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Associate of Arts in Faith-Based International Relations (Specialization in Global Development, Diplomacy)

Academic unitHBIU College of Business and EconomicsTotal credits60Estimated duration2 years

Program Overview

Official program overview

Program Overview

Degree abbreviation

A.A. in Faith-Based International Relations

Total program length

60 semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years

General education

18 credit hours

Faith-Based International Relations core

30 credit hours

Professional application courses

9 credit hours

Capstone requirement

3 credit hours

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based International Relations with a specialization in Global Development and Diplomacy provides a rigorous academic foundation for understanding the complex dynamics of international affairs. This program integrates principles of political science, economics, and sociology to equip students with the analytical tools necessary to navigate the global landscape through a framework of ethical stewardship and servant leadership. By examining historical precedents and contemporary geopolitical trends, students gain a sophisticated understanding of how policy, culture, and social development intersect in a global context.

Students are encouraged to approach international challenges through the lens of social responsibility and sustainable development. The curriculum emphasizes the application of moral reasoning and diplomatic strategies to address systemic issues in marginalized communities worldwide. By bridging theoretical frameworks with practical community engagement, this program prepares graduates to serve as effective contributors to international initiatives, emphasizing the dignity of the human person and the importance of cross-cultural collaboration.

The Associate of Arts in Faith-Based International Relations provides foundational study in the interdisciplinary intersection of faith-based principles and global dynamics. Students explore essential concepts in human development, cross-cultural communication, and ethical frameworks relevant to international diplomacy and development. The curriculum emphasizes the strategic use of community resources and the implementation of supportive service practices, preparing students to analyze complex global issues through a rigorous, values-based perspective.

Program Facts

Program facts

Degree abbreviation
A.A. in Faith-Based International Relations
Total program length
60 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 Business and Economics
Total credits
60
Duration
2 years

Program Description

Official program description

Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes

  • Analyze the historical and theoretical frameworks of international relations and global diplomacy.
  • Evaluate the impact of socioeconomic development strategies on vulnerable global populations.
  • Apply ethical reasoning and principles of servant leadership to address complex international policy dilemmas.
  • Communicate complex geopolitical information effectively through diverse media to inform community decision-making.
  • Integrate a coherent worldview with professional practice to promote social justice and sustainable community transformation.
  • Develop practical skills in project management for international humanitarian and community development initiatives.
  • Course Outline
  • Semester 1 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • ENG101
  • Academic Communication and Inquiry
  • 3
  • None
  • HIS110
  • World History and Geopolitics
  • 3
  • None
  • SOC120
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • 3
  • None
  • THE105
  • Foundations of Ethical Reasoning
  • 3
  • None
  • ENG101 — Academic Communication and Inquiry: This course focuses on critical reading, research, and technical writing skills essential for academic success. Students engage with complex texts to develop persuasive and analytical arguments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HIS110 — World History and Geopolitics: An examination of major historical movements and their influence on modern geopolitical structures. Students analyze key events that have shaped current international relationships. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • SOC120 — Introduction to Sociology: This course provides an introduction to the sociological study of human behavior, social institutions, and global culture. It emphasizes understanding social inequality and community structure. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • THE105 — Foundations of Ethical Reasoning: An introductory exploration of ethical frameworks and moral decision-making processes. Students evaluate how personal character and virtue contribute to social and professional integrity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 2 — Year 1
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • IRN201
  • Introduction to International Relations
  • 3
  • None
  • ECO210
  • Global Development Economics
  • 4
  • None
  • COM220
  • Intercultural Communication
  • 3
  • None
  • MAT150
  • Data Analysis for Public Policy
  • 3
  • MAT100
  • IRN201 — Introduction to International Relations: Students examine the core concepts of international systems, state sovereignty, and international organizations. Analysis focuses on diplomacy and conflict resolution strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • ECO210 — Global Development Economics: This course explores economic growth patterns and the challenges of poverty reduction in developing nations. Students evaluate policy impacts on sustainable community infrastructure. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • COM220 — Intercultural Communication: An analysis of the communication dynamics between diverse cultural, linguistic, and social groups. Students develop strategies for fostering effective dialogue in international settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MAT150 — Data Analysis for Public Policy: A study of statistical methods used to analyze societal trends and evaluate program effectiveness. Students interpret data to support evidence-based decision-making. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 3 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • IRN310
  • International Diplomacy and Negotiation
  • 3
  • IRN201
  • MGT305
  • Nonprofit Management and Stewardship
  • 4
  • None
  • RES300
  • Research Methods for Social Change
  • 3
  • MAT150
  • PSY215
  • Psychology of Leadership
  • 3
  • None
  • IRN310 — International Diplomacy and Negotiation: This course covers the practical application of diplomatic protocols and negotiation theories. Students engage in simulations to resolve interpersonal and organizational disputes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • MGT305 — Nonprofit Management and Stewardship: Focuses on the administrative functions, fundraising, and resource management within nonprofit entities. Students study best practices for fiduciary responsibility and mission alignment. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • RES300 — Research Methods for Social Change: Students learn to design, implement, and analyze research projects aimed at addressing social issues. This course emphasizes ethical data gathering and critical inquiry. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • PSY215 — Psychology of Leadership: Explores the psychological foundations of leadership, focusing on influence, empathy, and team dynamics. Students examine how leadership styles affect group cohesion. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • Semester 4 — Year 2
  • Code
  • Title
  • Credits
  • Prerequisites
  • CAP400
  • Capstone Project in Global Development
  • 4
  • RES300
  • IRN420
  • Current Issues in Global Security
  • 3
  • IRN201
  • BUS350
  • International Trade and Ethics
  • 3
  • ECO210
  • HUM410
  • Social Justice and Humanitarian Policy
  • 3
  • None
  • CAP400 — Capstone Project in Global Development: Students complete an original project applying international relations theory to a practical, real-world issue. This course represents the culmination of academic learning and personal professional formation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • IRN420 — Current Issues in Global Security: A study of modern security threats, including environmental, political, and human security concerns. Students analyze strategies for prevention and mitigation of conflict. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • BUS350 — International Trade and Ethics: Examines the ethical implications of international trade agreements and market policies. Students evaluate how fair trade practices impact global labor and community economic health. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
  • HUM410 — Social Justice and Humanitarian Policy: An investigation of international laws and humanitarian protocols related to social justice. Students analyze the role of international advocacy in policy change. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Admission Requirements

Admission and entry requirements

Applicants must provide evidence of a high school diploma or an equivalent state-recognized high school credential, such as a GED. Admissions reviewers seek candidates who demonstrate potential for academic success through a strong record of secondary education or relevant professional experience. All applicants must submit a personal statement reflecting their interest in global service and their commitment to the institutional mission of ethical, faith-informed leadership. Culminating Project The Capstone Project serves as the culminating academic experience for the Associate of Arts degree, requiring students to synthesize their knowledge of international relations and global development. Students are tasked with designing a comprehensive project proposal that addresses a specific humanitarian or diplomatic challenge in a real-world setting. This project necessitates the application of interdisciplinary research methods to propose sustainable solutions that reflect the values of stewardship and global community service. The project requires students to explicitly articulate how their proposed interventions align with principles of servant leadership and ethical integrity. By integrating spiritual formation with professional project management, students demonstrate their capacity to bridge faith-based values with pragmatic, data-driven solutions. Deliverables include a formal project portfolio and a final presentation that reflects academic competence, technical proficiency, and an intentional commitment to serving the common good through faith-informed action.

Protected Curriculum

Complete program outline available after verification

Graduation Requirements

Graduation and completion requirements

  • To graduate from the program, students must achieve a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and successfully complete all 60 required credit hours as prescribed by the curriculum. This rigorous standard ensures that students possess both the technical knowledge and the academic discipline required to perform effectively in international professional settings.
  • Beyond academic success, graduation requires the successful completion of the Capstone Project, demonstrating the student’s ability to integrate faith-based character development with professional expertise. Graduates are also expected to fulfill requirements for spiritual formation and community service, ensuring that their academic journey is mirrored by a commitment to ethical character and moral maturity. This holistic approach ensures that students are prepared to enter their chosen vocations with a sense of purpose, integrity, and readiness for dedicated service.
  • Career Opportunities
  • International Humanitarian Relief Coordinator
  • Nonprofit Program Assistant
  • Diplomatic Liaison for Faith-Based NGOs
  • Global Development Project Associate
  • Community Advocacy Specialist
  • Cross-Cultural Relations Consultant
  • Policy Research Assistant
  • 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 Faith-Based International Relations
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years
  • General education | 18 credit hours
  • Faith-Based International Relations core | 30 credit hours
  • Professional application courses | 9 credit hours
  • Capstone requirement | 3 credit hours
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • ENG101 | Academic Communication and Inquiry | 3 | None
  • HIS110 | World History and Geopolitics | 3 | None
  • SOC120 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 | None
  • THE105 | Foundations of Ethical Reasoning | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • IRN201 | Introduction to International Relations | 3 | None
  • ECO210 | Global Development Economics | 4 | None
  • COM220 | Intercultural Communication | 3 | None
  • MAT150 | Data Analysis for Public Policy | 3 | MAT100
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • IRN310 | International Diplomacy and Negotiation | 3 | IRN201
  • MGT305 | Nonprofit Management and Stewardship | 4 | None
  • RES300 | Research Methods for Social Change | 3 | MAT150
  • PSY215 | Psychology of Leadership | 3 | None
  • Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
  • CAP400 | Capstone Project in Global Development | 4 | RES300
  • IRN420 | Current Issues in Global Security | 3 | IRN201
  • BUS350 | International Trade and Ethics | 3 | ECO210
  • HUM410 | Social Justice and Humanitarian Policy | 3 | None

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities

Career Opportunities

  • International Humanitarian Relief Coordinator
  • Nonprofit Program Assistant
  • Diplomatic Liaison for Faith-Based NGOs
  • Global Development Project Associate
  • Community Advocacy Specialist
  • Cross-Cultural Relations Consultant
  • Policy Research Assistant

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 Faith-Based International Relations
  • Total program length | 60 semester credit hours
  • Normal completion time | Two academic years