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Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Architecture, Specialization in Historical Artifacts

Academic unitCollege of Architecture, Arts and DesignTotal credits120Estimated duration3 yearsSource documentDoctor_of_Philosophy_in_Faith_Based_Architecture__Specialization_in_Historical_A.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

Ed.D. in Faith-Based Architecture, Specialization in Historical Artifacts

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

Three to six academic years, depending on approved transfer credit, enrollment status, academic progress, and completion of the doctoral project

Advanced faith-based architecture and specialization in historical artifacts courses

30 credit hours

Leadership, administration, and professional practice

21 credit hours

Research methods and program evaluation

18 credit hours

Professional application and doctoral residency

15 credit hours

Advanced electives or concentration courses

12 credit hours

Comprehensive examination and doctoral candidacy

6 credit hours

Applied doctoral project and defense

18 credit hours

Total

120 semester credit hours

The Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Architecture with a specialization in Historical Artifacts is a rigorous, research-intensive program designed for scholars and practitioners who seek to integrate architectural theory with the preservation and ethical stewardship of historical sites and artifacts. The curriculum emphasizes the intersection of design history, cultural heritage, and the ethical responsibilities inherent in managing sacred or significant spaces. Students engage in advanced scholarship to address the complexities of restoring and interpreting historical environments within a framework of servant leadership and communal integrity.

Through a combination of intensive seminars and original research, candidates explore the philosophical, technical, and theological dimensions of the built environment. The program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, challenging students to analyze historical artifacts not merely as objects of study, but as cultural legacies that inform contemporary design practices. Graduates are equipped to lead in academic, archival, and preservation contexts with a commitment to the stewardship of resources and the promotion of human dignity through architecture.

The Doctor of Education in Faith-Based Architecture, Specialization in Historical Artifacts is an applied professional doctorate emphasizing advanced faith-based architecture, specialization in historical artifacts knowledge, organizational leadership, ethical stewardship, program development, community-care systems, higher-education instruction, and evidence-informed professional practice.

Students may receive up to 40 semester credit hours of approved graduate or doctoral transfer credit. Accepted transfer credits are applied toward the 120-credit graduation requirement and may reduce the number of courses and the amount of time required to complete the degree. A student receiving the maximum transfer-credit award must complete at least 80 semester credit hours through the University.

The applied doctoral project must address a documented faith-based architecture, specialization in historical artifacts-support, educational, organizational, or community-care need. The project must include scholarly research, an implementation model, measurable outcomes, ethical safeguards, an evaluation plan, and a successful oral defense.

DOCTORAL TRANSFER-CREDIT POLICY: The Doctor of Education and Doctor of Philosophy programs each require 120 semester credit hours. Students may transfer up to 40 semester credit hours of eligible graduate or doctoral coursework toward either degree. Transfer credit is not automatically awarded. Each request is evaluated individually according to: The academic level of the previous coursework; The relevance of the coursework to the doctoral curriculum; Course content and learning outcomes; Credit-hour equivalency; Grades earned; The age of the coursework; Official institutional documentation; The University's residency and transfer-credit policies. Accepted transfer credit may reduce the number of courses and the amount of time required to complete the degree. Students awarded the maximum 40 transfer credits will have 80 semester credit hours remaining in the 120-credit doctoral program. Comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidacy, doctoral residency, the applied doctoral project, dissertation research, and the final oral defense must ordinarily be completed through the University. These requirements may not be satisfied through transfer credit unless expressly permitted under a published University policy.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
Ed.D. in Faith-Based Architecture, Specialization in Historical Artifacts
Total program length
120 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Three to six academic years, depending on approved transfer credit, enrollment status, academic progress, and completion of the doctoral project
Academic unit
College of Architecture, Arts and Design
Total credits
120
Duration
3 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze complex historical architectural theories and their application to current preservation challenges.
  • Evaluate the ethical implications of artifact conservation within the context of communal stewardship and servant leadership.
  • Design advanced research methodologies to interpret the significance of historical artifacts in diverse cultural settings.
  • Integrate Christian worldviews with architectural principles to foster sustainable and meaningful design interventions.
  • Communicate scholarly findings through peer-reviewed discourse and professional advocacy for heritage sites.
  • Demonstrate advanced proficiency in the documentation, analysis, and preservation of historical building materials and artifacts.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a master's degree in architecture, architectural history, design, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. A minimum graduate GPA of 3.0 is required for consideration. Prospective students must submit a professional portfolio, a formal research proposal for their potential dissertation, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining their commitment to ethical stewardship and servant leadership. All credentials are reviewed to ensure academic readiness and alignment with the program's scholarly focus.

Program Structure

Official program structure

Program Details

  • Total Credits: 120
  • Duration: 3 years
  • Degree Level: Doctorate

Semester-by-Semester Curriculum

Official course sequence

Year 1

Semester 1

12 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
RES700Advanced Research Methods in Architecture3None
View Description

This course covers advanced qualitative and quantitative research techniques for architectural studies. Students learn to structure doctoral inquiries for impact in professional environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ARC710Sociology of Architectural Environments3None
View Description

This course explores the relationship between social structures and the physical built environment through empirical observation and critical theory. Students examine how spatial design influences human behavior and communal interaction patterns. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR720Ethics in Cultural Stewardship3None
View Description

An in-depth analysis of ethical frameworks in the conservation of historical sites. The course emphasizes servant leadership in managing sacred objects and sites. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS730History of Sacred Artifacts3None
View Description

A survey of artifacts associated with historical architectural spaces. Students learn to categorize, preserve, and interpret items of cultural and religious significance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

13 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
RES740Technical Documentation of Heritage Sites3RES700
View Description

Focuses on advanced documentation techniques including photogrammetry and digital archiving. Students develop skills for long-term preservation of architectural data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT750Nonprofit Resource Management3None
View Description

Explores the management of human and material resources in non-profit architecture and design settings. Emphasizes biblical stewardship of facilities and historical assets. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

URB760Urban Design and Social Cohesion3None
View Description

This course investigates the impact of urban planning on civic engagement and community development. Emphasis is placed on the role of public space in fostering inclusivity and social capital within diverse populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS800Restoration Theory and Practice4HIS730
View Description

An examination of restoration philosophies and their historical progression. Students perform case study analysis of building restoration projects. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

16 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
RES810Advanced Archival Research4RES740
View Description

Utilizing primary sources and digital databases to recover architectural history. Students learn the ethics of information retrieval and archival stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR820Leadership in Design Organizations4None
View Description

Discusses servant leadership theories applied to design firms and preservation agencies. Focuses on leading diverse teams toward communal goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS830Material Science for Artifacts4HIS730
View Description

Explores the degradation of construction materials and artifacts over time. Emphasizes stabilization techniques that respect historical integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES840Qualitative Analysis in Design History4RES700
View Description

Deep study of qualitative methods for analyzing historical human-space interaction. Students learn to synthesize data for public communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

18 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
HIS850Global Perspectives on Heritage Preservation4None
View Description

Examines how global cultures prioritize and protect architectural heritage. Comparative analysis of legal and social structures for heritage protection. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR860Public Engagement and Cultural Advocacy4None
View Description

Examines methods for advocating for the protection of historically significant sites and artifacts. Focuses on inclusive community engagement strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT870Stewardship of Institutional Facilities4MGT750
View Description

Addresses the long-term planning and maintenance of mission-based facilities. Discusses sustainability and ethical fiscal management in property oversight. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CAP950Doctoral Dissertation I6RES900
View Description

Initial phases of research, data collection, and initial drafting for the doctoral dissertation project. Focuses on the application of ethical stewardship and academic rigor. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 5

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
CAP960Doctoral Dissertation II6CAP950
View Description

Final synthesis of data and completion of the written dissertation. Students finalize their arguments and prepare for the public defense process. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

HIS970Advanced Seminar in Architectural Legacy4None
View Description

Capstone discussion course focusing on the integration of history, theory, and faith-informed practice. Students reflect on their scholarly contribution to the field. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

CHR980Professional Service Practicum4None
View Description

Requires participation in an external project involving historical artifact stewardship. Provides students with practical experience in nonprofit service environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Final Project Requirement

Final project requirement

Dissertation Proposal Development

  • 4
  • RES840
  • HIS910
  • Independent Study in Artifact Analysis
  • 4
  • HIS830
  • CHR920
  • Character Formation and Professional Ethics
  • 4
  • CHR820
  • HIS930
  • Contemporary Trends in Preservation
  • 4
  • HIS800
  • RES900 — Dissertation Proposal Development: Students refine their research questions and methodologies for their final project. Facilitates faculty guidance on scholarly rigor and ethical research standards. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS910 — Independent Study in Artifact Analysis: Advanced investigation of a niche area of architectural artifacts. Students work under faculty mentorship to develop specific analytical expertise. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CHR920 — Character Formation and Professional Ethics: A capstone-level exploration of the relationship between faith, character, and professional duty. Focuses on maintaining integrity in high-stakes environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS930 — Contemporary Trends in Preservation: Reviews the latest theoretical and technical movements in historical preservation. Students analyze shifts in public and academic attitudes toward heritage. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Dissertation Requirement

  • The Dissertation represents the pinnacle of the doctoral experience, requiring candidates to produce a significant original contribution to the study of historical artifacts and architecture. Candidates must investigate a specific problem or phenomenon within the field, employing rigorous research methods to generate insights that advance professional practice. The scope includes critical analysis of design history, site-specific preservation strategies, and the societal impact of architectural heritage.
  • Beyond academic excellence, the dissertation serves as a vehicle for the synthesis of faith-based principles and professional practice. Students must demonstrate how their research reflects biblical stewardship, ethical transparency, and the servant-leadership model in the management of cultural resources. The final document, worth 12 credits, is defended before a faculty committee, validating both the student's mastery of the discipline and their growth as an ethically grounded scholar capable of contributing to the common good. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CAP950Doctoral Dissertation I6 credits
  • CAP960Doctoral Dissertation II6 credits

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Candidates must successfully defend their dissertation, demonstrating both technical competence and a commitment to rigorous inquiry. In addition to academic requirements, candidates are expected to participate in institutional formation activities, including regular community service and reflective seminars that emphasize the role of character, spiritual maturity, and ethical integrity in professional life.
  • Graduation signifies that the student has not only mastered the academic content of the program but has also cultivated the leadership capacity required for faith-informed service. The university requires evidence of a commitment to the university's ethos of community service and servant leadership as part of the total assessment of the candidate. This ensures that graduates are prepared to serve with excellence and humility in their respective professional and community spheres.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Historical Preservation Architect
  • Curator of Religious Architecture
  • Archival Research Consultant
  • Director of Heritage Stewardship Programs
  • Academic Faculty in Architectural History
  • Cultural Resource Manager for Nonprofits
  • Institutional Facilities Director

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 | Ed.D. in Faith-Based Architecture, Specialization in Historical Artifacts
  • 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 | Three to six academic years, depending on approved transfer credit, enrollment status, academic progress, and completion of the doctoral project
  • Advanced faith-based architecture and specialization in historical artifacts courses | 30 credit hours
  • Leadership, administration, and professional practice | 21 credit hours
  • Research methods and program evaluation | 18 credit hours
  • Professional application and doctoral residency | 15 credit hours
  • Advanced electives or concentration courses | 12 credit hours
  • Comprehensive examination and doctoral candidacy | 6 credit hours
  • Applied doctoral project and defense | 18 credit hours
  • Total | 120 semester credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • RES700 | Advanced Research Methods in Architecture | 3 | None
  • ARC710 | Sociology of Architectural Environments | 3 | None
  • CHR720 | Ethics in Cultural Stewardship | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • HIS730 | History of Sacred Artifacts | 3 | None
  • RES740 | Technical Documentation of Heritage Sites | 3 | RES700
  • MGT750 | Nonprofit Resource Management | 3 | None
  • URB760 | Urban Design and Social Cohesion | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • HIS800 | Restoration Theory and Practice | 4 | HIS730
  • RES810 | Advanced Archival Research | 4 | RES740
  • CHR820 | Leadership in Design Organizations | 4 | None
  • HIS830 | Material Science for Artifacts | 4 | HIS730
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • RES840 | Qualitative Analysis in Design History | 4 | RES700
  • HIS850 | Global Perspectives on Heritage Preservation | 4 | None
  • CHR860 | Public Engagement and Cultural Advocacy | 4 | None
  • MGT870 | Stewardship of Institutional Facilities | 4 | MGT750
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • RES900 | Dissertation Proposal Development | 4 | RES840
  • HIS910 | Independent Study in Artifact Analysis | 4 | HIS830
  • CHR920 | Character Formation and Professional Ethics | 4 | CHR820
  • HIS930 | Contemporary Trends in Preservation | 4 | HIS800
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP950 | Doctoral Dissertation I | 6 | RES900
  • CAP960 | Doctoral Dissertation II | 6 | CAP950
  • HIS970 | Advanced Seminar in Architectural Legacy | 4 | None
  • CHR980 | Professional Service Practicum | 4 | None