Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Psychology — Minor: Christian Psychology, Theological Integration

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Psychology

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 Science and Psychology

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze complex psychological phenomena through the integration of empirical research and theological perspectives.
• Evaluate historical and contemporary theories of behavior, cognition, and personality within a rigorous academic framework.
• Design original quantitative or qualitative research studies that address critical issues in the psychological sciences.
• Demonstrate advanced proficiency in statistical analysis and methodological research design.
• Integrate Christian ethical reasoning into the practice of research, leadership, and professional decision-making.
• Communicate scholarly findings effectively to diverse audiences in academic, professional, and community settings.
• Apply principles of servant leadership and stewardship to influence organizational and communal psychological health.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES800
• Advanced Research Methodology
• 3
• None
• PSY810
• Theoretical Foundations of Psychology
• 3
• None
• THE800
• Theological Integration in the Behavioral Sciences
• 4
• None
• RES800 — Advanced Research Methodology: This course explores advanced quantitative and qualitative research designs suitable for doctoral-level inquiry. Students examine sampling strategies, data collection methods, and ethical considerations in researchThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• PSY810 — Theoretical Foundations of Psychology: An analysis of the historical evolution of psychological theories and their impact on contemporary thought. Students evaluate various schools of thought against empirical evidenceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• THE800 — Theological Integration in the Behavioral Sciences: This course examines the interface between psychological theory and theological anthropology. Emphasis is placed on the ethical stewardship of human knowledge and spiritual formationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES820
• Advanced Statistical Analysis
• 3
• RES800
• PSY830
• Cognitive and Behavioral Processes
• 3
• None
• COU850
• Ethics in Professional Practice
• 3
• None
• SOC810
• Community Dynamics and Leadership
• 3
• None
• RES820 — Advanced Statistical Analysis: Focuses on the application of multivariate statistics to psychological datasets. Students utilize software tools to analyze research results and derive meaningful conclusionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• PSY830 — Cognitive and Behavioral Processes: A deep dive into advanced topics regarding memory, perception, and human learning. Students explore the biological and environmental factors influencing behavioral outcomesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU850 — Ethics in Professional Practice: Evaluates professional standards and ethical dilemmas in research and applied psychology. Covers duty of care, confidentiality, and servant leadership in practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC810 — Community Dynamics and Leadership: Explores the psychological impact of community structures and the role of leadership in fostering healthy environments. Focuses on social responsibilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES850
• Qualitative Inquiry Methods
• 3
• RES800
• PSY870
• Psychology of Human Development
• 3
• None
• THE850
• Christian Worldview and Ethics
• 3
• THE800
• MGT820
• Organizational Psychology and Stewardship
• 3
• None
• RES850 — Qualitative Inquiry Methods: Investigates phenomenological and grounded theory approaches in psychological research. Students practice coding data and interpreting lived experiencesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• PSY870 — Psychology of Human Development: Examines lifespan development through the lens of psychological maturity and spiritual growth. Focuses on identity formation across the developmental cycleThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• THE850 — Christian Worldview and Ethics: Deepens the integration of faith and reason within academic disciplines. Encourages critical thinking regarding moral obligations in a secularized research environmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MGT820 — Organizational Psychology and Stewardship: Analyzes behavior within organizations and the role of management in promoting integrity. Discusses stewardship as a primary leadership valueThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES890
• Dissertation Prospectus Development
• 3
• RES820, RES850
• PSY890
• Advanced Topics in Personality Theory
• 3
• None
• EDU820
• Pedagogy in Higher Education
• 3
• None
• SOC850
• Cross-Cultural Psychology
• 3
• None
• RES890 — Dissertation Prospectus Development: Guides students in the development of their dissertation proposal. Includes refinement of research questions and methodological justificationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• PSY890 — Advanced Topics in Personality Theory: Explores the complexities of individual differences and character development. Links theoretical personality models to modern diagnostic frameworksThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU820 — Pedagogy in Higher Education: Prepares doctoral students for teaching roles. Focuses on curriculum design and fostering student engagement in faith-based academic settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC850 — Cross-Cultural Psychology: Studies the influence of culture on psychological processes. Emphasizes empathy and global awareness in research and community interactionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES900
• Dissertation Research I
• 4
• RES890
• PSY910
• Advanced Social Psychology
• 3
• None
• COM810
• Scholarly Communication and Publication
• 3
• None
• THE900
• Spiritual Formation and Character Development
• 3
• THE850
• RES900 — Dissertation Research I: Initiation of data collection and initial analysis for the dissertation. Regular consultation with the dissertation advisor is requiredThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• PSY910 — Advanced Social Psychology: Focuses on social influence, group dynamics, and conflict resolution. Examines how service and altruism influence social outcomesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM810 — Scholarly Communication and Publication: Provides instruction on writing for academic journals and professional dissemination of research. Emphasizes clarity and scholarly rigorThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• THE900 — Spiritual Formation and Character Development: An advanced seminar on the development of personal and professional character. Focuses on aligning psychological knowledge with a life of integrityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES950
• Dissertation Finalization and Defense
• 4
• RES900
• PSY950
• Capstone Seminar: Leadership in Practice
• 3
• None
• BUS880
• Professional Ethics and Public Policy
• 3
• None
• MIN850
• Servant Leadership in Academic Settings
• 3
• None
• RES950 — Dissertation Finalization and Defense: Completion of the final dissertation manuscript and successful oral defense. Demonstrates final competency in research and faith-informed integrationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• PSY950 — Capstone Seminar: Leadership in Practice: Synthesizes program learning to address professional leadership challenges. Students reflect on their future contributions as researchers and practitionersThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• BUS880 — Professional Ethics and Public Policy: Explores how psychological research influences public policy and corporate ethics. Discusses the role of the researcher in the public sphereThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MIN850 — Servant Leadership in Academic Settings: Focuses on applying the principles of servant leadership to academic environments. Examines the role of the scholar-practitioner as a mentorThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Applicants must hold a master's degree in psychology or a closely related behavioral science discipline from an accredited institution. Admission requirements include a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, the submission of a professional curriculum vitae, three academic or professional letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining research interests and alignment with the university's faith-based mission. Candidates must also demonstrate aptitude for advanced academic research through a writing sample or portfolio of scholarly work. Dissertation Requirement The dissertation serves as the culminating scholarly endeavor, requiring the candidate to conduct an original, independent research study that contributes new knowledge to the field of faith-based psychology. Students must identify a significant research question, conduct a thorough literature review, collect and analyze data, and synthesize findings to demonstrate mastery of their chosen specialty. The project reflects the candidate's ability to navigate complex ethical landscapes and apply rigorous scientific methodology to meaningful human inquiries. Integration of faith is a mandatory component of the dissertation process, requiring students to reflect on the theological and ethical implications of their research outcomes. Candidates must articulate how their work promotes stewardship, human flourishing, and the principles of servant leadership within their specific area of study. The dissertation is evaluated on its technical rigor, scholarly innovation, and its potential to serve the community, ensuring that academic expertise is balanced with the character development expected of a PhD graduate.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours, including the dissertation component, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Beyond academic excellence, students are expected to demonstrate consistent spiritual maturity and adherence to the university’s code of ethical conduct. This includes active participation in community service, chapel engagement, and the integration of faith-informed values into all aspects of their scholarly work.
• Students must also complete a final oral defense of their dissertation before a faculty committee. The awarding of the degree signifies not only a mastery of psychological research but also a commitment to living out one's professional vocation with integrity, humility, and a heart for service. Graduates are prepared to enter their fields as leaders who pair academic rigor with deep-seated personal and professional character.
• Career Opportunities
• Postsecondary Faculty in Psychology
• Psychological Research Consultant
• Non-Profit Organizational Leader
• Academic Administrator
• Policy Analyst for Social Services
• Director of Community Outreach
• Human Resource Development Consultant
• Applied Behavioral Researcher
• 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 Psychology
• 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 psychology 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
• RES800 | Advanced Research Methodology | 3 | None
• PSY810 | Theoretical Foundations of Psychology | 3 | None
• THE800 | Theological Integration in the Behavioral Sciences | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES820 | Advanced Statistical Analysis | 3 | RES800
• PSY830 | Cognitive and Behavioral Processes | 3 | None
• COU850 | Ethics in Professional Practice | 3 | None
• SOC810 | Community Dynamics and Leadership | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES850 | Qualitative Inquiry Methods | 3 | RES800
• PSY870 | Psychology of Human Development | 3 | None
• THE850 | Christian Worldview and Ethics | 3 | THE800
• MGT820 | Organizational Psychology and Stewardship | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES890 | Dissertation Prospectus Development | 3 | RES820, RES850
• PSY890 | Advanced Topics in Personality Theory | 3 | None
• EDU820 | Pedagogy in Higher Education | 3 | None
• SOC850 | Cross-Cultural Psychology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES900 | Dissertation Research I | 4 | RES890
• PSY910 | Advanced Social Psychology | 3 | None
• COM810 | Scholarly Communication and Publication | 3 | None
• THE900 | Spiritual Formation and Character Development | 3 | THE850
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES950 | Dissertation Finalization and Defense | 4 | RES900
• PSY950 | Capstone Seminar: Leadership in Practice | 3 | None
• BUS880 | Professional Ethics and Public Policy | 3 | None
• MIN850 | Servant Leadership in Academic Settings | 3 | None