Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based International Business

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based International Business

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 Business and Project Management

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze complex global business environments using advanced quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
• Evaluate the impact of international trade policies on diverse socio-economic communities.
• Integrate principles of ethical stewardship and servant leadership into global management strategies.
• Design original, empirical research that contributes new knowledge to the field of international business.
• Communicate scholarly findings effectively to academic, professional, and community stakeholders.
• Develop evidence-based solutions to organizational challenges within diverse, cross-cultural contexts.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES700
• Advanced Quantitative Methods
• 3
• None
• BUS710
• Global Economic Theory
• 3
• None
• THE720
• Ethics and Stewardship in Business
• 3
• None
• RES700 — Advanced Quantitative Methods: This course covers multivariate analysis and advanced statistical modeling in business research. It emphasizes the application of rigorous data analysis to solve complex operational problems. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS710 — Global Economic Theory: Students examine historical and contemporary economic theories within the context of international trade. The course analyzes how economic systems influence local and global markets. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE720 — Ethics and Stewardship in Business: This course explores the philosophical and theological foundations of economic stewardship and professional ethics. Students analyze the impact of corporate decisions on society and the environment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES705
• Qualitative Research Design
• 4
• RES700
• MGT715
• Cross-Cultural Management
• 3
• None
• BUS725
• International Trade Policy
• 3
• BUS710
• MIN730
• Servant Leadership and Organizational Behavior
• 4
• None
• RES705 — Qualitative Research Design: This course introduces students to ethnographic and phenomenological research methods used in organizational study. It focuses on collecting and analyzing rich narrative data from diverse stakeholders. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT715 — Cross-Cultural Management: Students explore the challenges of managing diverse workforces in multinational environments. The course emphasizes cultural intelligence and effective communication strategies for international teams. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS725 — International Trade Policy: This course analyzes the legal and regulatory frameworks governing global trade. Students investigate the effects of international policies on development and sustainable growth. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN730 — Servant Leadership and Organizational Behavior: This course examines the application of servant leadership principles in modern business hierarchies. Students evaluate how leadership styles influence organizational culture and employee well-being. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES800
• Applied Doctoral Research Seminar
• 4
• RES705
• BUS810
• Finance for International Development
• 3
• BUS725
• SOC820
• Social Impact and Community Engagement
• 3
• None
• MGT830
• Organizational Sustainability
• 4
• None
• RES800 — Applied Doctoral Research Seminar: This seminar facilitates the development of a viable research proposal for the dissertation. Students critique existing literature and refine their research questions through faculty mentorship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS810 — Finance for International Development: This course investigates financial strategies for international nonprofits and social enterprises. Students analyze fiscal management techniques that maximize impact in underserved communities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC820 — Social Impact and Community Engagement: Students analyze the role of business in fostering social cohesion and long-term community development. The course explores strategies for sustainable stakeholder engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT830 — Organizational Sustainability: This course reviews frameworks for managing resources sustainably in a global, competitive market. It emphasizes environmental and social responsibility in corporate governance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES815
• Advanced Data Synthesis
• 4
• RES800
• BUS840
• International Business Ethics Seminar
• 3
• THE720
• MGT850
• Strategic Human Capital Development
• 3
• None
• HUM860
• Worldview and Global Business
• 4
• None
• RES815 — Advanced Data Synthesis: Students gain expertise in integrating multi-modal data to support empirical conclusions. The course focuses on complex synthesis techniques for doctoral dissertation chapters. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS840 — International Business Ethics Seminar: This course facilitates critical dialogue regarding ethical dilemmas in the global marketplace. Students apply moral reasoning to case studies involving international operations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT850 — Strategic Human Capital Development: This course focuses on the development and retention of talent in international organizational structures. It explores the intersection of professional training and personal character development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HUM860 — Worldview and Global Business: Students explore the influence of diverse worldviews on business practices and ethical decision-making. This course emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural lenses in global commerce. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS890
• Dissertation Research Phase I
• 4
• RES815
• BUS870
• Entrepreneurship for Social Good
• 3
• None
• MGT880
• Advanced Leadership and Governance
• 3
• MIN730
• RES885
• Academic Writing and Peer Review
• 4
• RES815
• DIS890 — Dissertation Research Phase I: Students begin the data collection and initial analysis phase for their doctoral dissertation. This phase requires regular consultation with their research supervisor. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS870 — Entrepreneurship for Social Good: This course analyzes models of entrepreneurship that prioritize social welfare and community health. It evaluates how business innovation can serve the public good globally. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT880 — Advanced Leadership and Governance: This course examines the governance structures of large-scale international organizations. It explores the responsibility of leaders to foster transparency and accountability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES885 — Academic Writing and Peer Review: This course prepares doctoral students for the dissemination of their research through academic publication. Students participate in professional peer-review activities to hone their scholarly output. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS899
• Dissertation Defense and Finalization
• 4
• DIS890
• BUS895
• Global Business Trends Seminar
• 3
• None
• BUS890
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Policy
• 3
• None
• CAP899
• Doctoral Portfolio Development
• 4
• None
• DIS899 — Dissertation Defense and Finalization: Students finalize their research, produce the dissertation manuscript, and present their findings during a formal defense. Successful completion marks the culmination of the doctoral research process. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS895 — Global Business Trends Seminar: A capstone seminar examining emerging trends and future challenges in global markets. Students critically evaluate the influence of global shifts on future business operations. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS890 — Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Policy: This course examines the role of corporations in addressing social issues and the impact of government regulations on ethical business operations. Students will analyze case studies to understand the balance between profit-seeking behavior and public interest. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP899 — Doctoral Portfolio Development: Students compile their academic achievements and research contributions into a comprehensive portfolio for career entry. This course highlights professional readiness and long-term research goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must possess a Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a related field such as Business, Economics, or Organizational Leadership, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Candidates are required to submit official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a current curriculum vitae, and a statement of purpose detailing their research interests and alignment with the program’s focus on ethical business practice. Proficiency in academic English is required, and candidates may be asked to participate in an interview to assess their readiness for doctoral-level research and commitment to the mission of the institution. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation serves as the culminating scholarly endeavor, requiring candidates to perform original research that addresses a significant problem within international business. Students are expected to demonstrate mastery of their research topic, rigor in methodology, and the ability to synthesize academic findings with faith-based ethical reflections. The project culminates in a formal manuscript that contributes new knowledge to the field of international management and organizational development. Integration of faith-based perspectives is a foundational component of the dissertation process, as students explicitly address how their research upholds the values of integrity, stewardship, and community impact. Through a comprehensive defense before a faculty committee, candidates demonstrate both the technical competence required for doctoral inquiry and the moral character development reflective of their commitment to principled, service-oriented leadership in the global marketplace.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours, including the 35 transferable master’s credits and 85 doctoral-level credits, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in all core research competencies and successfully defend their dissertation before a faculty panel. In addition to academic requirements, candidates are expected to participate in institutional community service and spiritual formation reflections, demonstrating a commitment to personal integrity and service to their respective communities.
• The university recognizes that degree attainment is as much about character development as it is about intellectual mastery. Therefore, students must demonstrate readiness for ethical, faith-informed service by participating in regular leadership seminars and fulfilling community engagement mandates that reflect the values of the institution. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are prepared to lead with both academic excellence and spiritual maturity in their professional spheres.
• Career Opportunities
• International Business Researcher
• Global Strategy Consultant
• Nonprofit Operations Director
• University Professor of Business Administration
• International Development Policy Advisor
• Executive Director of Global Humanitarian Outreach
• Corporate Social Responsibility 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 | Ph.D. in Faith-Based International Business
• 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 international business 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
• RES700 | Advanced Quantitative Methods | 3 | None
• BUS710 | Global Economic Theory | 3 | None
• THE720 | Ethics and Stewardship in Business | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES705 | Qualitative Research Design | 4 | RES700
• MGT715 | Cross-Cultural Management | 3 | None
• BUS725 | International Trade Policy | 3 | BUS710
• MIN730 | Servant Leadership and Organizational Behavior | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES800 | Applied Doctoral Research Seminar | 4 | RES705
• BUS810 | Finance for International Development | 3 | BUS725
• SOC820 | Social Impact and Community Engagement | 3 | None
• MGT830 | Organizational Sustainability | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES815 | Advanced Data Synthesis | 4 | RES800
• BUS840 | International Business Ethics Seminar | 3 | THE720
• MGT850 | Strategic Human Capital Development | 3 | None
• HUM860 | Worldview and Global Business | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS890 | Dissertation Research Phase I | 4 | RES815
• BUS870 | Entrepreneurship for Social Good | 3 | None
• MGT880 | Advanced Leadership and Governance | 3 | MIN730
• RES885 | Academic Writing and Peer Review | 4 | RES815
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS899 | Dissertation Defense and Finalization | 4 | DIS890
• BUS895 | Global Business Trends Seminar | 3 | None
• BUS890 | Corporate Social Responsibility and Public Policy | 3 | None
• CAP899 | Doctoral Portfolio Development | 4 | None