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Masters of Science in Faith-Based Education Specialization in STEM Education

Academic unitCollege of Education and Human DevelopmentTotal credits60Estimated duration2 yearsSource documentMasters_of_Science_in_Faith_Based_Education_Specialization_in_STEM_Education.docx

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.S. in Faith-Based Education Specialization in STEM Education

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced STEM-integrated educational 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 Science in Faith-Based Education with a Specialization in STEM Education is an advanced graduate program designed for educators who seek to integrate rigorous scientific and technological pedagogical strategies within an ethical and community-centered framework. This program emphasizes the development of instructional leadership, reflective practice, and the application of STEM methodologies to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills in diverse educational environments. Students engage in a curriculum that balances theoretical foundations of pedagogy with practical field applications, ensuring that graduates are prepared to serve as stewards of intellectual and character development in their learning communities. Throughout the curriculum, students explore the intersection of modern scientific advancement and the commitment to servant leadership, promoting an educational approach that prioritizes student growth and societal well-being. The program provides a robust intellectual foundation that prepares graduates to navigate the complexities of modern classrooms while maintaining a focus on high-impact instructional practices and professional excellence.

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

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based education specialization in STEM education-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 Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
M.S. in Faith-Based Education Specialization in STEM Education
Total program length
60 graduate semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Two academic years of full-time study
Academic unit
College of Education and Human Development
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze contemporary trends and pedagogical frameworks in STEM education to inform instructional design.
  • Evaluate the ethical implications of technological integration within various classroom environments.
  • Design rigorous, inquiry-based STEM lesson plans that adhere to national and professional standards.
  • Demonstrate the capacity for servant leadership through the implementation of collaborative and inclusive educational projects.
  • Apply research-based methodologies to assess student performance and improve instructional outcomes.
  • Integrate stewardship principles into educational practice to manage resources effectively and promote equitable learning opportunities.
  • Communicate complex technical concepts to diverse student populations using accessible and engaging pedagogical strategies.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. Candidates must submit official transcripts, a professional statement of purpose outlining their career goals and commitment to educational excellence, two letters of professional or academic recommendation, and a current curriculum vitae. Proficiency in mathematics or science coursework at the undergraduate level is highly recommended to ensure success in the specialized STEM components of the program.

Program Structure

Official program structure

Program Details

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

Semester-by-Semester Curriculum

Official course sequence

Year 1

Semester 1

15 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU501Foundations of Educational Theory4None
View Description

This course examines the historical and philosophical foundations of educational thought. Students analyze how theoretical frameworks inform current practices in diverse institutional settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU510Ethical Leadership in Education4None
View Description

This course explores the role of the educator as a servant leader within the school community. Students evaluate case studies related to ethical decision-making and administrative stewardshipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

RES500Research Methods in Education4None
View Description

Students investigate quantitative and qualitative research designs applicable to educational settings. The course prepares students to identify problems and develop systematic approaches to inquiryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

MAT520Advanced Mathematical Applications3None
View Description

This course covers advanced mathematical concepts necessary for teaching middle and secondary STEM curricula. Emphasis is placed on real-world problem solving and logical reasoningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 2

15 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
EDU550STEM Instructional Strategies4EDU501
View Description

This course focuses on inquiry-based learning techniques specific to STEM disciplines. Participants design lessons that utilize hands-on experiments and technology to drive student engagementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

BIO530Modern Biological Sciences for Educators4None
View Description

A review of current developments in biological research and their integration into the classroom. Students synthesize complex biological data for educational deliveryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU560Assessment and Evaluation in STEM4RES500
View Description

Students analyze data-driven assessment practices to evaluate student progress. Topics include diagnostic testing, formative assessment, and performance-based evaluationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU515Inclusive Learning Environments3None
View Description

This course examines strategies for creating inclusive classroom communities that serve diverse learners. Emphasis is placed on adaptive teaching and differentiated instructionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Semester 3

15 credits
CodeCourse TitleCreditsPrerequisite
TEC600Educational Technology and Innovation4EDU550
View Description

Students evaluate emerging technologies to determine their potential for enhancing STEM literacy. The course covers digital tools for modeling and simulation in the classroomThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU610STEM Curriculum Design4EDU550
View Description

Advanced exploration of curricula development for STEM programs across varied levels of secondary education. Students construct a comprehensive, interdisciplinary unit of studyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

EDU620Community Engagement in STEM4EDU510
View Description

This course explores the connection between STEM education and community needs. Students develop service-oriented partnerships to enhance student learning beyond the classroomThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

RES610Advanced Data Analysis for Educators3RES500
View Description

Building on foundational research methods, this course focuses on statistical tools and data visualization techniques. Students interpret data sets to improve teaching practicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Final Project Requirement

Final project requirement

Capstone: STEM Leadership Project

  • 4
  • All Core and Required Courses
  • EDU650
  • Professionalism and Policy in Education
  • 4
  • None
  • EDU660
  • Reflective Practice and Mentorship
  • 3
  • None
  • EDU670
  • Global Perspectives on STEM
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP690 — Capstone: STEM Leadership Project: Students demonstrate mastery by completing a major project involving the implementation of a STEM initiative. The project requires integration of research, leadership, and pedagogyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU650 — Professionalism and Policy in Education: An analysis of the policies and professional standards governing current educational practices. Students evaluate the impact of policy on local and regional STEM initiativesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU660 — Reflective Practice and Mentorship: Participants engage in peer mentorship and self-reflection to facilitate continuous professional growth. The course emphasizes the development of personal pedagogical philosophyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • EDU670 — Global Perspectives on STEM: A comparative look at international STEM educational models and their success in different socio-economic contexts. Students analyze best practices for a globalized worldThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • STEM Curriculum Coordinator
  • Educational Program Administrator
  • Instructional Designer for Science Education
  • Professional Development Specialist
  • Educational Researcher
  • Community Educational Program Manager
  • Academic Technology Integration Specialist

Additional Official Information

Additional source information

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 Education Specialization in STEM Education
  • Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
  • Advanced STEM-integrated educational 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
  • EDU501 | Foundations of Educational Theory | 4 | None
  • EDU510 | Ethical Leadership in Education | 4 | None
  • RES500 | Research Methods in Education | 4 | None
  • MAT520 | Advanced Mathematical Applications | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • EDU550 | STEM Instructional Strategies | 4 | EDU501
  • BIO530 | Modern Biological Sciences for Educators | 4 | None
  • EDU560 | Assessment and Evaluation in STEM | 4 | RES500
  • EDU515 | Inclusive Learning Environments | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • TEC600 | Educational Technology and Innovation | 4 | EDU550
  • EDU610 | STEM Curriculum Design | 4 | EDU550
  • EDU620 | Community Engagement in STEM | 4 | EDU510
  • RES610 | Advanced Data Analysis for Educators | 3 | RES500
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP690 | Capstone: STEM Leadership Project | 4 | All Core and Required Courses
  • EDU650 | Professionalism and Policy in Education | 4 | None
  • EDU660 | Reflective Practice and Mentorship | 3 | None
  • EDU670 | Global Perspectives on STEM | 3 | None