Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Global Health Diplomacy, Human Security

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Global Health Diplomacy, Human 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 Health Science

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze complex systemic determinants of global health using interdisciplinary research frameworks.
• Evaluate the intersection of human security, political stability, and international diplomatic health policies.
• Design rigorous academic research that addresses equitable healthcare access and systemic social challenges.
• Integrate ethical leadership principles into the development of sustainable, faith-informed global health strategies.
• Communicate evidence-based findings to diverse international stakeholders to influence health diplomacy initiatives.
• Synthesize theories of stewardship and public service to address global health disparities in under-resourced contexts.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES701
• Advanced Qualitative Research Methods
• 3
• None
• GHD705
• Foundations of Global Health Diplomacy
• 3
• None
• HUM710
• Ethics and Stewardship in Global Systems
• 3
• None
• RES701 — Advanced Qualitative Research Methods: Exploration of qualitative design, data collection strategies, and analysis techniques for doctoral-level inquiry. Focuses on inductive reasoning and thematic development in health settingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GHD705 — Foundations of Global Health Diplomacy: Examination of the historical and theoretical development of health diplomacy in international relations. Analyzes how states and non-state actors negotiate health prioritiesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• HUM710 — Ethics and Stewardship in Global Systems: Interdisciplinary exploration of ethical frameworks regarding global resource management. Emphasizes the application of moral reasoning and stewardship in policy creationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES702
• Advanced Quantitative Research Methods
• 3
• RES701
• GHD715
• Human Security and Health Vulnerability
• 3
• GHD705
• SOC720
• Global Social Policy and Justice
• 4
• None
• MGT730
• Servant Leadership in Global Health Organizations
• 3
• None
• RES702 — Advanced Quantitative Research Methods: Application of statistical models and quantitative research designs for large-scale health studies. Focuses on predictive analysis and interpretation of population dataThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GHD715 — Human Security and Health Vulnerability: Analysis of the relationship between healthcare access and population security in conflict zones. Discusses institutional responses to health crises and instabilityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC720 — Global Social Policy and Justice: Evaluation of social structures and policy initiatives aimed at addressing systemic health disparities. Incorporates themes of justice and human flourishingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MGT730 — Servant Leadership in Global Health Organizations: Exploration of leadership theories emphasizing service and community engagement. Applies leadership models to the administration of global health programsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES801
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• 4
• RES702
• GHD810
• Strategic Alliances in Diplomacy
• 3
• GHD705
• BIO820
• Epidemiological Trends and Global Security
• 3
• None
• HIS830
• Historical Perspectives on Public Health
• 3
• None
• RES801 — Dissertation Proposal Development: Systematic preparation of the dissertation proposal, including literature review and methodology selection. Requires faculty committee approval of the research planThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GHD810 — Strategic Alliances in Diplomacy: Study of coalition building and multilateral cooperation in international health. Focuses on the role of diverse stakeholders in consensus buildingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• BIO820 — Epidemiological Trends and Global Security: Investigates the role of infectious disease and non-communicable illness in national security assessments. Analyzes data-driven approaches to preventionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• HIS830 — Historical Perspectives on Public Health: An examination of key historical moments in global health and the evolution of international response institutions. Provides context for current diplomatic effortsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES805
• Advanced Data Analysis for Social Issues
• 4
• RES702
• GHD840
• Health Diplomacy in Developing Regions
• 3
• GHD705
• BUS850
• Public Health Economics and Stewardship
• 3
• None
• COU860
• Psychosocial Impacts of Global Crises
• 3
• None
• RES805 — Advanced Data Analysis for Social Issues: In-depth study of complex datasets related to public health and diplomacy. Emphasizes advanced statistical packages and interpretation for policy outputThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GHD840 — Health Diplomacy in Developing Regions: Study of specific diplomatic challenges in low-resource environments. Focuses on sustainability and community-led health solutionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• BUS850 — Public Health Economics and Stewardship: Financial analysis of global health programs with a focus on cost-effectiveness and resource management. Critiques economic models through a lens of stewardshipThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU860 — Psychosocial Impacts of Global Crises: Explores the psychological and emotional impacts of health crises and displacement on global populations. Discusses support systems and resilienceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES890
• Dissertation Research I
• 4
• RES801
• GHD870
• Advanced Seminars in Global Governance
• 3
• GHD705
• EDU880
• Public Health Policy Communication
• 3
• None
• SOC895
• Sociology of International Humanitarianism
• 3
• None
• RES890 — Dissertation Research I: Independent execution of original research as defined by the approved dissertation proposal. Involves continuous consultation with the research committeeThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GHD870 — Advanced Seminars in Global Governance: High-level examination of international governance structures and their impact on global health. Critically analyzes the effectiveness of existing treaties and agreementsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU880 — Public Health Policy Communication: Techniques for effective scholarly communication in the public domain. Focuses on drafting policy briefs and reports for governmental and NGO useThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC895 — Sociology of International Humanitarianism: This course examines the socio-political structures of international nongovernmental organizations and their role in addressing global social inequality. Students will analyze the theoretical foundations of collective action and humanitarian aid delivery in diverse cultural contexts. 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 Defense
• 6
• RES890
• CAP890
• Capstone: Ethical Stewardship Practice
• 3
• None
• GHD892
• Special Topics in Diplomacy
• 3
• None
• MGT894
• Professional Development in Global Health
• 3
• None
• RES899 — Dissertation Research II and Defense: Final phase of research completion, writing, and successful oral defense of the dissertation. Demonstrates scholarly independence and contribution to the academic fieldThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• CAP890 — Capstone: Ethical Stewardship Practice: Reflective application of program principles to a real-world community service initiative. Requires a comprehensive report on impact and professional growthThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• GHD892 — Special Topics in Diplomacy: Focused exploration of current issues in health diplomacy not covered in core coursework. Encourages depth in emerging research topicsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MGT894 — Professional Development in Global Health: Preparation for entry into high-level positions in global health leadership. Focuses on networking, ethics in practice, and professional communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Applicants must possess a conferred Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a field relevant to global health, international relations, public policy, or a related discipline, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Candidates are required to submit an academic writing sample, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining their research interests and alignment with the program’s focus on ethical stewardship and human security. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation serves as the culminating scholarly experience, requiring students to contribute original research to the field of global health diplomacy. The project must demonstrate high-level academic competence in data analysis, critical inquiry, and theoretical synthesis while addressing a specific, complex challenge in human security. The dissertation process is supervised by a faculty committee, ensuring the research aligns with established doctoral standards while fostering intellectual rigor and professional growth. Beyond technical mastery, the dissertation provides a platform for students to demonstrate their commitment to a faith-informed worldview. Students are expected to integrate principles of ethical stewardship, justice, and servant leadership into their research questions and findings. This requirement emphasizes that scholarly work should honor the dignity of the human person and contribute to the common good, ensuring that graduates emerge as both subject matter experts and ethically grounded leaders in the global health community.

• Graduation from the PhD program requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, ensuring that all rigorous academic benchmarks are met. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in their respective research areas through the successful defense and submission of their dissertation, which serves as evidence of their ability to produce original, high-quality scholarly contributions.
• In alignment with the institutional mission, graduation also necessitates evidence of character development and spiritual maturity. Students must participate in regular community engagement and service-learning initiatives, demonstrating their capacity to translate academic insights into faith-informed action. The university maintains the expectation that graduates will leave as scholars of integrity, prepared to apply their professional expertise with humility, ethical consistency, and a profound commitment to serving the needs of the global community.
• Career Opportunities
• Global Health Policy Analyst
• International Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Director
• Diplomatic Liaison for Health Initiatives
• Human Security Research Fellow
• University Faculty in Health and International Studies
• Global Health Program Administrator
• Humanitarian Aid Coordinator
• Public Policy Consultant for Global Development
• 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 Global Health Diplomacy, Human 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 global health diplomacy and human security 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 Qualitative Research Methods | 3 | None
• GHD705 | Foundations of Global Health Diplomacy | 3 | None
• HUM710 | Ethics and Stewardship in Global Systems | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES702 | Advanced Quantitative Research Methods | 3 | RES701
• GHD715 | Human Security and Health Vulnerability | 3 | GHD705
• SOC720 | Global Social Policy and Justice | 4 | None
• MGT730 | Servant Leadership in Global Health Organizations | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES801 | Dissertation Proposal Development | 4 | RES702
• GHD810 | Strategic Alliances in Diplomacy | 3 | GHD705
• BIO820 | Epidemiological Trends and Global Security | 3 | None
• HIS830 | Historical Perspectives on Public Health | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES805 | Advanced Data Analysis for Social Issues | 4 | RES702
• GHD840 | Health Diplomacy in Developing Regions | 3 | GHD705
• BUS850 | Public Health Economics and Stewardship | 3 | None
• COU860 | Psychosocial Impacts of Global Crises | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES890 | Dissertation Research I | 4 | RES801
• GHD870 | Advanced Seminars in Global Governance | 3 | GHD705
• EDU880 | Public Health Policy Communication | 3 | None
• SOC895 | Sociology of International Humanitarianism | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES899 | Dissertation Research II and Defense | 6 | RES890
• CAP890 | Capstone: Ethical Stewardship Practice | 3 | None
• GHD892 | Special Topics in Diplomacy | 3 | None
• MGT894 | Professional Development in Global Health | 3 | None