Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Theatre Arts, Specialization in Performing Arts Community Engagement

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Theatre Arts

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 Arts and Humanities

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze historical and contemporary theatre theories through an interdisciplinary lens.
• Evaluate the impact of performing arts programming on community wellbeing and cultural development.
• Design rigorous, original research that addresses critical challenges in community-engaged arts.
• Apply ethical leadership models to the management and development of nonprofit performing arts organizations.
• Integrate Christian theological perspectives with social science methodologies to interpret community needs.
• Communicate complex academic and artistic findings to both scholarly and public audiences.
• Develop sustainable models for arts-based stewardship that reflect values of integrity and service.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THE701
• Advanced Theatre Theory
• 3
• None
• RES705
• Qualitative Research Methods
• 3
• None
• MGT710
• Nonprofit Organizational Stewardship
• 3
• None
• THE701 — Advanced Theatre Theory: An in-depth study of historical and modern dramatic theory through an analytical lens. Students evaluate the role of narrative in shaping communal identity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES705 — Qualitative Research Methods: Examination of qualitative research design, including ethnography and phenomenological approaches in the arts. Students apply research strategies to identify community needs. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT710 — Nonprofit Organizational Stewardship: Instruction on the management of arts-based nonprofits, focusing on financial integrity, board governance, and donor relations. The course emphasizes servant leadership in administrative roles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THE720
• Community Performance Practices
• 4
• THE701
• RES715
• Quantitative Data Analysis
• 4
• RES705
• HUM730
• Ethics in Public Performance
• 3
• None
• COM740
• Advanced Strategic Communication
• 3
• None
• THE720 — Community Performance Practices: Exploration of participatory theatre models designed to foster social dialogue. Students analyze the impact of arts engagement on local populations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES715 — Quantitative Data Analysis: Advanced training in statistical methodologies and data visualization for social science research. Emphasis is placed on reporting findings accurately for organizational growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM730 — Ethics in Public Performance: Analysis of moral responsibility in public performance and artistic expression. Students interpret the intersection of personal virtue and community service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM740 — Advanced Strategic Communication: Development of skills for crafting compelling narratives in support of organizational goals. Students apply communication strategies for diverse audiences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THE805
• Pedagogy and Arts Leadership
• 3
• None
• SOC810
• Sociology of the Arts
• 3
• None
• MGT820
• Strategic Arts Management
• 4
• MGT710
• RES830
• Advanced Research Proposal Seminar
• 4
• RES715
• THE805 — Pedagogy and Arts Leadership: Study of instructional design and leadership development within the performing arts. Focuses on training future practitioners in ethical engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC810 — Sociology of the Arts: Interdisciplinary inquiry into the relationship between artistic creation and social structures. Students evaluate how arts influence societal change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT820 — Strategic Arts Management: Strategic planning and capacity building for arts organizations. Covers resource management and sustainable business models for non-profit entities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES830 — Advanced Research Proposal Seminar: Facilitated seminar for the development of a dissertation research proposal. Focuses on feasibility, methodology, and academic rigor. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THE840
• Drama for Conflict Transformation
• 3
• THE720
• HIS850
• History of Socially Engaged Art
• 3
• None
• SOC860
• Sociology of Service and Community Development
• 3
• None
• RES870
• Independent Research Study
• 4
• RES830
• THE840 — Drama for Conflict Transformation: Practical application of theatrical techniques in resolving community disputes and promoting reconciliation. Students design interventions for community harmony. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS850 — History of Socially Engaged Art: Critical survey of the history of arts used for community and social benefit. Students analyze shifts in artistic purpose over time. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC860 — Sociology of Service and Community Development: This course examines the socio-economic impact of volunteerism and civic engagement on local community development. Students analyze theories of social capital and public service delivery models in diverse institutional settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES870 — Independent Research Study: Guided research project aimed at refining the dissertation topic. Focuses on data collection and initial analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• THE880
• Aesthetics and Community Value
• 3
• None
• MGT890
• Leadership in Diverse Environments
• 3
• MGT820
• DIS895
• Dissertation Development I
• 6
• RES870
• CHR898
• Professional Formation and Ethics
• 3
• None
• THE880 — Aesthetics and Community Value: Examination of how aesthetic experiences contribute to personal and communal health. Students evaluate the value of art beyond traditional entertainment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT890 — Leadership in Diverse Environments: Leadership training centered on cultural competence and inclusion. Encourages students to cultivate environments of respect and growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• DIS895 — Dissertation Development I: Initial phases of dissertation writing, focusing on synthesis of findings and structuring arguments. Emphasis on academic precision and integration of research. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CHR898 — Professional Formation and Ethics: Reflective course on the integration of faith, integrity, and career practice. Focuses on maintaining high ethical standards in professional settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS900
• Dissertation Development II
• 6
• DIS895
• DIS901
• Dissertation Defense
• 3
• DIS900
• CAP899
• Capstone Portfolio Synthesis
• 3
• None
• THE897
• Special Topics in Community Arts
• 3
• None
• DIS900 — Dissertation Development II: Completion of the dissertation writing process, including final reviews and committee defense preparation. Final delivery of research findings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• DIS901 — Dissertation Defense: Final presentation and defense of the doctoral research before a faculty committee. Demonstration of scholarly mastery and field contribution. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP899 — Capstone Portfolio Synthesis: Synthesis of academic coursework, service experiences, and research findings into a career-ready portfolio. Focuses on future professional impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE897 — Special Topics in Community Arts: Seminar on emerging trends in community arts and performance. Students synthesize knowledge to discuss future field directions. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must hold a master's degree from an accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Required documentation includes official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and personal commitment to faith-based stewardship, a scholarly writing sample, and three letters of recommendation that speak to the candidate's academic aptitude and potential for servant leadership. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation represents the pinnacle of the doctoral experience, requiring students to execute an original, substantive research project that contributes significantly to the field of community-engaged theatre. Candidates are tasked with identifying a specific community-based challenge, conducting exhaustive literature reviews, and applying qualitative or quantitative methodologies to propose evidence-based solutions that reflect a commitment to ethical service and stewardship. This 12-credit capstone ensures that students not only demonstrate mastery of their disciplinary subject matter but also articulate how their findings promote the flourishing of individuals and communities within a faith-based framework. Throughout the dissertation process, students integrate Christian worldview principles, demonstrating how their research reflects academic competence alongside a deep commitment to social responsibility and character development. The final product must demonstrate the scholar’s ability to synthesize high-level theoretical research with the practical realities of non-profit community engagement, ultimately proving that their work aligns with the institution's values of professional integrity, spiritual formation, and purposeful leadership.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of all 120 credit hours, including the dissertation, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. In addition to academic coursework, students must fulfill program-specific requirements related to spiritual formation, including the completion of documented community service hours and ongoing engagement in faculty-mentored character development seminars, which reinforce the integration of professional ethics with personal integrity.
• The university recognizes that academic achievement is inseparable from the student’s growth in professional maturity and servant leadership. Candidates must successfully defend their dissertation before a faculty committee, illustrating that they have attained both the technical expertise required for their field and the moral foundation necessary for ethical, faith-informed service. Graduates are expected to demonstrate readiness to enter their professional fields as leaders who operate from a place of conviction, wisdom, and sacrificial service to their communities.
• Career Opportunities
• University Professor of Theatre and Arts Administration
• Director of Community Arts Engagement for Nonprofit Organizations
• Executive Director of Faith-Based Performing Arts Centers
• Arts Policy Consultant for Public and Private Institutions
• Director of Educational Outreach for Theatrical Companies
• Researcher in Cultural Policy and Social Impact
• Nonprofit Development Officer for Community Foundations
• 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 Theatre Arts
• 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 theatre arts 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
• THE701 | Advanced Theatre Theory | 3 | None
• RES705 | Qualitative Research Methods | 3 | None
• MGT710 | Nonprofit Organizational Stewardship | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THE720 | Community Performance Practices | 4 | THE701
• RES715 | Quantitative Data Analysis | 4 | RES705
• HUM730 | Ethics in Public Performance | 3 | None
• COM740 | Advanced Strategic Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THE805 | Pedagogy and Arts Leadership | 3 | None
• SOC810 | Sociology of the Arts | 3 | None
• MGT820 | Strategic Arts Management | 4 | MGT710
• RES830 | Advanced Research Proposal Seminar | 4 | RES715
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THE840 | Drama for Conflict Transformation | 3 | THE720
• HIS850 | History of Socially Engaged Art | 3 | None
• SOC860 | Sociology of Service and Community Development | 3 | None
• RES870 | Independent Research Study | 4 | RES830
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• THE880 | Aesthetics and Community Value | 3 | None
• MGT890 | Leadership in Diverse Environments | 3 | MGT820
• DIS895 | Dissertation Development I | 6 | RES870
• CHR898 | Professional Formation and Ethics | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS900 | Dissertation Development II | 6 | DIS895
• DIS901 | Dissertation Defense | 3 | DIS900
• CAP899 | Capstone Portfolio Synthesis | 3 | None
• THE897 | Special Topics in Community Arts | 3 | None