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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy

Academic unitHBIU College of Performing ArtsTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Dance and movement therapy core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Dance with a specialization in Movement Therapy provides a rigorous curriculum that integrates the physiological and expressive study of dance with psychological foundations of human wellness. Students engage in academic inquiry regarding kinesthetic development, choreographic design, and the intersection of movement with community health. The program is situated within a holistic framework, emphasizing the intersection of artistic discipline and the stewardship of the physical form for the betterment of others. By combining movement theory with ethical servant leadership, the program fosters a scholarly environment where students explore how dance functions as a vehicle for empathy, connection, and restorative practice. The curriculum requires critical analysis of historical and cultural perspectives, ensuring that graduates possess the foundational knowledge necessary for advanced study or diverse service roles. Through a balanced approach of studio work, research, and theoretical exploration, students develop an informed perspective on how intentional movement can serve community needs and support social flourishing within various institutional environments.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy combines foundational general education with a comprehensive study in dance theory, behavioral science, human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, referral, program development, and community-based support. The curriculum integrates artistic expression with theological principles to prepare students for diverse ministerial and community settings.

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 Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy
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 Performing Arts
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the biomechanical and physiological foundations of human movement in diverse populations.
  • Evaluate the role of dance as a tool for personal expression and community engagement within an ethical framework.
  • Apply choreographic and somatic principles to design inclusive movement-based activities.
  • Integrate psychological theories of human development with somatic practices to support mental and physical health.
  • Communicate complex movement theories through academic writing and professional presentations.
  • Demonstrate servant leadership by facilitating community programs that utilize movement for social development.
  • Develop a personal philosophy of stewardship regarding the human body as a resource for creative and communal service.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DAN101
  • Introduction to Dance Technique
  • 4
  • None
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Research
  • 3
  • None
  • PHI101
  • Foundations of Philosophical Inquiry
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY101
  • General Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • DAN101 — Introduction to Dance Technique: This course covers foundational movement terminology and technical execution. Students analyze basic kinesthetic principles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Research: Focuses on scholarly writing techniques and bibliographic research methods. Students develop analytical communication skills. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PHI101 — Foundations of Philosophical Inquiry: This course examines the fundamental frameworks of logic, metaphysics, and epistemology as they relate to human values and belief systems. It explores the history of intellectual thought and its impact on modern institutional perspectives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY101 — General Psychology: An overview of human behavior, cognitive processes, and development. Emphasis on the individual within society. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DAN102
  • Dance History and Culture
  • 3
  • DAN101
  • BIO150
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • 4
  • None
  • SOC101
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • COM101
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • DAN102 — Dance History and Culture: Examines the evolution of dance across historical periods and cultures. Evaluates dance as a reflective cultural practice. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BIO150 — Human Anatomy and Physiology: A study of body systems with a specific focus on the musculoskeletal structure. Necessary for understanding movement safety. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC101 — Introduction to Sociology: Analyzes social structures and group behavior. Focuses on social responsibility and community impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM101 — Interpersonal Communication: Explores effective dialogue strategies and relational intelligence. Emphasizes empathetic and professional interaction. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DAN201
  • Movement Analysis and Notation
  • 3
  • DAN101
  • PSY205
  • Developmental Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY101
  • MGT210
  • Nonprofit Management Principles
  • 3
  • None
  • HUM201
  • Ethics and Values
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • DAN201 — Movement Analysis and Notation: Introduces systematic methods for observing and documenting human movement. Develops descriptive and analytical skills. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY205 — Developmental Psychology: Examines human growth and development across the lifespan. Highlights psychological needs in different age groups. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT210 — Nonprofit Management Principles: Introduces the operational aspects of nonprofit organizations. Covers stewardship, fundraising, and mission-focused leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM201 — Ethics and Values: A study of ethical reasoning and moral framework development. Critically assesses professional conduct. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DAN250
  • Foundations of Movement Therapy
  • 4
  • DAN201, PSY205
  • EDU201
  • Principles of Instruction
  • 3
  • None
  • RES250
  • Research Methods in Social Sciences
  • 3
  • MAT101, ENG101
  • MIN210
  • Servant Leadership in Practice
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • DAN250 — Foundations of Movement Therapy: Introduces the theoretical framework of movement therapy. Focuses on the relationship between physical action and mental wellness. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • EDU201 — Principles of Instruction: Explores strategies for effective facilitation and education. Covers lesson planning and participant engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES250 — Research Methods in Social Sciences: Teaches quantitative and qualitative data analysis. Focuses on evidence-based practice and program evaluation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MIN210 — Servant Leadership in Practice: Explores leadership models grounded in service and humility. Analyzes the role of the leader in community organizations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DAN301
  • Choreographic Design for Community
  • 3
  • DAN201
  • PSY310
  • Abnormal Psychology
  • 3
  • PSY101
  • COU305
  • Counseling Theory and Helping Skills
  • 3
  • PSY101
  • DAN315
  • Somatic Movement Practices
  • 3
  • BIO150, DAN250
  • DAN301 — Choreographic Design for Community: Advanced course in creating movement compositions for diverse audiences. Focuses on accessibility and inclusive design. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY310 — Abnormal Psychology: Examines the classification and etiology of mental health challenges. Focuses on supportive, non-clinical approaches. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COU305 — Counseling Theory and Helping Skills: Introduces core communication strategies for supportive relationships. Emphasizes active listening and validation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • DAN315 — Somatic Movement Practices: Investigates the intersection of conscious awareness and physical embodiment. Promotes stress reduction and bodily stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DAN350
  • Group Dynamics in Movement
  • 3
  • SOC101, DAN250
  • BUS320
  • Nonprofit Resource Development
  • 3
  • MGT210
  • PSY350
  • Psychology of Resilience
  • 3
  • PSY205
  • DAN390
  • Advanced Movement Practicum
  • 4
  • DAN301, DAN350
  • DAN350 — Group Dynamics in Movement: Explores the social and psychological aspects of group movement activity. Discusses facilitation techniques for diverse groups. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS320 — Nonprofit Resource Development: Covers financial stewardship, grant writing, and community partnerships. Essential for sustainable nonprofit impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY350 — Psychology of Resilience: Analyzes internal and external factors that support personal endurance. Focuses on fostering well-being through activity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • DAN390 — Advanced Movement Practicum: Supervised fieldwork experience in a community setting. Students apply theoretical training to real-world scenarios. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DAN401
  • Integration of Movement and Mentorship
  • 3
  • COU305, DAN390
  • SOC405
  • Sociology of Community Engagement
  • 3
  • CHR101
  • DAN410
  • Specialized Populations in Movement
  • 3
  • DAN250
  • ELECTIVE400
  • Contemporary Issues in Nonprofit Care
  • 3
  • None
  • DAN401 — Integration of Movement and Mentorship: Focuses on the use of physical movement as a medium for mentorship. Examines the impact of presence and modeling. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC405 — Sociology of Community Engagement: This course analyzes the structural dynamics of community service organizations and the role of leadership in fostering organizational identity. Students will examine strategies for effective interpersonal influence and the development of ethical outreach programs within diverse populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • DAN410 — Specialized Populations in Movement: Adapts movement activities for specific demographics such as youth or seniors. Ensures inclusive access to programs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ELECTIVE400 — Contemporary Issues in Nonprofit Care: Discusses emerging trends and challenges within the nonprofit service sector. Encourages innovative problem-solving. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP499
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 4
  • Senior standing
  • DAN450
  • Professionalism in the Arts
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC420
  • Community Outreach Strategy
  • 3
  • SOC101
  • ELECTIVE405
  • Seminar in Wellness and Stewardship
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP499 — Senior Capstone Project: The culminating project where students design and execute a comprehensive movement program for a community setting. Integrates faith-informed research with practical implementation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • DAN450 — Professionalism in the Arts: Prepares students for professional environments. Covers networking, ethical conduct, and organizational management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC420 — Community Outreach Strategy: Develops strategies for identifying community needs and fostering engagement. Focuses on collaborative organizational efforts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ELECTIVE405 — Seminar in Wellness and Stewardship: Refines the philosophy of health and resource management. Applies holistic stewardship principles to wellness programming. 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 equivalent with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Prospective students are required to submit official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining their commitment to ethical service, and a portfolio or audition demonstrating foundational movement skills. Admittance is determined by an evaluation of academic potential, evidence of character development, and readiness for professional training in a faith-informed academic environment. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Dance, representing the integration of theoretical knowledge, artistic competence, and faith-informed character development. This project, carrying 4 credits, requires students to design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive movement program tailored to a specific community need. Students are expected to demonstrate advanced analytical skills and a capacity for biblical stewardship by addressing how their work serves the common good and reflects a commitment to the dignity of the individual. The scope of the project includes a formal research paper and a physical movement demonstration or practical implementation plan. Through this endeavor, students synthesize their spiritual formation and academic training, demonstrating the application of ethical reasoning and servant leadership. The final deliverable must reflect professional standards of excellence and an understanding of how one's professional work contributes to the holistic development of community members within a faith-based nonprofit context. This project prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

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 and a passing grade in the Senior Capstone Project. Students must satisfy all core curriculum requirements, specialization-specific coursework, and maintain professional conduct aligned with the university's standards for integrity and community service. Beyond academic performance, students must fulfill requirements related to spiritual formation, including designated community service hours and consistent participation in the institutional community life program, which fosters leadership and spiritual maturity. The program ensures that graduates are prepared not only through technical excellence but through the cultivation of a servant-hearted disposition, ensuring readiness to serve in diverse community contexts with ethical competence and dedication to the common good.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Community Arts Coordinator
  • Dance Ministry Director
  • Wellness Program Developer
  • Nonprofit Outreach Coordinator
  • Recreational Movement Specialist
  • Youth Program Facilitator
  • Christian Education Specialist in the Arts
  • 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 Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Dance and movement therapy core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DAN101 | Introduction to Dance Technique | 4 | None
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Research | 3 | None
  • PHI101 | Foundations of Philosophical Inquiry | 3 | None
  • PSY101 | General Psychology | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DAN102 | Dance History and Culture | 3 | DAN101
  • BIO150 | Human Anatomy and Physiology | 4 | None
  • SOC101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • COM101 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DAN201 | Movement Analysis and Notation | 3 | DAN101
  • PSY205 | Developmental Psychology | 3 | PSY101
  • MGT210 | Nonprofit Management Principles | 3 | None
  • HUM201 | Ethics and Values | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DAN250 | Foundations of Movement Therapy | 4 | DAN201, PSY205
  • EDU201 | Principles of Instruction | 3 | None
  • RES250 | Research Methods in Social Sciences | 3 | MAT101, ENG101
  • MIN210 | Servant Leadership in Practice | 3 | CHR101
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DAN301 | Choreographic Design for Community | 3 | DAN201
  • PSY310 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 | PSY101
  • COU305 | Counseling Theory and Helping Skills | 3 | PSY101
  • DAN315 | Somatic Movement Practices | 3 | BIO150, DAN250
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DAN350 | Group Dynamics in Movement | 3 | SOC101, DAN250
  • BUS320 | Nonprofit Resource Development | 3 | MGT210
  • PSY350 | Psychology of Resilience | 3 | PSY205
  • DAN390 | Advanced Movement Practicum | 4 | DAN301, DAN350
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DAN401 | Integration of Movement and Mentorship | 3 | COU305, DAN390
  • SOC405 | Sociology of Community Engagement | 3 | CHR101
  • DAN410 | Specialized Populations in Movement | 3 | DAN250
  • ELECTIVE400 | Contemporary Issues in Nonprofit Care | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP499 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | Senior standing
  • DAN450 | Professionalism in the Arts | 3 | None
  • SOC420 | Community Outreach Strategy | 3 | SOC101
  • ELECTIVE405 | Seminar in Wellness and Stewardship | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Community Arts Coordinator
  • Dance Ministry Director
  • Wellness Program Developer
  • Nonprofit Outreach Coordinator
  • Recreational Movement Specialist
  • Youth Program Facilitator
  • Christian Education Specialist in the Arts

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 Dance, Specialization in Movement Therapy
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years