementation of predictive systems using industry-standard librariesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM210 — Communication and Digital Media: Analyzing communication theories in the age of digital platforms. Focuses on the role of social media in public perceptionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR205 — Stewardship and Technology: Applying principles of stewardship to digital resources and information. Examines the responsibility of digital citizensThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS220 — Organizational Leadership: Exploration of leadership styles and the importance of servant leadership in technical teams. Emphasizes character and collaborationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CS225
  • Natural Language Processing
  • 4
  • CS201
  • PSY230
  • Psychology of Digital Behavior
  • 3
  • None
  • PHI240
  • Professional Ethics and AI
  • 3
  • THE110
  • HIS250
  • History of Computing and Innovation
  • 3
  • None
  • CS225 — Natural Language Processing: Techniques for processing text data, including sentiment analysis and language modeling. Discusses the ethical challenges of automated language generationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY230 — Psychology of Digital Behavior: Study of cognitive and behavioral impacts of social media usage. Examines patterns of engagement and digital influenceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PHI240 — Professional Ethics and AI: Rigorous analysis of ethical theories applied to automated systems. Focuses on accountability, justice, and the common goodThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS250 — History of Computing and Innovation: A survey of technical breakthroughs and their social impact over the last century. Highlights the moral challenges faced by past innovatorsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CS310
  • Database Management and Systems
  • 3
  • CS110
  • CS330
  • AI Ethics in Social Media
  • 4
  • CS201, PHI240
  • RES300
  • Research Methods
  • 3
  • MAT150
  • MGT320
  • Project Management
  • 3
  • BUS220
  • CS310 — Database Management and Systems: Theory and practice of database systems including SQL, schema design, and data security. Emphasizes data privacy as a form of stewardshipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CS330 — AI Ethics in Social Media: Advanced exploration of algorithmic bias, echo chambers, and user manipulation. Focuses on designing platforms that respect user agencyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES300 — Research Methods: Introduction to quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Prepares students for the senior capstone projectThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MGT320 — Project Management: Managing technical projects through the full lifecycle. Emphasis on team accountability and ethical project governanceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CS350
  • Web Architecture and Security
  • 4
  • CS310
  • COM360
  • Public Policy and Emerging Tech
  • 3
  • COM210
  • SOC340
  • Sociocultural Analysis of Contemporary Media
  • 3
  • THE110
  • EDU350
  • Instructional Design for Digital Spaces
  • 3
  • None
  • CS350 — Web Architecture and Security: Design and security of web applications. Focuses on building robust, secure environments that protect community dataThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM360 — Public Policy and Emerging Tech: Examining the intersection of technology policy and civil discourse. Explores how law and ethics shape the digital futureThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC340 — Sociocultural Analysis of Contemporary Media: This course explores the relationship between digital media environments and cultural shifts, focusing on identity formation, social stratification, and collective behavior. Students analyze how media structures influence societal norms and human interaction patterns. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU350 — Instructional Design for Digital Spaces: Principles for designing digital learning and interaction spaces. Encourages accessibility and community connectionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CS410
  • Advanced Algorithmic Design
  • 4
  • CS225
  • SOC405
  • Community Engagement in Digital Societies
  • 3
  • SOC120
  • CS420
  • Data Ethics and Privacy Regulation
  • 3
  • CS310, PHI240
  • CAP490
  • Senior Capstone Preparation
  • 3
  • RES300
  • CS410 — Advanced Algorithmic Design: Focuses on building complex models with a priority on transparency and explainability. Requires advanced programming and statistical analysisThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC405 — Community Engagement in Digital Societies: Strategies for building healthy online communities. Emphasizes the role of empathy and dialogue in digital spacesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CS420 — Data Ethics and Privacy Regulation: Comprehensive review of global data privacy laws and the ethical responsibility of data handling. Focuses on protecting the individualThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Preparation: Proposal development and preliminary research for the capstone project. Includes mentorship and design review sessionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CS450
  • Emerging Technologies and Future Trends
  • 3
  • CS410
  • MIN400
  • Leadership and Ethical Service
  • 3
  • BUS220, THE110
  • CS480
  • Technical Innovation Seminar
  • 3
  • Senior Status
  • CAP499
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 4
  • CAP490
  • CS450 — Emerging Technologies and Future Trends: Critical survey of next-generation technologies. Examines their potential to enhance or degrade social cohesionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN400 — Leadership and Ethical Service: Final synthesis of leadership philosophy and ethical service. Examines the integration of professional work as an act of serviceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CS480 — Technical Innovation Seminar: Seminar on current industry best practices, collaboration tools, and professional conduct in the technology sectorThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CAP499 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project where students design, implement, and document a faith-informed AI solution for social media. Requires formal presentation and ethical reviewThis 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 its equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. The application process requires the submission of official transcripts, a statement of intent detailing the student's interest in the intersection of technology and ethics, and two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references. Standardized test scores may be submitted but are not strictly required for holistic consideration of an applicant’s academic readiness and character potential. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Science in Faith-Based Artificial Intelligence, requiring students to integrate their technical expertise, ethical training, and character development into a comprehensive project. Spanning the final semester and carrying 4 credit hours, this project requires students to address a real-world dilemma in social media algorithm design, applying principles of stewardship, truth-telling, and service to their proposed solution. Students must deliver a technical design proposal accompanied by a formal ethical impact assessment. This project necessitates that students demonstrate their ability to navigate the complexities of modern digital architecture while maintaining a commitment to professional integrity and public responsibility. By engaging in this scholarly inquiry, students articulate how their work reflects their identity as ethical agents, effectively bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, faith-informed service to the community. The project serves as an evidence of both academic mastery in AI and the maturation of a servant leader ready to engage the digital world with wisdom and humility.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of all 120 credit hours within the program curriculum, maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. In addition to technical academic requirements, students must satisfy the institution's spiritual formation mandates, which include participation in a designated number of chapel services and completion of foundational theology coursework. These requirements ensure that graduates demonstrate not only technical competence but also a commitment to lifelong moral growth and spiritual vitality. Students are evaluated on their ability to integrate ethical reflection into their technical projects, ensuring they are prepared for professional practice that aligns with their personal values and commitment to the common good. Final approval for graduation is contingent upon the successful defense of the Senior Capstone Project and an endorsement of the student’s readiness for responsible, faith-informed contributions to their field.
  • Career Opportunities
  • AI Ethics Consultant for Social Media Platforms
  • Digital Content Policy Analyst
  • Community Integrity Architect
  • Algorithmic Transparency Researcher
  • Non-Profit Technology Strategist
  • Corporate Social Responsibility Officer in Tech
  • Digital Communications 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 Artificial Intelligence
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-based artificial intelligence core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MAT101 | Discrete Mathematics for Computing | 3 | None
  • ENG101 | Academic Composition and Research | 3 | None
  • PHI110 | Introduction to Moral Philosophy | 3 | None
  • CS105 | Introduction to Programming | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CS110 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 4 | CS105
  • SOC120 | Sociology of Technology | 3 | None
  • MAT150 | Introduction to Statistics | 3 | MAT101
  • HUM105 | Western Intellectual History | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CS201 | Machine Learning Fundamentals | 4 | CS110, MAT150
  • COM210 | Communication and Digital Media | 3 | ENG101
  • CHR205 | Stewardship and Technology | 3 | THE110
  • BUS220 | Organizational Leadership | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CS225 | Natural Language Processing | 4 | CS201
  • PSY230 | Psychology of Digital Behavior | 3 | None
  • PHI240 | Professional Ethics and AI | 3 | THE110
  • HIS250 | History of Computing and Innovation | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CS310 | Database Management and Systems | 3 | CS110
  • CS330 | AI Ethics in Social Media | 4 | CS201, PHI240
  • RES300 | Research Methods | 3 | MAT150
  • MGT320 | Project Management | 3 | BUS220
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CS350 | Web Architecture and Security | 4 | CS310
  • COM360 | Public Policy and Emerging Tech | 3 | COM210
  • SOC340 | Sociocultural Analysis of Contemporary Media | 3 | THE110
  • EDU350 | Instructional Design for Digital Spaces | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CS410 | Advanced Algorithmic Design | 4 | CS225
  • SOC405 | Community Engagement in Digital Societies | 3 | SOC120
  • CS420 | Data Ethics and Privacy Regulation | 3 | CS310, PHI240
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Preparation | 3 | RES300
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CS450 | Emerging Technologies and Future Trends | 3 | CS410
  • MIN400 | Leadership and Ethical Service | 3 | BUS220, THE110
  • CS480 | Technical Innovation Seminar | 3 | Senior Status
  • CAP499 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | CAP490

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • AI Ethics Consultant for Social Media Platforms
  • Digital Content Policy Analyst
  • Community Integrity Architect
  • Algorithmic Transparency Researcher
  • Non-Profit Technology Strategist
  • Corporate Social Responsibility Officer in Tech
  • Digital Communications 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 Artificial Intelligence
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years