Master of Arts in Faith-Based Public Relations, Specialization in Advocacy Media Outreach

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in Faith-Based Public Relations

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced Faith-Based Public Relations 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 in Public Relations, with a Minor in Faith-Based Advocacy and Media Outreach, is tailored for individuals seeking to advance their careers in communication and advocacy. This program equips students with a deep understanding of public relations strategies, campaign planning, and media relations while emphasizing the integration of faith-based perspectives in advocacy work. Students will learn to craft compelling narratives, engage diverse audiences, and leverage media platforms to promote their causes effectively. Graduates will emerge with the skills to manage public image, influence policy, and drive community engagement, all while being grounded in ethical practices and social responsibility. This unique blend of public relations and faith-based outreach makes the program a valuable asset for those looking to make a meaningful impact in nonprofit organizations, religious institutions, and community initiatives.

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

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based public relations-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

Career Opportunities

• Public Relations Specialist
• Faith-Based Advocacy Director
• Communications Manager for Nonprofits
• Media Relations Coordinator
• Community Outreach Director
• Social Media Strategist for Religious Organizations
• Advocacy Campaign Manager

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 Public Relations
• Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
• Advanced Faith-Based Public Relations 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
• PRM 601 | Foundations of Strategic Public Relations | 3 | None
• PRM 602 | Public Relations Writing & Message Design | 3 | None
• PRM 603 | Communication Ethics, Law & Regulation | 3 | None
• PRM 604 | Digital & Social Media Strategy for PR | 3 | None
• PRM 611 | Research Methods for PR & Strategic Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PRM 612 | Audience Insight & Consumer Behavior for Communicators | 3 | None
• PRM 613 | Media Relations & Cross-Platform Storytelling | 3 | None
• PRM 614 | Strategic Campaign Planning & Execution | 3 | None
• PRM 621 | Crisis Management & Reputation Leadership | 3 | None
• PRM 622 | Integrated Marketing Communications Strategy | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PRM 623 | Analytics & Measurement for Communication Impact | 3 | None
• PRM 624 | Diversity, Culture & Inclusive Public Communication | 3 | None
• FAM 631 | Faith-Based Advocacy: Theology, Ethics & Public Witness | 3 | None
• PRM 631 | Public Affairs, Government & Community Relations | 3 | None
• FAM 632 | Media Outreach for Faith Communities: Strategy & Engagement | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• PRM 632 | Corporate Communication & Stakeholder Management | 3 | None
• FAM 641 | Strategic Advocacy Campaigns for Social Impact | 3 | None
• FAM 642 | Crisis & Care Communication in Ministry and Community Contexts | 3 | None
• FAM 643 | Digital Evangelism, Content Creation & Platform Leadership | 3 | None
• PRM 690 | PR Capstone: Strategic Case Study / Professional Project | 3 | None