Master of Science in Faith-Based Sustainable International Development, Specialization in Development Social Ethics

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.S. in Faith-Based Sustainable International Development

Total program length

48 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced Faith-Based Sustainable International Development 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 Science in Sustainable International Development with a Minor in Faith-Based Development & Social Ethics offers students an in-depth understanding of sustainable development practices that integrate social ethics and faith-based perspectives. Over four years, learners will explore global development issues, ethical frameworks, and practical approaches to community engagement. This program prepares graduates for impactful careers by equipping them with the skills to devise innovative solutions to complex challenges, advocate for social justice, and promote sustainable practices in various contexts. Moreover, the minor in Faith-Based Development adds a unique dimension, emphasizing the role of faith in social change and ethical considerations in development work. Students will engage in hands-on projects, internships, and collaborative learning experiences, fostering skills in critical thinking, communication, and leadership.

The 48-credit master's program provides advanced preparation in faith-based sustainable international development theory, human behavior, ethics, assessment awareness, research, program evaluation, crisis response, leadership, referral, and faith-based sustainable international development-support services.

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based sustainable international development-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: 4 years
• Degree Level: Master

Capstone Seminar

• 3
• None
• TS GEOG 5540 — Renewable Energy & Society: Renewable Energy & SocietyThis 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 HRTS 5899 — Human Rights Seminar: Human Rights SeminarThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• TS SID 5999 — Capstone Seminar: Capstone SeminarThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Career Opportunities

• International Development Consultant
• Program Manager for NGOs
• Community Development Specialist
• Ethics Coordinator in Faith-Based Organizations
• Sustainability Officer in Corporations
• Policy Analyst for Government Agencies
• Researcher in Development Studies

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.S. in Faith-Based Sustainable International Development
• Total program length | 48 graduate semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
• Advanced Faith-Based Sustainable International Development 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 DEV 650 | Faith & International Development | 3 | None
• TS ETH 651 | Ethics of Poverty & Development | 3 | None
• TS REL 652 | Religion & Community Transformation | 3 | None
• TS DEV 653 | NGOs & Social Impact | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• TS ETH 654 | Sustainable Development Ethics | 3 | None
• TS INTS 5000 | International Development Seminar | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5010 | Development Policy Topics | 3 | None
• TS NRE 5150 | Ecosystem Management | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• TS POLS 5240 | Comparative Development Policy | 3 | None
• TS ECON 5360 | Development Economics | 3 | None
• TS PUBH 5411 | Global Development Practice | 3 | None
• TS PUBH 5414 | Health Economics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• TS GEOG 5540 | Renewable Energy & Society | 3 | None
• TS POLS 5620 | Research Design | 3 | None
• TS HRTS 5899 | Human Rights Seminar | 3 | None
• TS SID 5999 | Capstone Seminar | 3 | None