Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Intelligence Studies, Specialization in Human Rights Security

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Intelligence Studies, Specialization in Human Rights Security

Total program length

120 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Four to six academic years, depending on approved transfer credit, enrollment status, research progress, and dissertation completion

Academic unit

HBIU College of Law and Public Policy

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze the structural complexities of global human rights security using multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of security policies through a faith-informed perspective on human dignity.
• Design advanced empirical or theoretical research projects that contribute original knowledge to the field of human rights studies.
• Demonstrate proficiency in scholarly communication by synthesizing academic literature for diverse audiences.
• Integrate principles of servant leadership and biblical stewardship into organizational policy and community advocacy.
• Interpret the intersection of international law, governance, and moral philosophy to address modern human rights challenges.
• Develop innovative strategies for conflict transformation based on ethical reasoning and human rights advocacy.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES701
• Advanced Research Methodology
• 4
• None
• HIS705
• History of Human Rights and Ethics
• 3
• None
• THE710
• Ethical Leadership in Public Policy
• 3
• None
• RES701 — Advanced Research Methodology: This course covers quantitative and qualitative methods appropriate for doctoral research in the social sciences. Students learn to design research protocols that are both methodologically sound and ethically sensitive. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS705 — History of Human Rights and Ethics: This course examines the historical development of international human rights doctrines and the philosophical traditions supporting them. It highlights the role of spiritual and ethical frameworks in shaping modern justice initiatives. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE710 — Ethical Leadership in Public Policy: This course explores the application of virtue ethics and servant leadership to public policy administration. Students assess how faith-based values inform decision-making in complex geopolitical landscapes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• CRJ720
• International Security and Human Rights
• 3
• None
• RES730
• Quantitative Analysis in Policy Studies
• 3
• RES701
• LAW740
• International Law and Human Dignity
• 3
• None
• SOC750
• Sociology of Civil Society and Organizational Change
• 3
• None
• CRJ720 — International Security and Human Rights: An analysis of the tension between state security protocols and individual human rights obligations. Students investigate how international conflicts affect vulnerable populations and the role of faith-based interventions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES730 — Quantitative Analysis in Policy Studies: This course focuses on the application of statistical methods to evaluate the effectiveness of public and nonprofit policy. Students gain skills in interpreting data to drive evidence-based advocacy strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• LAW740 — International Law and Human Dignity: A deep dive into treaties, declarations, and legal instruments protecting human rights globally. The course critiques these legal mechanisms through the lens of justice, stewardship, and ethical accountability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC750 — Sociology of Civil Society and Organizational Change: This course examines the structural evolution of non-governmental organizations and their role within broader institutional frameworks. Students analyze how social movements influence policy and organizational sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES801
• Advanced Qualitative Research
• 3
• RES701
• COM810
• Strategic Communication for Advocacy
• 3
• None
• MGT820
• Stewardship and Nonprofit Management
• 3
• None
• EDU830
• Human Rights Education and Formation
• 4
• None
• RES801 — Advanced Qualitative Research: Exploration of phenomenological and ethnographic research methods tailored for human rights inquiry. Students develop skills in interviewing, observational study, and thematic analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM810 — Strategic Communication for Advocacy: Students study the power of narrative and rhetoric in shaping public opinion and policy discourse regarding human rights. Focus is placed on developing clear, ethical messaging for organizational impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT820 — Stewardship and Nonprofit Management: This course covers the principles of financial and operational stewardship for mission-driven organizations. Students explore administrative best practices that ensure transparency and long-term organizational viability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU830 — Human Rights Education and Formation: This course analyzes curriculum and pedagogy for training communities in human rights awareness. Emphasis is placed on creating educational programs that foster empathy, justice, and character development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES840
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• 3
• RES701, RES801
• HIS850
• Comparative Global Perspectives on Human Rights Frameworks
• 3
• None
• CRJ860
• Transnational Justice and Conflict Resolution
• 3
• CRJ720
• PSY870
• Trauma-Informed Community Response
• 4
• None
• RES840 — Dissertation Proposal Development: Students work to finalize their dissertation research proposal, including the research question, literature review, and methodology. This course culminates in a formal proposal defense before the faculty committee. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS850 — Comparative Global Perspectives on Human Rights Frameworks: This course provides a cross-cultural analysis of human rights development across diverse international jurisdictions. It examines the interplay between localized legal norms and universal declarations in modern history. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CRJ860 — Transnational Justice and Conflict Resolution: Study of transitional justice mechanisms, such as truth and reconciliation commissions, in post-conflict societies. Focus includes the role of restorative justice in healing communities and restoring peace. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• PSY870 — Trauma-Informed Community Response: Investigation into the psychological impacts of rights violations and the development of effective, compassionate community support systems. Students learn to implement strategies that prioritize psychological safety and dignity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES880
• Dissertation Research I
• 4
• RES840
• MGT890
• Strategic Planning for Social Impact
• 3
• MGT820
• POL895
• Ethics of Global Governance
• 3
• None
• MIN898
• Servant Leadership and Organizational Culture
• 3
• None
• RES880 — Dissertation Research I: The first phase of primary research for the dissertation, focusing on data collection and preliminary synthesis. Students receive ongoing mentorship as they engage in the rigorous execution of their chosen methodology. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT890 — Strategic Planning for Social Impact: Focus on high-level strategic alignment within nonprofits to maximize social impact and human rights outcomes. Students analyze organizational structure and resource allocation for long-term sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• POL895 — Ethics of Global Governance: Advanced study of the moral frameworks governing international organizations and their impact on global human rights. Students critically evaluate institutional power and accountability in a globalized world. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN898 — Servant Leadership and Organizational Culture: Exploration of leadership styles that prioritize humility, stewardship, and the empowerment of others. Students assess how these styles influence organizational efficacy and moral performance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES899
• Dissertation Research II and Final Defense
• 4
• RES880
• POL897
• Integrated Analysis of International Public Policy
• 3
• None
• CAP896
• Advanced Policy Seminar
• 3
• None
• RES894
• Research Colloquium
• 3
• None
• RES899 — Dissertation Research II and Final Defense: The final stage of the doctoral journey, focusing on writing the dissertation and preparing for the oral defense. Candidates present their findings to demonstrate original contribution to the field. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• POL897 — Integrated Analysis of International Public Policy: This course explores the complexities of designing and implementing global policy initiatives within diverse socio-political environments. It emphasizes multi-disciplinary strategies for cross-border advocacy and institutional compliance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP896 — Advanced Policy Seminar: Review of current global policy trends and the identification of future research needs in human rights security. Students engage in peer-to-peer analysis of contemporary dilemmas in the field. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES894 — Research Colloquium: Students present their ongoing research projects in a formal academic setting, fostering critical dialogue and refining their contributions. This course emphasizes the collaborative nature of scholarly inquiry. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must possess a completed Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field such as law, political science, sociology, public policy, or a related discipline, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25. The application package must include a statement of purpose outlining research interests, a professional curriculum vitae, official academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a scholarly writing sample. Candidates may be interviewed to assess their academic readiness and alignment with the program’s focus on faith-informed ethical scholarship. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation represents the culminating academic achievement of the PhD program, requiring the student to conduct original, significant research that advances the knowledge base in the field of human rights security. Students work under the guidance of a faculty advisor to design, execute, and defend a comprehensive scholarly work that integrates critical analysis with ethical, faith-based perspectives. The scope of the research must address a contemporary human rights challenge, applying rigorous methodology to propose actionable solutions that uphold the dignity and stewardship of human life. Beyond demonstrating technical research proficiency, the dissertation serves as a testament to the candidate's development as an ethical scholar and servant leader. Throughout the project, candidates must articulate how their work is informed by a commitment to spiritual integrity and the application of moral philosophy to public policy. The final defense requires the candidate to demonstrate not only academic expertise but also the capacity to translate complex findings into a framework that supports the mission of faith-based organizations dedicated to justice and community stability.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, ensuring that each student maintains the high academic standards expected of doctoral-level study. In addition to coursework, students must pass comprehensive examinations and receive final approval of their dissertation from their faculty committee. Academic achievement is inseparable from the university's commitment to spiritual formation, and students are expected to maintain professional integrity and exemplify the virtues of servant leadership throughout their residency.
• Students are required to demonstrate active participation in the university's community life, which may include engagement in spiritual development activities and documented community service hours. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only technically prepared but are also spiritually mature and ethically grounded. Upon successful completion of all academic and formation requirements, graduates are prepared to serve as faith-informed leaders who embody the university's mission of integrity, stewardship, and active engagement in their professional and community spheres.
• Career Opportunities
• Human Rights Policy Analyst
• Faith-Based NGO Executive Director
• Global Security Consultant
• University Professor of Human Rights
• International Development Specialist
• Advocacy Strategist for Nonprofits
• Government Liaison for Humanitarian Affairs
• 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 | Ph.D. in Faith-Based Intelligence Studies, Specialization in Human Rights Security
• Total program length | 120 semester credit hours
• Maximum approved transfer credit | Up to 40 semester credit hours
• Minimum credits completed through the University after maximum transfer | 80 semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Four to six academic years, depending on approved transfer credit, enrollment status, research progress, and dissertation completion
• Advanced faith-based intelligence theory and specialization | 30 credit hours
• Research methods, statistics, and scholarly inquiry | 24 credit hours
• Professional leadership and higher-education teaching | 15 credit hours
• Advanced electives and concentration courses | 18 credit hours
• Scholarly writing and publication | 9 credit hours
• Comprehensive examination and doctoral candidacy | 6 credit hours
• Dissertation research and defense | 18 credit hours
• Total | 120 semester credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES701 | Advanced Research Methodology | 4 | None
• HIS705 | History of Human Rights and Ethics | 3 | None
• THE710 | Ethical Leadership in Public Policy | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• CRJ720 | International Security and Human Rights | 3 | None
• RES730 | Quantitative Analysis in Policy Studies | 3 | RES701
• LAW740 | International Law and Human Dignity | 3 | None
• SOC750 | Sociology of Civil Society and Organizational Change | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES801 | Advanced Qualitative Research | 3 | RES701
• COM810 | Strategic Communication for Advocacy | 3 | None
• MGT820 | Stewardship and Nonprofit Management | 3 | None
• EDU830 | Human Rights Education and Formation | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES840 | Dissertation Proposal Development | 3 | RES701, RES801
• HIS850 | Comparative Global Perspectives on Human Rights Frameworks | 3 | None
• CRJ860 | Transnational Justice and Conflict Resolution | 3 | CRJ720
• PSY870 | Trauma-Informed Community Response | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES880 | Dissertation Research I | 4 | RES840
• MGT890 | Strategic Planning for Social Impact | 3 | MGT820
• POL895 | Ethics of Global Governance | 3 | None
• MIN898 | Servant Leadership and Organizational Culture | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES899 | Dissertation Research II and Final Defense | 4 | RES880
• POL897 | Integrated Analysis of International Public Policy | 3 | None
• CAP896 | Advanced Policy Seminar | 3 | None
• RES894 | Research Colloquium | 3 | None