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Master of Arts in Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy

Academic unitHBIU College of International StudiesTotal credits60Estimated duration2 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Advanced Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy 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 Arts in Faith-Based Global Communication and Public Diplomacy is a specialized graduate program designed to equip scholars and practitioners with the theoretical and practical competencies necessary to navigate the complexities of international public relations and cross-cultural discourse. The curriculum balances rigorous communication theory with the application of ethical leadership, stewardship, and servant-oriented engagement in global settings. By examining the intersection of media, diplomacy, and societal values, students gain a sophisticated understanding of how communication strategies shape perceptions and facilitate bridge-building across diverse international landscapes. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating organizational management, interpersonal communication, and sociopolitical analysis within a framework of rigorous academic inquiry. Students are challenged to develop strategic initiatives that honor the dignity of the human person while addressing the challenges of globalization through the lens of moral integrity and community-oriented service.

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

The graduate capstone may include: An applied research study; A community needs assessment; A faith-based global communication public diplomacy-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.A. in Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy
Total program length
60 graduate semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Two academic years of full-time study
Academic unit
HBIU College of International Studies
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze complex global communication challenges through the application of advanced rhetorical and public diplomacy theories.
  • Evaluate the ethical dimensions of cross-cultural communication strategies within diverse socio-political and global contexts.
  • Develop strategic public relations frameworks that demonstrate principles of servant leadership and stewardship.
  • Integrate Christian worldview perspectives into the professional practice of international negotiation and diplomacy.
  • Demonstrate advanced scholarly research skills by designing and executing an original investigation into contemporary global communication phenomena.
  • Communicate professional research findings effectively to scholarly and lay audiences through formal academic writing and presentation.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM500
  • Advanced Global Communication Theory
  • 4
  • None
  • RES505
  • Research Methods for Social Inquiry
  • 4
  • None
  • THE510
  • Foundations of Ethical Diplomacy
  • 4
  • None
  • MGT515
  • Strategic Leadership and Stewardship
  • 3
  • None
  • COM500 — Advanced Global Communication Theory: Examines core theories governing global discourse and media influence. Students analyze the mechanisms by which information shapes public sentiment across cultural dividesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES505 — Research Methods for Social Inquiry: Provides an overview of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Emphasis is placed on the ethical collection and interpretation of data in global environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • THE510 — Foundations of Ethical Diplomacy: Explores the intersection of moral philosophy and public diplomacy. Analyzes the role of servant leadership in managing international relations and conflict resolutionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MGT515 — Strategic Leadership and Stewardship: Focuses on management principles that prioritize institutional health and social responsibility. Students learn to steward organizational resources toward public goodThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM520
  • Media and International Relations
  • 4
  • COM500
  • HIS525
  • Globalization and Cultural History
  • 4
  • None
  • COM530
  • Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies
  • 4
  • COM500
  • RES535
  • Advanced Academic Writing and Synthesis
  • 3
  • RES505
  • COM520 — Media and International Relations: Investigates the role of mass media and social platforms in modern public diplomacy. Critically assesses the impact of framing and messaging on foreign policy perceptionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS525 — Globalization and Cultural History: Traces the historical developments of global integration and its impact on diverse belief systems. Analyzes how historical narratives influence contemporary diplomatic interactionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM530 — Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies: Develops competencies in navigating diverse linguistic and cultural contexts. Focuses on the application of active listening and cultural intelligence in diplomacyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • RES535 — Advanced Academic Writing and Synthesis: Refines the ability to construct scholarly arguments that synthesize academic research and moral reasoning. Prepares students for their final thesis researchThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM600
  • Public Diplomacy in Emerging Markets
  • 4
  • COM520
  • BUS605
  • Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
  • 4
  • THE510
  • COM610
  • Crisis Management and Public Perception
  • 4
  • COM500
  • SOC615
  • Social Innovation and Global Service Learning
  • 3
  • None
  • COM600 — Public Diplomacy in Emerging Markets: Analyzes communication needs and public diplomacy strategies within emerging international economies. Focuses on social development and community engagementThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • BUS605 — Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: Teaches evidence-based techniques for mediating international disputes. Emphasizes the role of empathy and integrity in establishing sustainable agreementsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM610 — Crisis Management and Public Perception: Examines communication strategies during international crises. Students learn to maintain truthfulness and stability while navigating volatile information environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC615 — Social Innovation and Global Service Learning: This course examines the role of nonprofit social enterprises and volunteerism in addressing systemic global challenges. Students analyze organizational models and service-learning frameworks to foster sustainable community impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM620
  • Current Issues in Global Policy
  • 3
  • COM520
  • MGT625
  • Program Development for International Outreach
  • 3
  • MGT515
  • CAP650
  • Capstone Thesis Project
  • 4
  • RES535
  • COM630
  • Seminar in Professional Diplomacy
  • 3
  • Completion of 45 credits
  • COM620 — Current Issues in Global Policy: Critiques contemporary geopolitical policy initiatives. Encourages students to apply their communication expertise to real-world policy dilemmasThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MGT625 — Program Development for International Outreach: Guides the design of outreach initiatives that prioritize community needs. Focuses on project lifecycle management from conception to implementationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CAP650 — Capstone Thesis Project: The culminating scholarly work where students conduct independent research on a global issue. Students synthesize academic and moral perspectives into a formal thesisThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • COM630 — Seminar in Professional Diplomacy: A capstone seminar focused on the practical application of diplomacy skills. Students reflect on their growth in ethical leadership and prepare for post-graduate serviceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Candidates are required to submit official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining their professional goals and alignment with the program's values, two professional or academic letters of recommendation, and a writing sample demonstrating graduate-level analytical capacity. Thesis or Capstone Project The Master of Arts in Faith-Based Global Communication and Public Diplomacy culminates in a comprehensive Thesis Project, providing students the opportunity to synthesize their research, ethical reasoning, and academic development. This project serves as a scholarly contribution to the field, requiring the student to identify a specific global communication issue and apply rigorous analytical methodologies to propose evidence-based solutions that reflect a commitment to human flourishing and ethical stewardship. Students are expected to demonstrate how their proposed initiatives honor the principles of servant leadership and address the complexities of modern diplomacy with integrity and intellectual humility. The project is weighted at 4 credit hours and requires the completion of a substantial research manuscript and a formal defense before a faculty committee. Throughout the research process, students integrate their spiritual formation and Christian worldview into the evaluation of their findings, articulating how their academic work fosters responsible engagement with global communities. This culminating experience serves as a testament to the student's mastery of the discipline and their readiness to serve as a morally grounded practitioner in the international public arena.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To qualify for the degree, students must complete the 60-credit hour curriculum with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. This academic achievement must be matched by a commitment to spiritual and ethical integrity, evidenced by the successful completion of all core competencies and the Final Thesis Project. Students are expected to engage in consistent community service and participate in institutional faith-based formation activities, which reinforce the connection between academic training and character development.
  • Graduation is contingent upon the successful defense of the Thesis Project and the demonstration of professional conduct that reflects the institution’s values. Beyond academic mastery, candidates must exhibit readiness for faith-informed service, showing an ability to apply critical thought, moral wisdom, and compassionate action to the challenges facing contemporary society. Fulfillment of these requirements ensures that the graduate is academically prepared and spiritually poised to contribute meaningfully to the common good.
  • Career Opportunities
  • International Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Communications Director
  • Diplomatic Attaché for Public Affairs
  • Global Media Consultant
  • Cross-Cultural Relations Specialist
  • International Advocacy Strategist
  • Policy Analyst for Faith-Based Public Initiatives
  • Global Communications Faculty
  • 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 Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy
  • Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
  • Advanced Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy 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
  • COM500 | Advanced Global Communication Theory | 4 | None
  • RES505 | Research Methods for Social Inquiry | 4 | None
  • THE510 | Foundations of Ethical Diplomacy | 4 | None
  • MGT515 | Strategic Leadership and Stewardship | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM520 | Media and International Relations | 4 | COM500
  • HIS525 | Globalization and Cultural History | 4 | None
  • COM530 | Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies | 4 | COM500
  • RES535 | Advanced Academic Writing and Synthesis | 3 | RES505
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM600 | Public Diplomacy in Emerging Markets | 4 | COM520
  • BUS605 | Conflict Resolution and Negotiation | 4 | THE510
  • COM610 | Crisis Management and Public Perception | 4 | COM500
  • SOC615 | Social Innovation and Global Service Learning | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM620 | Current Issues in Global Policy | 3 | COM520
  • MGT625 | Program Development for International Outreach | 3 | MGT515
  • CAP650 | Capstone Thesis Project | 4 | RES535
  • COM630 | Seminar in Professional Diplomacy | 3 | Completion of 45 credits

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • International Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Communications Director
  • Diplomatic Attaché for Public Affairs
  • Global Media Consultant
  • Cross-Cultural Relations Specialist
  • International Advocacy Strategist
  • Policy Analyst for Faith-Based Public Initiatives
  • Global Communications Faculty

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.A. in Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy
  • Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
  • Advanced Faith-Based Global Communication Public Diplomacy 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
  • COM500 | Advanced Global Communication Theory | 4 | None
  • RES505 | Research Methods for Social Inquiry | 4 | None
  • THE510 | Foundations of Ethical Diplomacy | 4 | None
  • MGT515 | Strategic Leadership and Stewardship | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM520 | Media and International Relations | 4 | COM500
  • HIS525 | Globalization and Cultural History | 4 | None
  • COM530 | Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies | 4 | COM500
  • RES535 | Advanced Academic Writing and Synthesis | 3 | RES505
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM600 | Public Diplomacy in Emerging Markets | 4 | COM520
  • BUS605 | Conflict Resolution and Negotiation | 4 | THE510
  • COM610 | Crisis Management and Public Perception | 4 | COM500
  • SOC615 | Social Innovation and Global Service Learning | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • COM620 | Current Issues in Global Policy | 3 | COM520
  • MGT625 | Program Development for International Outreach | 3 | MGT515
  • CAP650 | Capstone Thesis Project | 4 | RES535
  • COM630 | Seminar in Professional Diplomacy | 3 | Completion of 45 credits