Master of Arts in International Peace & Conflict Resolution with a Minor in Christian Ministry Studies

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in International Peace & Conflict Resolution with a Minor in Christian Ministry Studies

Total program length

48 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced international peace & conflict resolution core

15 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 International Peace & Conflict Resolution with a Minor in Christian Ministry Studies prepares students to engage actively in global peacebuilding efforts, emphasizing a comprehensive understanding of conflict dynamics, resolution strategies, and the ethical underpinnings of Christian ministry. In this two-year program, students will explore critical theories, engage with real-world case studies, and develop practical skills necessary for fostering reconciliation and peace in diverse contexts. The curriculum integrates coursework on international relations, negotiation techniques, and the role of spiritual leadership in conflict resolution, thus equipping graduates for impactful careers in non-profits, government, and faith-based organizations. The program's interdisciplinary approach ensures that students not only gain academic insight but also apply their learning in settings where they can facilitate meaningful change, making them highly valuable in the workforce.

The 48-credit master's program provides advanced preparation in international peace & conflict resolution theory, human behavior, ethics, assessment awareness, research, program evaluation, crisis response, leadership, referral, and international peace & conflict resolution-support services.

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; An international peace & conflict resolution-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 48-credit requirement is an institutional academic standard that exceeds that minimum.

Program Details

• Total Credits: 48
• Duration: 2 years
• Degree Level: Master

Capstone Seminar

• 3
• None
• TS POLS 5600 — Nature of Political Inquiry: Nature of Political InquiryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• TS POLS 5615 — Qualitative Methods: Qualitative MethodsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• TS POLS 5620 — Research Design: Research DesignThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• TS IPCR 5999 — Capstone Seminar: Capstone SeminarThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Career Opportunities

• Conflict Resolution Specialist
• Peacebuilding Consultant
• International Relations Analyst
• Community Organizer
• Non-profit Program Director
• Faith-based Advocacy Coordinator
• Human Rights Officer

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 International Peace & Conflict Resolution with a Minor in Christian Ministry Studies
• Total program length | 48 graduate semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
• Advanced international peace & conflict resolution core | 15 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
• TS CMS 620 | Foundations of Christian Ministry | 3 | None
• TS CMS 621 | Biblical Perspectives on Peace & Justice | 3 | None
• TS CMS 622 | Pastoral Conflict Mediation | 3 | None
• TS CMS 623 | Theology of Reconciliation | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• TS CMS 624 | Faith-Based Peacebuilding | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5010 | Special Topics in Peace Studies | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5240 | Comparative Conflict Studies | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5300 | International Relations Proseminar | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• TS POLS 5315 | International Security | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5322 | Human Security | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5330 | International Organization & Law | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5390 | Economic Rights | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• TS POLS 5600 | Nature of Political Inquiry | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5615 | Qualitative Methods | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5620 | Research Design | 3 | None
• TS IPCR 5999 | Capstone Seminar | 3 | None