Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Global Media, Communication

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Global Media, Communication

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

Unassigned Academic Unit

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze complex communication phenomena using advanced theoretical frameworks.
• Evaluate the impact of digital media technologies on cross-cultural interactions.
• Develop original research designs that address critical gaps in media and communication literature.
• Integrate ethical reasoning and servant leadership principles into media practice and theory.
• Communicate scholarly findings effectively through academic publishing and professional presentations.
• Interpret global communication trends through the lens of historical and contemporary sociological contexts.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES700
• Advanced Research Methodology
• 3
• None
• COM705
• Global Communication Theory
• 3
• None
• ETH710
• Ethics in Global Media
• 3
• None
• RES700 — Advanced Research Methodology: This course explores advanced qualitative and quantitative research techniques for the social sciences. Students examine the philosophical underpinnings of various methodologies and their application in global contextsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM705 — Global Communication Theory: Students analyze major historical and contemporary communication theories from a global perspective. The course highlights how these theories inform current media practices and societal discourseThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• ETH710 — Ethics in Global Media: This course examines ethical dilemmas within the media landscape, focusing on stewardship and moral accountability. Participants evaluate the tension between profit-driven media models and public interestThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM720
• Media and Cultural Identity
• 4
• COM705
• RES730
• Quantitative Data Analysis
• 4
• RES700
• MGT740
• Leadership in Global Organizations
• 4
• None
• COM750
• Digital Convergence Strategies
• 4
• None
• COM720 — Media and Cultural Identity: This course investigates the relationship between global media consumption and the construction of individual and communal identities. Emphasis is placed on the role of digital spaces in cross-cultural communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES730 — Quantitative Data Analysis: Participants master statistical software and analytical techniques for interpreting large-scale media datasets. The course focuses on validity, reliability, and precision in research outcomesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MGT740 — Leadership in Global Organizations: Students examine models of servant leadership within multinational media organizations. The course applies organizational theory to foster cultures of integrity and serviceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM750 — Digital Convergence Strategies: An analysis of the technological shifts impacting global media delivery systems. Students evaluate how emerging platforms facilitate or hinder the flow of information across bordersThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES800
• Qualitative Research Design
• 4
• RES700
• COM810
• International Media Systems
• 4
• COM705
• COM820
• Persuasion and Social Change
• 4
• None
• RES830
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• 4
• RES800
• RES800 — Qualitative Research Design: Focuses on ethnographic and phenomenological research approaches within communication studies. Students prepare for dissertation-level inquiry through extensive literature review and field study preparationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM810 — International Media Systems: Students compare media regulatory frameworks and information freedom across different nations. The course evaluates the impact of these systems on global public opinionThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM820 — Persuasion and Social Change: This course explores the mechanics of persuasive communication and its impact on societal development. Students consider the moral implications of utilizing communication as a tool for public benefitThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES830 — Dissertation Proposal Development: Students finalize their dissertation topic and research questions under faculty supervision. This course concludes with a formal proposal defense before the department committeeThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• COM840
• Advanced Media Analytics
• 4
• RES730
• SOC850
• Sociology of New Media
• 4
• None
• COM860
• Conflict Resolution in Media
• 4
• None
• POL870
• Advanced Seminar in Public Policy and Media
• 4
• None
• COM840 — Advanced Media Analytics: Provides advanced instruction on the use of predictive analytics in media monitoring. Students analyze data to assess the efficiency and reach of global messaging campaignsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC850 — Sociology of New Media: Examines the societal shifts caused by the rise of social media and algorithmic governance. Students discuss the challenges of maintaining truth and civic cohesion in a digital ageThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM860 — Conflict Resolution in Media: Studies the role of communication in mediating global conflicts. The course emphasizes dialogue, reconciliation, and the mitigation of propaganda in crisis situationsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• POL870 — Advanced Seminar in Public Policy and Media: This course examines the intersection of public policy frameworks, regulatory environments, and global media discourse. It explores how advocacy organizations influence legislative processes through communication strategies and research-backed public engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS880
• Dissertation Research Phase I
• 4
• RES830
• COM890
• Global Crisis Communication
• 4
• None
• COM891
• Digital Pedagogy
• 4
• None
• RES895
• Advanced Statistical Review
• 3
• RES730
• DIS880 — Dissertation Research Phase I: The first phase of the dissertation, focusing on primary data collection and analysis. Students work closely with their advisors to ensure methodological rigorThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM890 — Global Crisis Communication: Analyzes how large-scale crises are communicated globally, emphasizing accuracy and ethical response strategies. Students apply best practices to complex international scenariosThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM891 — Digital Pedagogy: Explores methods for teaching communication studies in an online, globalized environment. Students develop instructional materials grounded in pedagogical best practicesThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES895 — Advanced Statistical Review: Provides a final review of complex data modeling for research candidates nearing completion of their studies. Focuses on ensuring high analytical standards for final manuscriptsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS899
• Dissertation Defense and Submission
• 4
• DIS880
• COM900
• Advanced Strategic Consulting
• 4
• None
• COM910
• Globalization and Media Markets
• 4
• None
• COM920
• Future of Communication Studies
• 3
• None
• DIS899 — Dissertation Defense and Submission: The final phase of the dissertation, requiring the completion and oral defense of the scholarly manuscript. Students demonstrate original contribution to the field of global communicationThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM900 — Advanced Strategic Consulting: Students apply their research to real-world communication challenges, acting as consultants for identified organizational issues. Focuses on sustainable solutions and ethical impactThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM910 — Globalization and Media Markets: An analysis of the economics of global media systems. Students evaluate how market trends influence the availability and content of media across different regionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COM920 — Future of Communication Studies: A concluding seminar synthesizing current trends, prospective technologies, and the future role of communication professionals in a global contextThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Applicants must hold a master's degree from an accredited institution in communication, media studies, or a related field with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2. Requirements include the submission of official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, three letters of recommendation, and a scholarly writing sample that demonstrates the applicant's ability to engage in doctoral-level research. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation serves as the culminating scholarly endeavor, requiring students to execute an original, independent research project that makes a substantive contribution to the field of global media and communication. Students are expected to identify a significant problem, conduct rigorous methodology-driven research, and produce a high-quality manuscript that demonstrates mastery of the subject matter and analytical maturity. Integration of faith-based perspectives is mandatory, requiring students to examine their research topics through the lenses of ethical stewardship, the moral implications of media representation, and the application of servant leadership in digital spaces. This project challenges candidates to synthesize professional expertise with a commitment to integrity, ensuring that their intellectual contributions reflect both academic excellence and a disciplined, faith-informed worldview.

• Candidates must achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 throughout the duration of the program, with no grade below a 'B' accepted for doctoral credit. Students must complete all 120 credit hours, which include 35 transferable master's credits and 85 hours of specialized doctoral coursework, culminating in the successful defense of the dissertation before a faculty committee.
• Beyond academic attainment, students are expected to demonstrate spiritual maturity and ethical consistency, manifested through active participation in institutional community engagement and service requirements. Graduation signifies not only the mastery of the communication discipline but also a readiness to serve in global capacities with the moral fortitude, spiritual integrity, and professional wisdom required of leaders within the HBI University community.
• Career Opportunities
• Higher Education Professor
• Global Media Policy Analyst
• Strategic Communication Director
• Digital Content Strategist
• Non-profit Communications Consultant
• International Media Researcher
• Public Policy Advisor
• 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 Media, Communication
• 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 Media, Communication 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 Research Methodology | 3 | None
• COM705 | Global Communication Theory | 3 | None
• ETH710 | Ethics in Global Media | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM720 | Media and Cultural Identity | 4 | COM705
• RES730 | Quantitative Data Analysis | 4 | RES700
• MGT740 | Leadership in Global Organizations | 4 | None
• COM750 | Digital Convergence Strategies | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES800 | Qualitative Research Design | 4 | RES700
• COM810 | International Media Systems | 4 | COM705
• COM820 | Persuasion and Social Change | 4 | None
• RES830 | Dissertation Proposal Development | 4 | RES800
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• COM840 | Advanced Media Analytics | 4 | RES730
• SOC850 | Sociology of New Media | 4 | None
• COM860 | Conflict Resolution in Media | 4 | None
• POL870 | Advanced Seminar in Public Policy and Media | 4 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS880 | Dissertation Research Phase I | 4 | RES830
• COM890 | Global Crisis Communication | 4 | None
• COM891 | Digital Pedagogy | 4 | None
• RES895 | Advanced Statistical Review | 3 | RES730
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS899 | Dissertation Defense and Submission | 4 | DIS880
• COM900 | Advanced Strategic Consulting | 4 | None
• COM910 | Globalization and Media Markets | 4 | None
• COM920 | Future of Communication Studies | 3 | None