Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Astronomy, Specialization in Space Education

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Astronomy

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 Education and Human Development

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze advanced astronomical phenomena through the framework of contemporary empirical research and ethical stewardship.
• Design inclusive pedagogical strategies for space education that account for diverse learning styles and community needs.
• Evaluate the impact of space exploration on society using frameworks of servant leadership and social responsibility.
• Demonstrate scholarly expertise through the production of an original dissertation that contributes to the field of astronomy education.
• Integrate core professional ethics and historical perspectives into the practice of scientific communication.
• Communicate complex scientific data to non-specialist audiences to foster broader understanding and public engagement.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES701
• Research Methods in Astronomy Education
• 4
• None
• EDU710
• Foundations of Servant Leadership in Education
• 3
• None
• AST720
• Advanced Astrophysical Concepts
• 3
• None
• RES701 — Research Methods in Astronomy Education: An introduction to qualitative and quantitative research designs specifically for pedagogical inquiry in the sciences. Students learn to critique scientific literature and design valid research instruments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU710 — Foundations of Servant Leadership in Education: An exploration of leadership theories focused on service, ethics, and the steward-leader model in modern educational environments. The course emphasizes personal character development and organizational impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• AST720 — Advanced Astrophysical Concepts: A deep dive into current astrophysical theories including stellar evolution, cosmology, and planetary science. The course stresses the importance of precision in scientific communication. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• EDU730
• Pedagogy for Diverse Populations
• 3
• EDU710
• RES750
• Quantitative Data Analysis for Social Science
• 3
• RES701
• AST740
• Space Literacy and Public Engagement
• 3
• AST720
• ETH760
• Ethical Stewardship in Science and Technology
• 3
• None
• EDU730 — Pedagogy for Diverse Populations: This course examines pedagogical strategies tailored to meet the needs of diverse learners in various community contexts. Students apply inclusive design principles to science education. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES750 — Quantitative Data Analysis for Social Science: Focuses on statistical tools and software for analyzing educational data in a research context. Students learn to interpret complex datasets to inform curriculum design. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• AST740 — Space Literacy and Public Engagement: Investigates the role of science communication in public life and the responsibility of educators to promote scientific literacy. Students develop outreach programs for local communities. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ETH760 — Ethical Stewardship in Science and Technology: Analyzes the ethical implications of technological advancements in space exploration and human responsibility toward the planet. Emphasizes sustainability and thoughtful stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES805
• Advanced Qualitative Inquiry
• 3
• RES701
• EDU820
• Curriculum Design in Space Education
• 3
• EDU730
• AST830
• Stellar Dynamics and Cosmic Models
• 3
• AST720
• MGT850
• Organizational Leadership in Non-Profits
• 3
• EDU710
• RES805 — Advanced Qualitative Inquiry: Explores phenomenological and ethnographic approaches to educational research. Students conduct field interviews and coding as part of their preparation for the dissertation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU820 — Curriculum Design in Space Education: Focuses on the construction of science curricula that align with both academic standards and local community values. Covers modular design and assessment strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• AST830 — Stellar Dynamics and Cosmic Models: Examines advanced models of stellar behavior and the impact of cosmic dynamics on modern observational science. Stresses accuracy in data representation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT850 — Organizational Leadership in Non-Profits: Studies the operational and financial leadership required to sustain community-based science and education organizations. Focuses on mission-driven management. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES860
• Doctoral Research Seminar
• 4
• RES805
• EDU870
• Digital Learning Technologies
• 3
• EDU820
• HIS880
• History of Science and Cultural Worldviews
• 3
• None
• COM890
• Advanced Scholarly Communication
• 3
• None
• RES860 — Doctoral Research Seminar: A collaborative environment where students refine their dissertation topic and research proposal under faculty mentorship. Emphasizes academic rigor and clarity. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU870 — Digital Learning Technologies: Explores the application of emerging digital platforms and simulations for teaching astronomical concepts in diverse settings. Focuses on accessibility. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• HIS880 — History of Science and Cultural Worldviews: Analyzes the historical evolution of scientific thought and its integration with diverse cultural and ethical worldviews. Encourages critical dialogue between history and science. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM890 — Advanced Scholarly Communication: Develops the skills required for writing and defending doctoral-level academic work, including grant writing and public reporting. Focuses on precision and audience adaptation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS901
• Dissertation Research Phase I
• 4
• RES860
• EDU910
• Advanced Practicum in Education
• 3
• EDU820
• ENV920
• Environmental Ethics and Global Sustainability
• 3
• None
• AST930
• Contemporary Topics in Astronomy
• 3
• AST830
• DIS901 — Dissertation Research Phase I: The student executes the approved research plan under the direction of the dissertation committee chair. Focuses on data collection and initial analysis. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU910 — Advanced Practicum in Education: Provides a hands-on experience in leading educational programs or training sessions within a community setting. Integrates theory into field application. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ENV920 — Environmental Ethics and Global Sustainability: This course explores the intersection of human activity and natural ecosystems, focusing on normative frameworks for responsible environmental management and conservation policy. Students examine how systematic resource stewardship impacts long-term organizational viability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• AST930 — Contemporary Topics in Astronomy: A literature-driven course focusing on the most recent findings in astrophysics and their implications for educational programming. Encourages critical synthesis of new data. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS902
• Dissertation Completion and Defense
• 4
• DIS901
• EDU950
• Leadership Capstone Seminar
• 3
• EDU910
• SOC960
• Community Engagement and Social Policy
• 3
• None
• BUS970
• Strategic Planning for Educational Growth
• 3
• MGT850
• DIS902 — Dissertation Completion and Defense: The student finalizes the dissertation, prepares for the oral defense, and integrates feedback from the committee to complete the terminal degree requirements. Demonstrates academic and ethical mastery. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU950 — Leadership Capstone Seminar: Reflects on the synthesis of leadership, education, and ethical practice developed throughout the program. Students define their professional philosophy of service. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC960 — Community Engagement and Social Policy: Examines the intersection of educational programming and social policy in fostering resilient, community-centered science outreach. Discusses advocacy strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS970 — Strategic Planning for Educational Growth: Focuses on strategic mapping, vision casting, and resource allocation to grow science education programs within mission-aligned environments. Promotes stewardship of assets. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must hold a conferred Master’s degree from an accredited institution in education, astronomy, physics, or a closely related field with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Prospective students are required to submit a personal statement reflecting their research interests, a professional curriculum vitae, and three letters of recommendation that speak to the candidate’s academic potential and commitment to ethical leadership. The admissions committee assesses candidates based on their prior research experience, alignment with the university’s mission of service, and the potential to contribute meaningfully to the discipline of space education. Dissertation Requirement The Dissertation serves as the culminating academic experience for the Doctor of Philosophy, requiring the candidate to conduct original research that addresses a critical gap in space education. The project must demonstrate high-level synthesis of astronomical knowledge, pedagogical theory, and ethical reasoning. The dissertation process involves the identification of a research problem, the implementation of rigorous methodology, and the presentation of findings that contribute to the scholarly community. Students are expected to produce a document of publishable quality that reflects critical thinking and professional competence. Beyond academic rigor, the dissertation provides a platform for students to demonstrate their commitment to biblical stewardship and servant leadership by addressing how their research can serve the common good and empower marginalized communities. Candidates must defend their findings before a faculty committee, articulating how their work reflects a life of integrity, spiritual formation, and the professional application of the university's values. This project ensures that graduates leave with both the intellectual capacity and the character development necessary to influence their field with wisdom and purpose.

• Graduation from the PhD program requires the successful completion of 120 credit hours, including 35 transfer credits and 85 doctoral-level credits, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Students must maintain continuous enrollment and pass all required coursework, culminating in the successful defense of their dissertation. Throughout their tenure, students are expected to engage in periodic reviews that evaluate their academic progress, personal character development, and commitment to institutional values. The degree is awarded to those who demonstrate not only technical mastery of astronomical and educational concepts but also a clear dedication to ethical integrity and servant leadership in their professional practice. Candidates must also complete established spiritual formation requirements and community service hours, which serve to bridge the gap between abstract academic achievement and practical, faith-informed service. This holistic approach ensures that each graduate is prepared for a life of professional excellence, grounded in the belief that true leadership is defined by the service rendered to others and the stewardship of the knowledge entrusted to them.
• Career Opportunities
• Director of Educational Outreach for Science Museums
• Curriculum Developer for Faith-Based Academic Institutions
• Consultant for Community-Based STEM Educational Initiatives
• University Professor of Astronomy and Science Education
• Director of Research for Non-Profit Educational Foundations
• Policy Advisor for Community Science Advocacy Groups
• 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 Astronomy
• 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 astronomy 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
• RES701 | Research Methods in Astronomy Education | 4 | None
• EDU710 | Foundations of Servant Leadership in Education | 3 | None
• AST720 | Advanced Astrophysical Concepts | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• EDU730 | Pedagogy for Diverse Populations | 3 | EDU710
• RES750 | Quantitative Data Analysis for Social Science | 3 | RES701
• AST740 | Space Literacy and Public Engagement | 3 | AST720
• ETH760 | Ethical Stewardship in Science and Technology | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES805 | Advanced Qualitative Inquiry | 3 | RES701
• EDU820 | Curriculum Design in Space Education | 3 | EDU730
• AST830 | Stellar Dynamics and Cosmic Models | 3 | AST720
• MGT850 | Organizational Leadership in Non-Profits | 3 | EDU710
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES860 | Doctoral Research Seminar | 4 | RES805
• EDU870 | Digital Learning Technologies | 3 | EDU820
• HIS880 | History of Science and Cultural Worldviews | 3 | None
• COM890 | Advanced Scholarly Communication | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS901 | Dissertation Research Phase I | 4 | RES860
• EDU910 | Advanced Practicum in Education | 3 | EDU820
• ENV920 | Environmental Ethics and Global Sustainability | 3 | None
• AST930 | Contemporary Topics in Astronomy | 3 | AST830
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS902 | Dissertation Completion and Defense | 4 | DIS901
• EDU950 | Leadership Capstone Seminar | 3 | EDU910
• SOC960 | Community Engagement and Social Policy | 3 | None
• BUS970 | Strategic Planning for Educational Growth | 3 | MGT850