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Associate of Arts in International Diplomacy Minor: Christian Studies

Academic unitHBIU College of International StudiesTotal credits72Estimated duration2 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in International Diplomacy

Total program length

72 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

International Diplomacy core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

Christian Studies minor

12 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in International Diplomacy with a minor in Christian Studies offers students a foundational understanding of global relations, negotiation strategies, and diplomatic practices, infused with ethical frameworks based on Christian values. Throughout this 2-year program, students will engage with critical international issues, develop analytical skills, and enhance their communication abilities. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a range of careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and related fields, equipping them with the knowledge to navigate complex cultural landscapes and contribute positively to global peace and reconciliation. Graduates will emerge with a robust understanding of both secular and faith-based contexts in international relations, making them competitive candidates for careers that require adept negotiation and interpersonal skills.

Associate of Arts in International Diplomacy

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.A. in International Diplomacy
Total program length
72 semester credit hours
Normal completion time
Two academic years
General education
18 credit hours
Professional application courses
9 credit hours
Capstone requirement
3 credit hours
Academic unit
HBIU College of International Studies
Total credits
72
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Understand key theories and concepts in international relations and diplomacy.
  • Analyze the role of religion in global politics and diplomacy.
  • Develop effective communication and negotiation skills relevant to diplomatic contexts.
  • Evaluate contemporary international issues from multiple perspectives.
  • Apply ethical reasoning to international diplomatic scenarios.
  • Conduct research on global conflicts and propose resolutions grounded in Christian ethical principles.
  • Demonstrate cultural competency and sensitivity in global interactions.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CHR100
  • Introduction to Christian Studies
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC100
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • DIP101
  • Introduction to Diplomacy
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101
  • English Composition I
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG102
  • English Composition II
  • 3
  • Successful completion of English Composition I
  • MAT105
  • College Algebra
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR100 — Introduction to Christian Studies: Overview of Christian history, theology, and cultural impactThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • SOC100 — Introduction to Sociology: Foundational concepts in sociology including social structures, culture, and institutionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • DIP101 — Introduction to Diplomacy: Foundational principles and practices of modern diplomacyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG101 — English Composition I: Development of writing skills with emphasis on clarity, coherence, and academic argumentationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG102 — English Composition II: Advanced writing course focusing on research, analysis, and persuasive communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • MAT105 — College Algebra: Fundamental algebraic concepts and problem-solving techniquesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • COM110
  • Public Speaking
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR120
  • Old Testament Survey
  • 3
  • None
  • DIP120
  • Diplomatic Communication & Negotiation
  • 3
  • None
  • DIP130
  • International Treaties & Agreements
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR140
  • New Testament Survey
  • 3
  • None
  • ELEC200
  • Open Elective
  • 3
  • None
  • COM110 — Public Speaking: Development of effective oral communication and presentation skillsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR120 — Old Testament Survey: Comprehensive study of Old Testament books, themes, and historical contextThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • DIP120 — Diplomatic Communication & Negotiation: Advanced communication skills and negotiation strategies for diplomatsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • DIP130 — International Treaties & Agreements: Analysis of international legal frameworks and treaty negotiationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR140 — New Testament Survey: Examination of New Testament writings, theology, and early ChristianityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ELEC200 — Open Elective: Student-selected course for academic exploration and interestThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • DIP210
  • Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG210
  • Writing for the Social Sciences
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS210
  • History of Global Missions
  • 3
  • CHR100
  • DIP215
  • Global Leadership and Cultural Intelligence
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR220
  • Christian Theology and Doctrine
  • 3
  • None
  • DIP230
  • Foreign Policy and International Decision-Making
  • 3
  • None
  • DIP210 — Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding: Strategies for resolving international conflicts and building sustainable peaceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • ENG210 — Writing for the Social Sciences: Advanced academic writing with focus on social science research and analysisThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • HIS210 — History of Global Missions: This course examines the historical expansion of missionary movements and their long-term impact on global sociocultural landscapes. Students will analyze various approaches to cross-cultural engagement and historical humanitarian efforts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • DIP215 — Global Leadership and Cultural Intelligence: Development of cross-cultural leadership skills for international contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR220 — Christian Theology and Doctrine: Core Christian theological concepts and doctrinal developmentThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • DIP230 — Foreign Policy and International Decision-Making: Analysis of foreign policy formulation and strategic decision-makingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • SOC240
  • Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement
  • 3
  • SOC100
  • CHR250
  • Christianity and World Cultures
  • 3
  • None
  • DIP250
  • Diplomatic Ethics and Moral Leadership
  • 3
  • DIP101
  • DIP260
  • Humanitarian Diplomacy and Global Missions
  • 3
  • None
  • CHR299
  • Christian Studies Capstone
  • 3
  • None
  • DIP299
  • Capstone: International Diplomacy Simulation
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC240 — Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement: This course provides an overview of the administrative and operational principles required to sustain community-focused nonprofit organizations. The curriculum emphasizes volunteer coordination, resource development, and stakeholder relationship management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • CHR250 — Christianity and World Cultures: Exploration of Christianity's global influence and cultural adaptationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • DIP250 — Diplomatic Ethics and Moral Leadership: This course explores the intersection of theological ethics and professional diplomatic practices in secular environments. Students will evaluate case studies regarding personal integrity and servant leadership during international crises. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • DIP260 — Humanitarian Diplomacy and Global Missions: Integration of diplomatic practice with humanitarian and mission workThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • CHR299 — Christian Studies Capstone: Integrative project demonstrating mastery of Christian studies conceptsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
  • DIP299 — Capstone: International Diplomacy Simulation: Practical application of diplomatic skills through comprehensive simulationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Admission is based on a review of academic transcripts and may include an interview process. Career Opportunities Diplomatic Service Officer International Relations Analyst NGO Program Coordinator Cultural Affairs Specialist Human Rights Advocate Policy Advisor Foreign Service Officer 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 | A.A. in International Diplomacy Total program length | 72 semester credit hours Normal completion time | Two academic years General education | 18 credit hours International Diplomacy core | 30 credit hours Professional application courses | 9 credit hours Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours Christian Studies minor | 12 credit hours Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites CHR100 | Introduction to Christian Studies | 3 | None SOC100 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None DIP101 | Introduction to Diplomacy | 3 | None ENG101 | English Composition I | 3 | None ENG102 | English Composition II | 3 | Successful completion of English Composition I MAT105 | College Algebra | 3 | None Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites COM110 | Public Speaking | 3 | None CHR120 | Old Testament Survey | 3 | None DIP120 | Diplomatic Communication & Negotiation | 3 | None DIP130 | International Treaties & Agreements | 3 | None CHR140 | New Testament Survey | 3 | None ELEC200 | Open Elective | 3 | None Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites DIP210 | Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding | 3 | None ENG210 | Writing for the Social Sciences | 3 | None HIS210 | History of Global Missions | 3 | CHR100 DIP215 | Global Leadership and Cultural Intelligence | 3 | None CHR220 | Christian Theology and Doctrine | 3 | None DIP230 | Foreign Policy and International Decision-Making | 3 | None Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites SOC240 | Nonprofit Management and Community Engagement | 3 | SOC100 CHR250 | Christianity and World Cultures | 3 | None DIP250 | Diplomatic Ethics and Moral Leadership | 3 | DIP101 DIP260 | Humanitarian Diplomacy and Global Missions | 3 | None CHR299 | Christian Studies Capstone | 3 | None DIP299 | Capstone: International Diplomacy Simulation | 3 | None

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • Diplomatic Service Officer
  • International Relations Analyst
  • NGO Program Coordinator
  • Cultural Affairs Specialist
  • Human Rights Advocate
  • Policy Advisor
  • Foreign Service Officer

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 | A.A. in International Diplomacy
  • Total program length | 72 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years