Doctor of Philosophy in Faith-Based Music Production, Specialization in Theater

Degree abbreviation

Ph.D. in Faith-Based Music Production, Specialization in Theater

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 Performing Arts

Total credits

120

Duration

3 years

• Analyze complex acoustic and theatrical performance frameworks using advanced interdisciplinary research methodologies.
• Evaluate the impact of creative production on community wellness and cultural formation.
• Design original large-scale theatrical projects that demonstrate mastery of technical, artistic, and ethical principles.
• Apply principles of servant leadership and stewardship to the management of music and theater production environments.
• Integrate advanced biblical and philosophical ethical frameworks into professional artistic decision-making.
• Communicate original scholarly findings regarding the role of arts in community development through formal academic channels.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES701
• Advanced Research Methodologies in the Arts
• 4
• None
• THE705
• Advanced Theatrical Direction and Theory
• 3
• None
• MIN710
• Stewardship and Ethics in Artistic Leadership
• 3
• None
• RES701 — Advanced Research Methodologies in the Arts: This course covers quantitative and qualitative research designs applicable to music and theater production. It focuses on literature review development and thesis formulation. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE705 — Advanced Theatrical Direction and Theory: Examines advanced concepts in theatrical staging, narrative structure, and directing practice. Focuses on the intersection of aesthetics and community engagement. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MIN710 — Stewardship and Ethics in Artistic Leadership: Explores ethical theories and stewardship models applied to the management of creative resources. Encourages the development of a servant-leadership framework. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES702
• Applied Statistical Analysis for Creative Arts
• 3
• RES701
• THE715
• Advanced Acoustic Production in Theater
• 4
• THE705
• MGT720
• Management of Non-Profit Performing Arts
• 3
• None
• SOC725
• Sociology of Culture and Social Engagement
• 3
• None
• RES702 — Applied Statistical Analysis for Creative Arts: Instruction in advanced statistical methods used to assess the impact of creative programs. Emphasizes the evaluation of data for community improvement projects. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE715 — Advanced Acoustic Production in Theater: Examines the technical integration of audio production within theatrical environments. Focuses on sound design, live mixing, and acoustics for community theaters. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT720 — Management of Non-Profit Performing Arts: Focuses on the administrative aspects of leading non-profit arts organizations. Covers budgeting, fundraising, and organizational governance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC725 — Sociology of Culture and Social Engagement: This course examines the intersection of cultural values and societal development within contemporary public spheres. Students analyze theoretical frameworks for community engagement and the impact of cultural initiatives on public discourse. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES801
• Advanced Seminar in Creative Research
• 3
• RES702
• THE805
• Contemporary Dramaturgy and Production
• 4
• THE715
• THE810
• Specialized Audio Engineering for Theater
• 3
• THE715
• EDU815
• Pedagogy in Higher Education Arts
• 3
• None
• RES801 — Advanced Seminar in Creative Research: An in-depth analysis of current academic discourse in the field of arts production. Students analyze emerging trends and develop original research inquiries. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE805 — Contemporary Dramaturgy and Production: Focuses on the evolution of contemporary drama and the practical application of dramaturgy in production. Emphasizes community-centered narrative selection. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE810 — Specialized Audio Engineering for Theater: Advanced practical training in studio and live audio engineering technologies. Addresses acoustics and technical challenges in non-traditional theater venues. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• EDU815 — Pedagogy in Higher Education Arts: Explores teaching strategies and instructional design for postsecondary arts instruction. Emphasizes mentorship and inclusive education. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• RES820
• Advanced Dissertation Proposal Development
• 3
• RES801
• THE825
• Collaborative Arts Production Leadership
• 4
• MGT720
• COM830
• Communication and Artistic Promotion
• 3
• None
• ART835
• Advanced Philosophy of Aesthetics and Design
• 3
• CHR725
• RES820 — Advanced Dissertation Proposal Development: Guided research session dedicated to the completion of the dissertation prospectus. Emphasizes rigorous methodology and ethical compliance. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE825 — Collaborative Arts Production Leadership: Focuses on the dynamics of collaborative artistic leadership and team management. Emphasizes the development of community-focused creative teams. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM830 — Communication and Artistic Promotion: Strategic approaches to arts promotion and institutional communication. Addresses the role of media in advancing community-focused artistic mission. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• ART835 — Advanced Philosophy of Aesthetics and Design: This course provides an intensive investigation into philosophical theories of beauty and the critical analysis of artistic expression throughout history. It evaluates how visual and auditory design principles shape modern perception and institutional branding. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 5 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS850
• Dissertation Research and Fieldwork I
• 3
• RES820
• THE855
• Advanced Studies in Performance History
• 3
• None
• RES860
• Grant Writing and Institutional Resource Development
• 4
• MGT720
• THE865
• Innovative Production Technologies in Theater
• 3
• THE810
• DIS850 — Dissertation Research and Fieldwork I: Initial phase of the doctoral dissertation involving data collection, artistic creation, or field research. Emphasizes rigorous adherence to original research goals. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE855 — Advanced Studies in Performance History: Comprehensive review of performance history with a focus on its application to modern, community-based theatrical settings. Encourages critical analysis of historical production techniques. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES860 — Grant Writing and Institutional Resource Development: Focuses on the development of grant proposals for artistic and community-based projects. Addresses donor relations and resource sustainability. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE865 — Innovative Production Technologies in Theater: Survey of emerging technologies in theatrical production, including digital workflows and visual media integration. Focuses on accessibility and technical efficiency. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 6 — Year 3
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• DIS890
• Dissertation Finalization and Defense
• 7
• DIS850
• THE895
• Professional Practice Seminar
• 3
• None
• SOC898
• Social Change and Arts Advocacy
• 3
• None
• CAP899
• Leadership in Non-Profit Organizations
• 3
• None
• DIS890 — Dissertation Finalization and Defense: Final completion of the dissertation manuscript and formal oral defense. Demonstrates the scholar's ability to synthesize advanced theory with creative practice in a faith-informed manner. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• THE895 — Professional Practice Seminar: Review of ethical professional standards and preparation for doctoral-level leadership roles. Focuses on career integration and ongoing professional development. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• SOC898 — Social Change and Arts Advocacy: Analysis of the artist's role as a change agent in contemporary society. Focuses on advocacy, public policy, and community impact. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• CAP899 — Leadership in Non-Profit Organizations: Focuses on the application of leadership theory in complex, organizational environments. Addresses the integration of mission and administrative strategy. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants must hold an earned Master of Arts or Master of Fine Arts in a related field from an accredited institution. Admission requirements include a cumulative graduate GPA of at least 3.0, submission of a scholarly writing sample, an artistic portfolio of original work, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining the applicant's commitment to scholarly inquiry and ethical contribution to the field. Dissertation Requirement The dissertation serves as the capstone experience for this PhD, requiring the student to produce a significant, original contribution to the scholarship of music production and theater. Candidates are expected to conduct primary research or mount a creative project that addresses a substantive problem or innovation in the field, supported by an extensive written analysis that connects the creative work to theoretical, historical, and ethical inquiries. This project must demonstrate both deep academic competence and the candidate’s ability to articulate their work within the context of a faith-based worldview, emphasizing themes of stewardship and moral character. The dissertation concludes with a formal defense before a faculty committee, ensuring the work adheres to the university's standards for intellectual rigor and vocational integrity. This 10-credit requirement ensures that graduates demonstrate the capacity for independent scholarly work that informs their future service to community-oriented institutions.

• Graduation requires the successful completion of 120 total credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. In addition to rigorous academic course completion, students must successfully defend their dissertation and demonstrate continued growth through documented participation in community engagement activities and spiritual formation workshops. These requirements ensure that graduates exhibit both professional excellence and the character traits necessary for high-level service in nonprofit and faith-based settings. The culmination of this degree confirms that the scholar has achieved the academic maturity and moral clarity required to serve as a leader in their community.
• Career Opportunities
• Performing Arts Director for Nonprofit Organizations
• Music Production Consultant for Faith-Based Media
• Theatrical Arts Administrator
• College-Level Arts Faculty
• Community Arts Programming Coordinator
• Director of Creative Ministries
• Sound and Stage Production Researcher
• 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 Music Production, Specialization in Theater
• 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 music production 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 | Advanced Research Methodologies in the Arts | 4 | None
• THE705 | Advanced Theatrical Direction and Theory | 3 | None
• MIN710 | Stewardship and Ethics in Artistic Leadership | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES702 | Applied Statistical Analysis for Creative Arts | 3 | RES701
• THE715 | Advanced Acoustic Production in Theater | 4 | THE705
• MGT720 | Management of Non-Profit Performing Arts | 3 | None
• SOC725 | Sociology of Culture and Social Engagement | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES801 | Advanced Seminar in Creative Research | 3 | RES702
• THE805 | Contemporary Dramaturgy and Production | 4 | THE715
• THE810 | Specialized Audio Engineering for Theater | 3 | THE715
• EDU815 | Pedagogy in Higher Education Arts | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• RES820 | Advanced Dissertation Proposal Development | 3 | RES801
• THE825 | Collaborative Arts Production Leadership | 4 | MGT720
• COM830 | Communication and Artistic Promotion | 3 | None
• ART835 | Advanced Philosophy of Aesthetics and Design | 3 | CHR725
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS850 | Dissertation Research and Fieldwork I | 3 | RES820
• THE855 | Advanced Studies in Performance History | 3 | None
• RES860 | Grant Writing and Institutional Resource Development | 4 | MGT720
• THE865 | Innovative Production Technologies in Theater | 3 | THE810
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• DIS890 | Dissertation Finalization and Defense | 7 | DIS850
• THE895 | Professional Practice Seminar | 3 | None
• SOC898 | Social Change and Arts Advocacy | 3 | None
• CAP899 | Leadership in Non-Profit Organizations | 3 | None