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Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Renewable Energy, Specialization in Sustainability Green Technology

Academic unitCollege of Science and EngineeringTotal credits120Estimated duration3 yearsSource documentDoctor_of_Philosophy_in_Faith_Based_Renewable_Energy__Specialization_in_Sustaina.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

Ed.D. in Faith-Based Renewable Energy, Specialization in Sustainability Green Technology

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 Renewable Energy and sustainability green technology specialization 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 Renewable Energy, Specialization in Sustainability Green Technology, is an advanced research degree designed to equip scholars and practitioners with the technical expertise and ethical framework necessary to address global energy challenges. The program explores the intersection of advanced engineering systems, environmental sustainability, and the principles of responsible stewardship. Through rigorous academic inquiry, students analyze complex energy infrastructures and develop sustainable solutions that align with the moral imperatives of resource conservation and community service.

Students in this program engage in high-level research focused on green technologies, including solar, wind, and geothermal systems, while integrating considerations of socioeconomic impacts and ethical deployment. The curriculum emphasizes the application of technical knowledge within a framework of servant leadership and social responsibility. Graduates are prepared to lead initiatives that promote energy security and environmental health, effectively balancing technological innovation with the foundational values of integrity, sustainability, and global stewardship.

The Doctor of Education in Faith-Based Renewable Energy, Specialization in Sustainability Green Technology is an applied professional doctorate emphasizing advanced faith-based renewable energy and sustainability green technology 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 renewable energy and sustainability green technology-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 Renewable Energy, Specialization in Sustainability Green Technology
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 Science and Engineering
Total credits
120
Duration
3 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze complex renewable energy systems and their integration into existing electrical grids through advanced scientific research.
  • Evaluate the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of green technology policies and implementation strategies.
  • Design innovative engineering solutions that prioritize resource efficiency and sustainable development in diverse community contexts.
  • Integrate ethical reasoning and biblical stewardship principles into the technical and strategic decision-making processes of energy management.
  • Communicate original research findings effectively to diverse professional, scientific, and community audiences.
  • Develop strategic frameworks for servant leadership within the fields of environmental sustainability and renewable energy.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a master's degree from an accredited institution in engineering, environmental science, physics, or a closely related discipline with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Prospective students are required to submit a professional portfolio, a statement of purpose outlining their research interests and how they align with the institution's commitment to ethical and faith-informed scholarship, and three letters of recommendation that speak to their academic capability and potential for leadership.

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
RES701Foundations of Ethical Research3None
View Description

Students explore the philosophical and ethical foundations of scientific inquiry within a research-based context. The course emphasizes moral accountability and integrity in experimental design. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ENG705Advanced Renewable Energy Systems3None
View Description

This course analyzes high-level electrical and mechanical systems utilized in solar and wind energy production. Research focuses on maximizing efficiency and reducing environmental degradation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS710Servant Leadership in Technology3None
View Description

Participants study leadership models that prioritize the welfare of others and the responsible management of technological resources. The course evaluates historical examples of ethics in engineering leadership. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES720Quantitative Research Methods3RES701
View Description

This course covers advanced statistical analysis and data modeling as applied to energy sector research. Students learn to interpret complex data to support evidence-based decision making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 2

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ENG715Sustainability Green Technology Integration4ENG705
View Description

Students examine the integration of green technologies within existing urban and rural infrastructure networks. Key topics include resource allocation and long-term sustainability impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

SOC725Sociology of Environmental Stewardship3None
View Description

This course investigates the sociological impacts of environmental policies on vulnerable communities. Students evaluate strategies to improve quality of life through equitable energy distribution. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

THE730Ethical Stewardship and Sustainability4None
View Description

This course provides a framework for integrating ethical and biblical principles into ecological and technological stewardship. Students develop models for sustainable community development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES801Qualitative Research Methodology3RES720
View Description

Students study qualitative research paradigms, focusing on interviewing, case studies, and community-based participatory research. The course highlights the importance of cultural context in sustainability efforts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Semester 3

14 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ENG805Advanced Thermodynamics of Renewable Energy4ENG715
View Description

This technical course analyzes the thermodynamic efficiency of advanced conversion systems. Students apply theoretical physics to improve the design of energy harvesting technologies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

BUS815Nonprofit Resource Management3BUS710
View Description

Students analyze business models for nonprofit organizations that implement renewable energy programs. Focus is placed on financial sustainability and donor stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

ENV820Global Environmental Policy Analysis4None
View Description

This course evaluates international environmental laws and their effects on local technology deployment. Students assess how policy can serve the public interest while fostering innovation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

RES810Doctoral Seminar on Research Design3RES801
View Description

Students refine their dissertation proposals through critical peer review and faculty mentorship. The course focuses on identifying a clear, impactful research gap. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Year 2

Semester 4

11 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
ENG825Smart Grid and Sustainable Infrastructure4ENG805
View Description

This course covers the design and management of smart grid technology for enhanced reliability and community empowerment. Students analyze technical challenges and system security. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

EDU830Community Education and Engagement3None
View Description

Students learn how to lead community education initiatives to promote the adoption of green technologies. Methods for developing effective outreach programs are explored. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

MGT835Strategic Project Implementation4BUS815
View Description

Participants develop project management skills tailored for the execution of large-scale renewable energy initiatives. Emphasis is placed on timeline management, budgeting, and ethical accountability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Final Project Requirement

Final project requirement

Dissertation Research I

  • 4
  • RES810
  • ENG905
  • Advanced Materials for Sustainability
  • 4
  • ENG825
  • SOC910
  • Community Development and Social Equity
  • 3
  • SOC725
  • HIS915
  • History of Stewardship and Environmental Ethics
  • 3
  • None
  • DIS901 — Dissertation Research I: This is the initial phase of independent research under faculty supervision. Students collect data and initiate analysis related to their specific dissertation topic. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ENG905 — Advanced Materials for Sustainability: Students evaluate novel materials for use in high-efficiency energy cells and storage systems. Research emphasizes environmentally friendly lifecycle analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC910 — Community Development and Social Equity: This course analyzes the intersection of social justice and energy development. Students examine how technological advancements can reduce inequality and empower underserved populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS915 — History of Stewardship and Environmental Ethics: This course surveys the historical evolution of stewardship thought in various traditions. Students apply these perspectives to modern environmental challenges. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Dissertation Finalization and Defense

  • 4
  • DIS901
  • COM920
  • Communication for Professional and Public Impact
  • 3
  • None
  • MGT925
  • Ethical Leadership and Organizational Culture
  • 3
  • MGT835
  • ENG930
  • Emerging Technologies in Sustainable Power
  • 4
  • ENG905
  • DIS990 — Dissertation Finalization and Defense: Candidates complete the final analysis, write the dissertation, and present a formal defense to their committee. This represents the synthesis of academic and ethical mastery. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM920 — Communication for Professional and Public Impact: Students refine their abilities to translate highly technical findings into actionable information for stakeholders. Strategies for media relations and effective public communication are taught. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT925 — Ethical Leadership and Organizational Culture: This capstone leadership course explores how to build organizations that reflect the values of integrity, stewardship, and community impact. Students reflect on their growth as scholars and leaders. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ENG930 — Emerging Technologies in Sustainable Power: This advanced seminar explores the future landscape of energy production. Students evaluate high-potential, emerging technologies for their impact on environmental resilience. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Dissertation Requirement

  • The Dissertation serves as the culminating academic achievement for the doctoral candidate, representing an original contribution to the body of knowledge in renewable energy and sustainability. Students are expected to identify a critical problem within the industry, conduct empirical research, and produce a scholarly document that demonstrates mastery of their field. The scope of the project requires both technical rigor and the application of ethical, faith-based decision-making frameworks.
  • This capstone experience emphasizes the integration of servant leadership and stewardship, as students must demonstrate how their research findings can practically serve communities and protect natural resources. Deliverables include a formal proposal, a research defense, and a final manuscript. Through this process, students display not only their technical and analytical competence but also their development as character-centered leaders who view their work as a form of stewardship.

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 total credit hours, including the 35 transfer credits and 85 institutional credits, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Candidates must successfully defend their dissertation, demonstrating an ability to synthesize advanced technical knowledge with the institution's commitment to ethical integrity and service. Students are also expected to demonstrate spiritual maturity and personal character development through participation in designated community service and institutional formation activities.
  • Beyond academic and research achievements, candidates must evidence a readiness for faith-informed service, reflecting the institution's values of community engagement and responsible stewardship. Graduation signifies that the student has attained high levels of scholarly expertise, critical thinking, and ethical discernment, preparing them to apply these qualities to the betterment of their professional fields and the global community.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Sustainability Research Consultant
  • Energy Policy Advisor for Nonprofits
  • Director of Renewable Infrastructure
  • Environmental Science Professor
  • Technical Lead for Faith-Based Humanitarian Aid
  • Community Development Energy Engineer
  • Strategic Sustainability Planner

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 Renewable Energy, Specialization in Sustainability Green Technology
  • 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 Renewable Energy and sustainability green technology specialization 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
  • RES701 | Foundations of Ethical Research | 3 | None
  • ENG705 | Advanced Renewable Energy Systems | 3 | None
  • BUS710 | Servant Leadership in Technology | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • RES720 | Quantitative Research Methods | 3 | RES701
  • ENG715 | Sustainability Green Technology Integration | 4 | ENG705
  • SOC725 | Sociology of Environmental Stewardship | 3 | None
  • THE730 | Ethical Stewardship and Sustainability | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • RES801 | Qualitative Research Methodology | 3 | RES720
  • ENG805 | Advanced Thermodynamics of Renewable Energy | 4 | ENG715
  • BUS815 | Nonprofit Resource Management | 3 | BUS710
  • ENV820 | Global Environmental Policy Analysis | 4 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • RES810 | Doctoral Seminar on Research Design | 3 | RES801
  • ENG825 | Smart Grid and Sustainable Infrastructure | 4 | ENG805
  • EDU830 | Community Education and Engagement | 3 | None
  • MGT835 | Strategic Project Implementation | 4 | BUS815
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DIS901 | Dissertation Research I | 4 | RES810
  • ENG905 | Advanced Materials for Sustainability | 4 | ENG825
  • SOC910 | Community Development and Social Equity | 3 | SOC725
  • HIS915 | History of Stewardship and Environmental Ethics | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • DIS990 | Dissertation Finalization and Defense | 4 | DIS901
  • COM920 | Communication for Professional and Public Impact | 3 | None
  • MGT925 | Ethical Leadership and Organizational Culture | 3 | MGT835
  • ENG930 | Emerging Technologies in Sustainable Power | 4 | ENG905