Master of Arts in Faith-Based Global Communication, Public Diplomacy

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in Faith-Based Global Communication, Public Diplomacy

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced Faith-Based Global Communication, Public Diplomacy core

27 credit hours

Research, assessment, and program evaluation

12 credit hours

Professional application and field experience

12 credit hours

Graduate capstone requirement

9 credit hours

The Master of Arts in Faith-Based Global Communication and Public Diplomacy is a rigorous interdisciplinary program designed to equip graduate students with the analytical and strategic skills necessary to navigate the complexities of international discourse. Through an integration of communication theory, political science, and ethical frameworks, the program addresses the evolving dynamics of cultural engagement in a globalized society. Students explore the intersection of international relations and intercultural messaging, preparing to facilitate constructive dialogue and cooperation across diverse geopolitical boundaries.

Students engage with curriculum that emphasizes the application of servant leadership and stewardship within global communication landscapes. The program encourages a critical examination of institutional strategies, media ethics, and collaborative diplomacy. By synthesizing professional communication expertise with a commitment to integrity and community engagement, the program produces scholars and practitioners capable of addressing international challenges through thoughtful, principled, and informed action.

The 60-credit master's program provides advanced preparation in Faith-Based Global Communication, Public Diplomacy theory, human behavior, ethics, assessment awareness, research, program evaluation, crisis response, leadership, referral, and faith-based global communication, public diplomacy-support services.

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based global communication, public diplomacy-support program; A professional training manual; A program-development and evaluation project; Another faculty-approved scholarly project.

The program is designed for completion within two academic years by students maintaining the University's prescribed full-time course load. Part-time students may require additional time.

Florida establishes a minimum of 24 semester credits beyond the bachelor's degree for a master's program. The University's 60-credit requirement is an institutional academic standard that exceeds that minimum.

Program Details

• Total Credits: 60
• Duration: 2 years
• Degree Level: Master

Capstone Project

• 4
• All Core Courses
• COM805 — Advanced Public Diplomacy Seminar: Facilitates high-level discussion on current global crises and the role of diplomacy. Integrates previously learned theory and practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM810 — Cross-Cultural Communication and Service Leadership: This course explores the interpersonal and communicative competencies required for effective engagement in international service projects and global human relations. Students develop adaptive leadership strategies to foster inclusive collaboration across diverse geographical and cultural contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS820 — Strategic Planning for Non-Profits: Provides training in visioning, mission alignment, and resource mobilization for global entities. Emphasizes outcome-based organizational growthThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• CAP899 — Capstone Project: The culminating scholarly work representing the application of all program competencies to a specialized public diplomacy topic. Includes research design, implementation, and defenseThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Thesis or Capstone Project

• The Capstone Project serves as the final, integrative experience of the graduate program, requiring students to synthesize their knowledge of global communication, public diplomacy, and ethical stewardship. This project provides a scholarly space to apply the principles of servant leadership and Christian ethics to a real-world international challenge. Students are expected to produce a high-level report or portfolio that evaluates a communication-based policy issue, proposing solutions that reflect both intellectual rigor and commitment to communal well-being.
• Weighted at 4 credit hours, the project requires the student to demonstrate spiritual maturity through a self-reflective component that connects their research to their developing identity as a global servant. The capstone integrates the student's entire course of study, demonstrating mastery in research, strategy, and cross-cultural engagement. Through the defense of their work, students reflect on how their graduate journey has fostered academic competence and shaped their dedication to serving the global community with integrity, biblical stewardship, and a coherent faith-based worldview.

Career Opportunities

• International Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Communications Officer
• Global Policy Analyst
• Diplomatic Liaison for Faith-Based Organizations
• Cross-Cultural Communications Consultant
• Higher Education International Student Advisor
• International Development Program Coordinator
• Strategic Media Relations Specialist

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 | M.A. in Faith-Based Global Communication, Public Diplomacy
• Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
• Advanced Faith-Based Global Communication, Public Diplomacy core | 27 credit hours
• Research, assessment, and program evaluation | 12 credit hours
• Professional application and field experience | 12 credit hours
• Graduate capstone requirement | 9 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM501 | Advanced Communication Theory | 4 | None
• RES505 | Research Methods for Social Sciences | 4 | None
• SOC510 | Sociology of Global Civil Society | 3 | None
• MGT520 | Principles of Servant Leadership | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM602 | Public Diplomacy and Media Strategy | 4 | COM501
• HIS615 | Globalization and International Policy | 4 | None
• SOC620 | Intercultural Engagement and Ethics | 3 | None
• POL630 | Professional Ethics in Public Policy | 4 | THE510
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM705 | Global Media Systems | 4 | COM602
• EDU710 | Instructional Design for Community Outreach | 3 | None
• BUS720 | Financial Stewardship for Global Organizations | 4 | MGT520
• SOC730 | Conflict Resolution and Peacemaking | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM805 | Advanced Public Diplomacy Seminar | 3 | COM602
• COM810 | Cross-Cultural Communication and Service Leadership | 3 | CHR630
• BUS820 | Strategic Planning for Non-Profits | 3 | BUS720
• CAP899 | Capstone Project | 4 | All Core Courses