Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based African Studies

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based African Studies

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four to six academic years, depending on approved transfer credit, enrollment status, research progress, and dissertation completion

Academic unit

HBIU College of International Studies

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Evaluate historical and contemporary sociopolitical developments across diverse African regions through critical interdisciplinary research.
• Design original qualitative or quantitative research projects that contribute significant new knowledge to the field of African studies.
• Analyze the influence of ethical, faith-based paradigms on social policy and community development strategies within African contexts.
• Integrate advanced theoretical frameworks to interpret the complex cultural dynamics and historical trajectories of African nations.
• Communicate complex academic arguments effectively to professional, scholarly, and community-based audiences.
• Demonstrate servant leadership and ethical stewardship through the critical analysis of cross-cultural development initiatives.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES700
• Foundations of Research Methodology
• 3
• None
• HIS705
• Historiography of Modern Africa
• 3
• None
• ETH710
• Ethical Frameworks in Organizational Leadership
• 3
• None
• RES700 — Foundations of Research Methodology: An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research designs relevant to African studies. Focuses on ethical inquiry and data collection rigorThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• HIS705 — Historiography of Modern Africa: Examination of major historical schools of thought regarding the African continent. Students evaluate historical narratives through critical lensesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• ETH710 — Ethical Frameworks in Organizational Leadership: This course examines normative ethical theories and their application to decision-making within complex global organizational structures. Students analyze contemporary administrative practices through the lens of institutional accountability and social responsibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• SOC720
• Sociology of Development in Africa
• 4
• RES700
• HIS725
• African Political Systems
• 3
• HIS705
• RES730
• Advanced Qualitative Research
• 3
• RES700
• AFS740
• Humanitarian Assistance and Global Development
• 3
• None
• SOC720 — Sociology of Development in Africa: Analysis of economic and social development theories and their application in diverse regional contexts. Focuses on sustainable community outcomesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• HIS725 — African Political Systems: Comparative study of traditional and modern political structures. Evaluates governance models through the lens of stewardship and civic responsibilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES730 — Advanced Qualitative Research: In-depth study of ethnographic and phenomenological research methods. Students apply these methods to contemporary issues in African social lifeThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• AFS740 — Humanitarian Assistance and Global Development: This course explores the historical and operational dynamics of international humanitarian intervention and aid delivery in African contexts. It evaluates the impact of non-governmental organizations on sustainable community development and social infrastructure. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES800
• Quantitative Inquiry and Statistical Analysis
• 4
• RES700
• SOC810
• Global Diaspora and Cultural Identity
• 3
• SOC720
• MGT820
• Organizational Leadership in Global Contexts
• 3
• THE710
• RES830
• Dissertation Prospectus Development
• 3
• RES730, RES800
• RES800 — Quantitative Inquiry and Statistical Analysis: Application of statistical methods to social research. Focuses on data-driven decision-making in policy and organizational contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC810 — Global Diaspora and Cultural Identity: Explores the movement of African peoples and the maintenance of identity. Examines the impact of migration on community cohesion and developmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MGT820 — Organizational Leadership in Global Contexts: Study of management models for international NGOs and government bodies. Stresses servant leadership and fiscal transparencyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES830 — Dissertation Prospectus Development: Guided development of the dissertation research proposal. Includes research design finalization and initial literature review synthesisThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• SOC840
• Sociocultural Dynamics and Political Transformation
• 3
• HIS725
• EDU850
• Educational Systems and Human Development
• 3
• SOC720
• RES860
• Advanced Dissertation Research I
• 4
• RES830
• COM870
• Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies
• 3
• None
• SOC840 — Sociocultural Dynamics and Political Transformation: This course investigates the intersection of traditional sociocultural structures and modern political movements in African societies. Emphasis is placed on the role of civil society organizations in driving grassroots change and public policy reform. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU850 — Educational Systems and Human Development: Comparative analysis of African educational frameworks. Focuses on policies that improve access and quality through community-based advocacyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES860 — Advanced Dissertation Research I: Initial data collection phase for the doctoral dissertation. Students work closely with advisors to ensure methodology compliance and integrityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM870 — Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies: Theoretical and practical study of effective communication in diverse, multinational environments. Focuses on professional interpersonal competenceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES900
• Advanced Dissertation Research II
• 4
• RES860
• SOC910
• Policy Advocacy and Humanitarian Law
• 3
• SOC720, HIS725
• MGT920
• Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding
• 3
• MGT820
• AFS930
• Advanced Seminar in African Studies and Professional Practice
• 3
• CHR740
• RES900 — Advanced Dissertation Research II: Continuation of research, involving data analysis and synthesis of findings. Emphasizes rigorous analytical writing and objective interpretationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC910 — Policy Advocacy and Humanitarian Law: Study of international frameworks and their application in local contexts. Evaluates the role of advocacy in protecting human dignityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MGT920 — Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding: Exploration of peace-making strategies in fragmented societies. Focuses on ethical mediation and the promotion of reconciliationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• AFS930 — Advanced Seminar in African Studies and Professional Practice: This seminar synthesizes advanced research methodologies and current scholarly discourse regarding African development, sociology, and political science. Students develop actionable strategies for implementing academic insights within diverse professional, nonprofit, and community environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CAP950
• Dissertation Defense and Final Writing
• 4
• RES900
• RES960
• Applied Research Seminar
• 3
• RES900
• HIS970
• African Studies Colloquium
• 3
• None
• MGT980
• Professional Leadership Seminar
• 3
• MGT920
• CAP950 — Dissertation Defense and Final Writing: Completion of the final dissertation manuscript and the oral defense of findings. Demonstrates mastery of research, logic, and ethical scholarshipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES960 — Applied Research Seminar: Preparation for presenting findings in academic and professional forums. Focuses on communication for broad societal impactThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• HIS970 — African Studies Colloquium: A collaborative forum to discuss current trends and research in the field. Students present their work to faculty and peersThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MGT980 — Professional Leadership Seminar: Preparation for transitioning into senior leadership roles. Emphasizes character, ethical decision-making, and long-term societal contributionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Applicants must hold a conferred Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a related field such as History, International Relations, Sociology, or Theology. Candidates are required to submit a personal statement outlining their research interests, official academic transcripts demonstrating a minimum GPA of 3.2 in graduate studies, three letters of recommendation, and a writing sample that demonstrates capacity for advanced research and critical inquiry. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation serves as the crowning achievement of the PhD in Faith-Based African Studies, requiring original, independent research that makes a substantial contribution to the academic discipline. Students are expected to identify a specific, complex problem within the African context and apply rigorous scholarly methods to analyze, interpret, and propose solutions. This process demonstrates a candidate's mastery of the literature, methodology, and theoretical frameworks necessary for high-level academic inquiry. Beyond technical research, the dissertation serves as an instrument of spiritual and ethical formation. Candidates must articulate how their work reflects principles of biblical stewardship and servant leadership, ensuring their academic conclusions promote the dignity and flourishing of individuals and communities. This 12-credit requirement results in a formal defense before a faculty committee, where the candidate must demonstrate both advanced intellectual proficiency and a character reflective of integrated, faith-informed maturity.

• Candidates for graduation must successfully complete the full 120-credit hour requirement, including 35 transferred credits and 85 credits of doctoral coursework. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is required for degree conferral, alongside the successful completion and oral defense of the doctoral dissertation. All students must remain in good standing, meeting the university’s expectations for academic integrity and professional conduct.
• In addition to academic achievement, students are expected to engage in consistent community service, regular spiritual formation reflections, and participation in institutional character development programs. These requirements ensure that graduates leave the program not only as proficient scholars but as individuals prepared to serve with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to the common good, embodying a life of faith-informed excellence.
• Career Opportunities
• International Policy Consultant
• Academic Researcher and Professor
• Global Development Non-Profit Director
• Strategic Advisor for Humanitarian Organizations
• Cultural Analyst for Government Agencies
• Community Development Specialist
• Faith-Based Advocacy 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 | Ph.D. in Faith-Based African Studies
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Maximum approved transfer credit | Up to 40 semester credit hours
• Minimum credits completed through the University after maximum transfer | 80 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four to six academic years, depending on approved transfer credit, enrollment status, research progress, and dissertation completion
• Advanced Faith-Based African Studies theory and specialization | 30 credit hours
• Research methods, statistics, and scholarly inquiry | 24 credit hours
• Professional leadership and higher-education teaching | 15 credit hours
• Advanced electives and concentration courses | 18 credit hours
• Scholarly writing and publication | 9 credit hours
• Comprehensive examination and doctoral candidacy | 6 credit hours
• Dissertation research and defense | 18 credit hours
• Total | 120 semester credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES700 | Foundations of Research Methodology | 3 | None
• HIS705 | Historiography of Modern Africa | 3 | None
• ETH710 | Ethical Frameworks in Organizational Leadership | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC720 | Sociology of Development in Africa | 4 | RES700
• HIS725 | African Political Systems | 3 | HIS705
• RES730 | Advanced Qualitative Research | 3 | RES700
• AFS740 | Humanitarian Assistance and Global Development | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES800 | Quantitative Inquiry and Statistical Analysis | 4 | RES700
• SOC810 | Global Diaspora and Cultural Identity | 3 | SOC720
• MGT820 | Organizational Leadership in Global Contexts | 3 | THE710
• RES830 | Dissertation Prospectus Development | 3 | RES730, RES800
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• SOC840 | Sociocultural Dynamics and Political Transformation | 3 | HIS725
• EDU850 | Educational Systems and Human Development | 3 | SOC720
• RES860 | Advanced Dissertation Research I | 4 | RES830
• COM870 | Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES900 | Advanced Dissertation Research II | 4 | RES860
• SOC910 | Policy Advocacy and Humanitarian Law | 3 | SOC720, HIS725
• MGT920 | Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding | 3 | MGT820
• AFS930 | Advanced Seminar in African Studies and Professional Practice | 3 | CHR740
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP950 | Dissertation Defense and Final Writing | 4 | RES900
• RES960 | Applied Research Seminar | 3 | RES900
• HIS970 | African Studies Colloquium | 3 | None
• MGT980 | Professional Leadership Seminar | 3 | MGT920