Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Counseling Psychology — Minor: Advanced Counseling Theory, Supervision

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Counseling Psychology

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 Behavioral Social Science

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze complex psychological theories to synthesize evidence-based approaches in human counseling.
• Evaluate the intersection of ethical frameworks and professional practices within diverse community settings.
• Design original research projects using advanced qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
• Apply principles of servant leadership and stewardship to resolve organizational and interpersonal conflicts.
• Develop advanced pedagogical strategies for the professional supervision of counseling practitioners.
• Communicate scholarly findings effectively through academic publications and professional presentations.
• Integrate a robust ethical and spiritual perspective into professional conduct and decision-making processes.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES700
• Advanced Research Methodology
• 4
• None
• COU710
• Contemporary Counseling Theories
• 3
• None
• THE705
• Ethics in Behavioral Science
• 3
• None
• RES700 — Advanced Research Methodology: This course examines complex quantitative and qualitative research designs appropriate for doctoral study. Students learn to critique published literature and formulate robust methodologies for original inquiryThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU710 — Contemporary Counseling Theories: A comprehensive analysis of current psychological theories, emphasizing the evolution of evidence-based models. Students evaluate these frameworks for their application in diverse socio-cultural environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• THE705 — Ethics in Behavioral Science: An examination of professional ethics within counseling, focusing on legal obligations, moral discernment, and the stewardship of practitioner influence. Students analyze case studies to resolve ethical dilemmasThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES720
• Applied Statistical Analysis
• 4
• RES700
• COU725
• Advanced Human Development
• 3
• None
• COU730
• Principles of Counseling Supervision
• 3
• COU710
• MIN710
• Servant Leadership in Organizations
• 3
• None
• RES720 — Applied Statistical Analysis: This course provides instruction in advanced statistical techniques used in psychological research. Students learn to process complex data sets and interpret results to support scholarly conclusionsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU725 — Advanced Human Development: An investigation of life-span development theories through the lens of psychological research and human flourishing. Focuses on the role of environment and community in individual growthThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU730 — Principles of Counseling Supervision: Explores pedagogical strategies for overseeing and mentoring junior practitioners in the field. Includes the study of supervisory styles, feedback techniques, and ethical monitoringThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• MIN710 — Servant Leadership in Organizations: This course evaluates the application of servant leadership principles within professional settings. Students analyze models of organizational health that honor individual dignity and collaborative successThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES800
• Qualitative Research Inquiry
• 4
• RES700
• COU810
• Advanced Group Dynamics
• 3
• COU710
• COU820
• Advanced Supervision Practicum
• 3
• COU730
• SOC805
• Sociology of Sustainable Resource Management
• 3
• THE705
• RES800 — Qualitative Research Inquiry: Examines methods for capturing human experience through narrative, phenomenology, and ethnography. Students develop skills in coding, thematic analysis, and scholarly reportingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU810 — Advanced Group Dynamics: Analyzes the mechanics of small group interactions and their role in social change. Focuses on facilitation strategies that promote community and collective problem-solvingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU820 — Advanced Supervision Practicum: Provides practical application of supervision theory in a simulated or professional environment. Students refine their mentorship style and conflict resolution strategies under expert guidanceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC805 — Sociology of Sustainable Resource Management: This course examines the socio-economic principles of sustainable resource allocation and the ethical management of human and environmental assets within large-scale organizations. It focuses on the strategic deployment of human capital to ensure long-term viability and operational excellence. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES815
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• 4
• RES800
• COU830
• Interpersonal Communication in Practice
• 3
• None
• EDU850
• Pedagogy for Behavioral Science
• 3
• None
• SOC840
• Community Engaged Research
• 3
• RES800
• RES815 — Dissertation Proposal Development: Students work to finalize their research question, methodology, and literature review. The course culminates in a formal proposal review by a faculty committeeThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU830 — Interpersonal Communication in Practice: Analyzes advanced communication strategies to support collaboration across diverse professional stakeholders. Focuses on empathetic listening and clarity in organizational messagingThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• EDU850 — Pedagogy for Behavioral Science: Explores teaching methods for graduate-level students, emphasizing collaborative learning and effective knowledge dissemination. Addresses the creation of inclusive and impactful classroom environmentsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• SOC840 — Community Engaged Research: Examines the methodology of engaging with local communities to solve social challenges. Focuses on the collaborative process between researchers and community stakeholdersThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES850
• Advanced Data Synthesis
• 3
• RES815
• COU860
• Integrative Behavioral Models
• 3
• COU810
• COU870
• Advanced Leadership Seminar
• 3
• MIN710
• RES890
• Dissertation Research I
• 4
• RES815
• RES850 — Advanced Data Synthesis: Provides dedicated time for data collection and analysis under the guidance of a dissertation advisor. Focuses on the rigorous verification of findingsThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU860 — Integrative Behavioral Models: Synthesizes major psychological trends with practical application in contemporary institutional settings. Encourages the development of an integrative, ethical professional philosophyThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU870 — Advanced Leadership Seminar: Focuses on the challenges of leading behavioral health organizations. Emphasizes strategic planning, ethical oversight, and the cultivation of mission-driven staff cultureThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES890 — Dissertation Research I: The first phase of the dissertation project involving original research activities. Students demonstrate the ability to conduct independent inquiry and contribute to professional knowledgeThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES895
• Dissertation Research II
• 4
• RES890
• RES899
• Dissertation Defense
• 4
• RES895
• COU880
• Professional Development and Service
• 3
• None
• THE890
• Senior Integrative Seminar
• 3
• THE705
• RES895 — Dissertation Research II: The final stage of the dissertation, focused on the preparation of the manuscript and preparation for the oral defense. Demonstrates scholarly excellence and integrityThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• RES899 — Dissertation Defense: The formal oral presentation and defense of the completed dissertation project. Students must justify their methodology, findings, and implications to a faculty committeeThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• COU880 — Professional Development and Service: Focuses on transitioning from doctoral student to independent scholar and community leader. Addresses personal stewardship, service contribution, and continuous lifelong learningThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..
• THE890 — Senior Integrative Seminar: A final synthesis of academic training, ethical discernment, and professional calling. Students articulate their future commitment to service-oriented behavioral science practiceThis course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions..

Prospective candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, or a closely related behavioral science field from an accredited institution. Applicants are required to submit official transcripts reflecting a minimum graduate GPA of 3.0, a statement of purpose outlining their research interests and professional goals, three letters of recommendation from academic or professional supervisors, and a curriculum vitae. Final admission is contingent upon a faculty interview assessing the candidate's academic preparedness and alignment with the mission of HBI University. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation serves as the culminating scholarly endeavor, requiring students to conduct an original, independent research project that addresses a critical issue within the field of counseling psychology. Students are expected to demonstrate mastery of research design, data analysis, and the ability to articulate scholarly conclusions that contribute to existing academic literature. The scope involves a comprehensive review of relevant theories, empirical analysis, and the synthesis of findings with ethical, faith-informed implications for professional practice. This project reflects the integration of academic competence with spiritual formation, requiring students to demonstrate how their research serves the broader community with wisdom and stewardship. Beyond technical proficiency, the dissertation must document how the student applies a Christian worldview to the subject matter, ensuring that the research promotes human flourishing and upholds ethical integrity. Successful completion culminates in a formal oral defense before a faculty committee, validating both the student's research rigor and their readiness to lead as a scholar-practitioner.

• Graduation necessitates the successful completion of 120 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, including the successful defense and submission of the doctoral dissertation. Students must complete all coursework with a grade of B or better, maintaining the academic rigor expected at the doctoral level. Beyond academic requirements, students must demonstrate ongoing engagement in spiritual formation and community service, reflecting the University's commitment to character development and ethical leadership.
• Students are expected to participate in institutional formation activities, including regular community gatherings and service-learning opportunities, which serve to cultivate the professional maturity required for faith-informed service. By pairing scholarly achievement with a demonstrated commitment to integrity and servant-hearted practice, graduates emerge fully prepared to offer professional expertise in environments that prioritize both human dignity and the common good.
• Career Opportunities
• University Faculty and Academic Instructor
• Social Service Program Director
• Non-profit Leadership Consultant
• Counseling Center Administrator
• Behavioral Health Policy Researcher
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Supervisor of Professional Counseling Services
• Academic Research Associate
• 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 Counseling Psychology
• 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 Counseling Psychology 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 | 4 | None
• COU710 | Contemporary Counseling Theories | 3 | None
• THE705 | Ethics in Behavioral Science | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES720 | Applied Statistical Analysis | 4 | RES700
• COU725 | Advanced Human Development | 3 | None
• COU730 | Principles of Counseling Supervision | 3 | COU710
• MIN710 | Servant Leadership in Organizations | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES800 | Qualitative Research Inquiry | 4 | RES700
• COU810 | Advanced Group Dynamics | 3 | COU710
• COU820 | Advanced Supervision Practicum | 3 | COU730
• SOC805 | Sociology of Sustainable Resource Management | 3 | THE705
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES815 | Dissertation Proposal Development | 4 | RES800
• COU830 | Interpersonal Communication in Practice | 3 | None
• EDU850 | Pedagogy for Behavioral Science | 3 | None
• SOC840 | Community Engaged Research | 3 | RES800
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES850 | Advanced Data Synthesis | 3 | RES815
• COU860 | Integrative Behavioral Models | 3 | COU810
• COU870 | Advanced Leadership Seminar | 3 | MIN710
• RES890 | Dissertation Research I | 4 | RES815
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES895 | Dissertation Research II | 4 | RES890
• RES899 | Dissertation Defense | 4 | RES895
• COU880 | Professional Development and Service | 3 | None
• THE890 | Senior Integrative Seminar | 3 | THE705