Master of Arts in Faith-Based International Affairs Global Policy

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in Faith-Based International Affairs Global Policy

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced Faith-Based International Affairs Global Policy 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 International Affairs and Global Policy is a rigorous, interdisciplinary graduate program designed to equip scholars and practitioners for complex leadership roles in the global arena. Housed within the College of International Studies, the program integrates advanced political science, economic development, and conflict resolution with a foundational commitment to ethical leadership, human dignity, and sustainable global stewardship. Students engage in deep analysis of international structures and policy frameworks, ensuring that their professional practice is informed by both academic excellence and a robust commitment to social justice and service to the global community. The curriculum emphasizes the intersection of theory and praxis, fostering an environment where students examine global issues through a multi-faceted lens that values integrity, accountability, and the common good. By focusing on the moral dimensions of policy decisions, the program prepares graduates to navigate the challenges of international relations with discernment, empathy, and a clear sense of vocation. This approach ensures that learners develop the competencies necessary to address humanitarian needs and promote development initiatives in culturally diverse and globalized contexts.

The 60-credit master's program provides advanced preparation in faith-based international affairs global policy theory, human behavior, ethics, assessment awareness, research, program evaluation, crisis response, leadership, referral, and faith-based international affairs global policy-support services.

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based international affairs global policy-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

Thesis or Capstone Project

• The Capstone Project serves as the final, integrative milestone of the Master of Arts program. Designed as a comprehensive applied research project, students identify a critical global issue and develop a policy proposal or operational plan that addresses the challenge through the lens of ethical reasoning, stewardship, and servant leadership. This 6-credit requirement enables students to demonstrate mastery of their discipline while applying their academic knowledge to real-world scenarios. Students are expected to produce a formal written report and present their findings to faculty, showcasing their ability to think critically and propose solutions that respect both professional standards and the dignity of the individuals impacted. The project is an opportunity for students to synthesize their coursework in diplomacy, development, and ethics, ultimately demonstrating that their professional proficiency is matched by their commitment to faith-informed service and character integrity.

Career Opportunities

• International Development Consultant
• Diplomatic Liaison for Faith-Based Non-Governmental Organizations
• Global Policy Analyst
• Humanitarian Relief Program Manager
• Cross-Cultural Conflict Resolution Specialist
• Advocacy Strategist for International Human Rights
• Academic Research Associate

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 International Affairs Global Policy
• Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
• Advanced Faith-Based International Affairs Global Policy 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
• INT501 | Foundations of International Relations | 4 | None
• ETH505 | Ethical Reasoning in Global Policy | 4 | None
• RES510 | Research Methods for International Studies | 4 | None
• PUB515 | Principles of Philanthropy and Public Service | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• INT520 | International Economic Development | 4 | INT501
• INT525 | Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding | 4 | INT501
• MGT530 | Organizational Leadership in Global Contexts | 4 | None
• SOC535 | Sociology of Global Cultures | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• INT601 | Human Rights and International Law | 4 | INT501, ETH505
• INT605 | Global Environmental Policy | 4 | INT520
• COM610 | Strategic Communication for Global Advocacy | 3 | None
• RES615 | Advanced Policy Analysis | 4 | RES510
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CAP690 | International Affairs Capstone Project | 6 | RES615, completion of 54 credits
• INT650 | Contemporary Issues in Global Governance | 4 | None
• INT655 | Field Practice and Ethics Seminar | 3 | None
• BUS660 | Strategic Resource Management | 3 | None