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Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Music Sound Design, Audio Technology

Academic unitHBIU College of Arts and HumanitiesTotal credits120Estimated duration4 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

B.A. in Faith-Based Music Sound Design, Audio Technology

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four academic years

General education

36 credit hours

Faith-Based Music Sound Design, Audio Technology core

63 credit hours

Professional application courses

15 credit hours

Capstone requirement

6 credit hours

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Music Sound Design and Audio Technology offers a comprehensive study of audio engineering, acoustic design, and creative production within the context of ethical professional practice. Students engage with both the technical rigors of digital signal processing and the aesthetic principles of soundscape construction, preparing them to serve in diverse liturgical and creative environments. The curriculum emphasizes stewardship of technology and the pursuit of excellence as a form of service to the community and the broader arts industry. Through a synthesis of technical proficiency and humanistic inquiry, students learn to curate audio experiences that reflect integrity, artistic intentionality, and cultural engagement. This program prepares graduates to navigate the modern audio landscape with a commitment to the highest professional standards and a clear sense of their vocation as creative practitioners.

The Bachelor of Arts in Faith-Based Music Sound Design, Audio Technology combines a robust general education foundation with comprehensive study in the theory of audio engineering, acoustics, and sound design. The program integrates these technical disciplines with coursework in human development, ethics, research, crisis awareness, theological perspectives, project management, and community-based support structures for creative ministry and media initiatives.

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 Music Sound Design, Audio Technology
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 Arts and Humanities
Total credits
120
Duration
4 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze complex acoustic environments to design effective audio systems for diverse venues.
  • Apply advanced digital audio workstation techniques to professional-grade recording, mixing, and mastering projects.
  • Evaluate the intersection of aesthetic expression and ethical responsibility within professional media production.
  • Integrate principles of stewardship into the management of technical infrastructure and audio assets.
  • Design and execute a multifaceted audio project that demonstrates both technical competence and alignment with institutional mission.
  • Communicate complex technical concepts effectively to clients, collaborators, and stakeholders in various production settings.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG101
  • Academic Writing and Rhetoric
  • 3
  • None
  • MUS105
  • Introduction to Audio Technology
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC110
  • Sociology of Cultural Values
  • 3
  • None
  • HUM102
  • History of the Arts
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101 — Academic Writing and Rhetoric: Focuses on the development of clear, persuasive writing for professional and academic contexts. Students examine effective communication strategies through rigorous peer review and draftingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS105 — Introduction to Audio Technology: Provides a foundation in the physics of sound and the history of audio recording hardware. Students learn basic signal flow and studio operation proceduresThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC110 — Sociology of Cultural Values: This course explores the sociological frameworks through which individuals and communities construct meaning and interpret social reality. Students will examine how diverse value systems influence institutional decision-making and community development strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM102 — History of the Arts: Surveys the development of Western art and music through history. Examines the cultural impacts of aesthetic movementsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MAT120
  • Mathematics for Sound Engineering
  • 3
  • None
  • MUS115
  • Digital Audio Workstation Fundamentals
  • 3
  • MUS105
  • COM101
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • PSY101
  • General Psychology
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT120 — Mathematics for Sound Engineering: Applies algebraic and logarithmic principles to the study of audio gain, frequency, and signal power. Emphasizes problem-solving in technical scenariosThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS115 — Digital Audio Workstation Fundamentals: Introduction to industry-standard DAW software. Covers file management, project organization, and basic track editing techniquesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM101 — Interpersonal Communication: Analyzes the mechanics of effective verbal and non-verbal communication. Focuses on building professional relationships through empathy and clarityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • PSY101 — General Psychology: An introduction to the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Explores developmental and social perspectives on personalityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MUS201
  • Acoustics and Psychoacoustics
  • 4
  • MUS115
  • ENG205
  • Professional Communication
  • 3
  • ENG101
  • HIS210
  • Ethics in Contemporary Society
  • 3
  • None
  • MUS220
  • Microphone Technique and Placement
  • 3
  • MUS115
  • MUS201 — Acoustics and Psychoacoustics: Examines the science of sound propagation and the psychology of auditory perception. Includes experimental laboratory components for measuring room responseThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG205 — Professional Communication: Develops writing skills for technical reports, industry proposals, and project documentation. Focuses on clarity, structure, and professional toneThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS210 — Ethics in Contemporary Society: Explores major ethical theories and their application to modern professional dilemmas. Evaluates decision-making through the lens of community responsibilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS220 — Microphone Technique and Placement: Study of various transducer designs and their application in diverse recording environments. Focuses on practical capture strategies for instruments and voicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MUS250
  • Signal Processing and Effects
  • 3
  • MUS220
  • BUS200
  • Business Practices for Freelancers
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC215
  • Community Engagement and Service
  • 3
  • None
  • MIN220
  • Servant Leadership in Arts
  • 3
  • CHR110
  • MUS250 — Signal Processing and Effects: Theoretical and practical study of dynamic range control, equalization, and time-based effects. Students analyze the impact of processing on sound qualityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS200 — Business Practices for Freelancers: Covers legal and financial basics for independent media producers. Includes contract negotiation, budgeting, and intellectual property managementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC215 — Community Engagement and Service: Explores the role of the professional within the local community. Discusses methods for effective and sustainable service-based involvementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MIN220 — Servant Leadership in Arts: Examines the paradigm of servant leadership within creative industries. Integrates character development with professional practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 5 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MUS301
  • Live Sound Reinforcement
  • 4
  • MUS201
  • MUS310
  • Advanced Mixing Techniques
  • 3
  • MUS250
  • RES300
  • Research Methods in the Arts
  • 3
  • ENG205
  • HIS350
  • Cultural Stewardship
  • 3
  • HIS210
  • MUS301 — Live Sound Reinforcement: Advanced training in the setup, tuning, and operation of sound systems for live performance. Addresses safety protocols and equipment maintenanceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS310 — Advanced Mixing Techniques: Explores advanced mixing strategies, including bus processing, automation, and session organization for complex productionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES300 — Research Methods in the Arts: Trains students in academic research and analysis regarding artistic trends and industry technological shifts. Focuses on rigorous methodologyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS350 — Cultural Stewardship: Investigates the responsibility of media creators to act as stewards of cultural narratives. Focuses on the power and impact of audio designThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 6 — Year 3
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MUS320
  • Audio for Moving Image
  • 3
  • MUS250
  • MUS340
  • Mastering and Distribution
  • 3
  • MUS310
  • BUS315
  • Career Development and Professional Purpose
  • 3
  • CHR110
  • MUS360
  • System Design and Installation
  • 3
  • MUS301
  • MUS320 — Audio for Moving Image: Focuses on sound design, Foley recording, and audio synchronization for video projects. Emphasizes the narrative function of soundThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS340 — Mastering and Distribution: Covers the final stages of audio production, including mastering processes for various delivery formats. Discusses quality control and industry standardsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS315 — Career Development and Professional Purpose: This course analyzes the psychological and economic factors influencing professional identity and individual contributions to the workforce. Students will evaluate career trajectories and the integration of personal strengths within complex organizational landscapes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MUS360 — System Design and Installation: Students design and document a permanent sound installation for a specified space. Addresses structural integration and signal flow reliabilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 7 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • MUS405
  • Portfolio Development
  • 3
  • MUS340
  • MUS410
  • Advanced Production Workshop
  • 3
  • MUS340
  • MGT420
  • Organizational Stewardship
  • 3
  • MIN220
  • MUS450
  • Senior Capstone Research
  • 4
  • RES300
  • MUS405 — Portfolio Development: Preparation of an professional digital presence and portfolio. Focuses on curating work that aligns with career goals and personal brandingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS410 — Advanced Production Workshop: A collaborative environment where students work on complex, multi-track projects. Encourages technical problem-solving and group communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MGT420 — Organizational Stewardship: Discusses leadership in the context of institutional stewardship and resource management. Applies ethical principles to complex organizational structuresThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS450 — Senior Capstone Research: Initial design and research phase for the senior capstone project. Includes the development of a project proposal and initial technical analysisThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 8 — Year 4
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP490
  • Senior Capstone Project
  • 4
  • MUS450
  • MUS480
  • Industry Seminar
  • 3
  • MUS410
  • HUM495
  • Professional Ethics and Integrity
  • 3
  • HIS350
  • MUS499
  • Final Production Review
  • 3
  • MUS410
  • CAP490 — Senior Capstone Project: The final execution and presentation of the student's primary audio project. Demonstrates technical mastery and integration of institutional valuesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS480 — Industry Seminar: Current topics in the audio industry, including emerging technologies and professional development. Features guest lectures and career prepThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HUM495 — Professional Ethics and Integrity: Capstone seminar exploring the role of personal and professional integrity in high-pressure creative work. Bridges theological and practical concernsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MUS499 — Final Production Review: Critical evaluation of final projects and professional documentation. Focuses on peer review and reflection on growth throughout the degree programThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of graduation from an accredited secondary institution or possess a high school equivalency diploma. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required for general admission, alongside the submission of an artistic portfolio demonstrating an interest in audio production or musical performance. Prospective students must also submit a personal statement outlining their educational objectives and their commitment to the institutional values of character development and ethical community engagement. Senior Capstone Project The Senior Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the program, requiring students to plan, execute, and document a major audio production or system design project. This project acts as a bridge between classroom learning and professional application, challenging students to address real-world acoustic or creative problems while demonstrating the technical skills mastered throughout their four years of study. Students are required to produce a comprehensive portfolio of their work, which must include a technical documentation report, a high-fidelity audio deliverable, and a reflective essay exploring the ethical dimensions of their creative choices. Valued at four credit hours, this project is supervised by a faculty mentor who provides guidance on both the technical execution and the professional presentation of the final work. Beyond academic achievement, the project serves as a showcase of faith-informed character, requiring students to articulate how their work reflects their identity as a steward of creativity and a servant leader within the audio industry. Students must justify their technical design decisions through the lens of moral reasoning and community service, ensuring that their final deliverables demonstrate not only aesthetic quality but also a commitment to the common good and the integrity of the creative process.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation from the program requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours, maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. In addition to technical coursework, students must complete institutional core requirements in spiritual formation and community service, which emphasize the integration of academic learning with the development of moral character and service-oriented leadership. Students must also receive a passing grade on the Senior Capstone Project, which demonstrates readiness for professional engagement through the lens of ethical integrity and stewardship. Each student is expected to participate in scheduled spiritual formation activities throughout their tenure, fostering a holistic environment where academic discipline and personal growth align. This commitment to both intellectual and spiritual maturity prepares graduates to enter the professional world not merely as technicians, but as representatives of a faith-based tradition that values professional excellence, ethical conduct, and genuine service to others.
  • Career Opportunities
  • Live Sound Engineer for Performing Arts Venues
  • Studio Recording and Mixing Technician
  • Post-Production Audio Editor for Film and Media
  • Acoustic Systems Designer for Educational and Liturgical Spaces
  • Media Production Manager for Non-Profit Organizations
  • Sound Designer for Interactive Media and Gaming
  • Technical Director for Large-Scale Events
  • 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 Music Sound Design, Audio Technology
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years
  • General education | 36 credit hours
  • Faith-Based Music Sound Design, Audio Technology core | 63 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 15 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 6 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG101 | Academic Writing and Rhetoric | 3 | None
  • MUS105 | Introduction to Audio Technology | 3 | None
  • SOC110 | Sociology of Cultural Values | 3 | None
  • HUM102 | History of the Arts | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MAT120 | Mathematics for Sound Engineering | 3 | None
  • MUS115 | Digital Audio Workstation Fundamentals | 3 | MUS105
  • COM101 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 | None
  • PSY101 | General Psychology | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS201 | Acoustics and Psychoacoustics | 4 | MUS115
  • ENG205 | Professional Communication | 3 | ENG101
  • HIS210 | Ethics in Contemporary Society | 3 | None
  • MUS220 | Microphone Technique and Placement | 3 | MUS115
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS250 | Signal Processing and Effects | 3 | MUS220
  • BUS200 | Business Practices for Freelancers | 3 | None
  • SOC215 | Community Engagement and Service | 3 | None
  • MIN220 | Servant Leadership in Arts | 3 | CHR110
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS301 | Live Sound Reinforcement | 4 | MUS201
  • MUS310 | Advanced Mixing Techniques | 3 | MUS250
  • RES300 | Research Methods in the Arts | 3 | ENG205
  • HIS350 | Cultural Stewardship | 3 | HIS210
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS320 | Audio for Moving Image | 3 | MUS250
  • MUS340 | Mastering and Distribution | 3 | MUS310
  • BUS315 | Career Development and Professional Purpose | 3 | CHR110
  • MUS360 | System Design and Installation | 3 | MUS301
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • MUS405 | Portfolio Development | 3 | MUS340
  • MUS410 | Advanced Production Workshop | 3 | MUS340
  • MGT420 | Organizational Stewardship | 3 | MIN220
  • MUS450 | Senior Capstone Research | 4 | RES300
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP490 | Senior Capstone Project | 4 | MUS450
  • MUS480 | Industry Seminar | 3 | MUS410
  • HUM495 | Professional Ethics and Integrity | 3 | HIS350
  • MUS499 | Final Production Review | 3 | MUS410

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Live Sound Engineer for Performing Arts Venues
  • Studio Recording and Mixing Technician
  • Post-Production Audio Editor for Film and Media
  • Acoustic Systems Designer for Educational and Liturgical Spaces
  • Media Production Manager for Non-Profit Organizations
  • Sound Designer for Interactive Media and Gaming
  • Technical Director for Large-Scale Events

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 Music Sound Design, Audio Technology
  • Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Four academic years