Master of Arts in Faith-Based Aviation Management, Specialization in Air Transport Humanitarian Aid

Degree abbreviation

M.A. in Faith-Based Aviation Management

Total program length

60 graduate semester credit hours

Normal completion time

Two academic years of full-time study

Academic unit

HBIU College of Aviation

Total credits

60

Duration

2 years

• Analyze the strategic and operational challenges of air transport within humanitarian aid contexts, applying principles of faith-based stewardship.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of aviation management decisions in humanitarian and faith-based missions, drawing upon Christian ethical frameworks.
• Develop comprehensive management plans for humanitarian air transport operations, integrating principles of servant leadership and organizational efficiency.
• Demonstrate an understanding of global aviation regulations and their impact on humanitarian relief efforts.
• Integrate principles of spiritual formation and a Christian worldview into leadership practices within aviation management.
• Communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including international aid agencies, local communities, and operational teams, in a culturally sensitive manner.
• Apply research methodologies to investigate critical issues in faith-based aviation management and humanitarian logistics.
• Design and propose innovative solutions for improving the delivery of humanitarian aid through aviation, grounded in academic research and faith-informed principles.
• Course Outline
• Semester 1 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT501
• Foundations of Aviation Management
• 3
• None
• MGT503
• Principles of Servant Leadership
• 3
• None
• BUS505
• Professional Ethics and Resource Management
• 3
• None
• RES500
• Graduate Research Methods
• 3
• None
• MGT501 — Foundations of Aviation Management: This course provides an overview of the aviation industry, including its historical development, economic drivers, and regulatory structures. Students will explore various sectors of aviation and their operational principles. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT503 — Principles of Servant Leadership: Examines the philosophy and practice of servant leadership, focusing on ethical decision-making, empowering others, and fostering a culture of service. Emphasis is placed on applying these principles in organizational settings. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• BUS505 — Professional Ethics and Resource Management: This course examines ethical frameworks in professional organizational decision-making and the responsible allocation of institutional resources. Students evaluate accountability practices and regulatory compliance within the nonprofit and private sectors. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• RES500 — Graduate Research Methods: Introduces students to the fundamental principles and methodologies of graduate-level research. Topics include literature reviews, research design, data collection, and analysis techniques pertinent to management and social sciences. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 2 — Year 1
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT510
• Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management
• 4
• MGT501
• COM502
• Intercultural Communication for Global Service
• 3
• None
• MGT520
• Financial Management for Non-Profit Organizations
• 3
• THE505
• AVI515
• Air Transport Operations and Safety
• 3
• MGT501
• MGT510 — Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management: This course focuses on the complexities of managing supply chains in humanitarian contexts, emphasizing efficiency, resilience, and ethical considerations in the distribution of aid. Students will examine global logistics networks and disaster response mechanisms. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• COM502 — Intercultural Communication for Global Service: Develops essential intercultural communication skills for effective engagement in diverse global settings. Students will explore cultural differences, communication barriers, and strategies for building trust and rapport with international stakeholders. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT520 — Financial Management for Non-Profit Organizations: Covers financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting specific to non-profit and faith-based organizations. Emphasis is placed on transparency, accountability, and sustainable financial stewardship. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• AVI515 — Air Transport Operations and Safety: Examines the operational aspects of air transport, including fleet management, air traffic control interfaces, airport operations, and safety management systems. Special attention is given to the application of these principles in challenging environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 3 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• AVI525
• Aviation Policy and Regulation in Humanitarian Aid
• 3
• AVI515
• MGT601
• Organizational Behavior and Human Resources in Mission Settings
• 3
• MGT503
• MGT610
• Project Management for Humanitarian Operations
• 4
• MGT510
• AVI600
• Strategic Aviation Management and Organizational Leadership
• 3
• MGT501, THE505
• AVI525 — Aviation Policy and Regulation in Humanitarian Aid: Analyzes the international and national policies, regulations, and legal frameworks governing aviation, with a specific focus on their application to humanitarian aid and relief operations. Students will examine compliance challenges and advocacy strategies. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT601 — Organizational Behavior and Human Resources in Mission Settings: Explores principles of organizational behavior and human resource management tailored for faith-based and humanitarian organizations. Focuses on motivation, team dynamics, conflict resolution, and ethical HR practices in diverse operational contexts. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT610 — Project Management for Humanitarian Operations: Provides a comprehensive understanding of project management methodologies, tools, and techniques applied to humanitarian assistance and development projects. Students will learn to plan, execute, monitor, and close projects effectively. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• AVI600 — Strategic Aviation Management and Organizational Leadership: This course explores advanced management strategies for complex aviation operations within global humanitarian and disaster relief contexts. Students analyze organizational leadership models and resource optimization to maximize impact in remote or underserved operational environments. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• Semester 4 — Year 2
• Code
• Title
• Credits
• Prerequisites
• MGT700
• Thesis/Capstone Project I
• 3
• RES500, MGT610
• MGT701
• Thesis/Capstone Project II
• 6
• MGT700
• AVI702
• Global Aviation and Humanitarian Response Seminar
• 3
• AVI600, MGT610
• MGT702
• Thesis/Capstone Project Completion and Defense
• 3
• MGT701
• MGT700 — Thesis/Capstone Project I: Students will develop a detailed research proposal or project plan under the guidance of a faculty advisor. This involves refining research questions, conducting preliminary literature reviews, and establishing methodological frameworks. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT701 — Thesis/Capstone Project II: Students will execute their research proposal or project plan, collect and analyze data, and begin drafting their thesis or capstone report. This phase requires significant independent work and regular consultation with faculty advisors. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• AVI702 — Global Aviation and Humanitarian Response Seminar: A seminar designed to synthesize knowledge gained throughout the program, focusing on current trends, challenges, and innovations in global aviation and humanitarian response. Students will engage in critical discussions and present their capstone progress. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.
• MGT702 — Thesis/Capstone Project Completion and Defense: Students will finalize their thesis or capstone project, preparing it for submission and formal defense before a faculty committee. This course emphasizes scholarly writing, presentation skills, and the integration of program learning outcomes. This course prepares students in supporting faith-based, nonprofit, community organizations' missions.

Applicants seeking admission to the Master of Arts in Faith-Based Aviation Management, Specialization in Air Transport Humanitarian Aid, must hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants are encouraged to have a background in aviation, business, management, or a related field, though comprehensive experience will be considered. Submission of official transcripts, a statement of purpose detailing career goals and interest in faith-based aviation, two letters of recommendation, and a resume are required. International applicants must also provide proof of English language proficiency. Thesis or Capstone Project The culminating academic experience for the Master of Arts in Faith-Based Aviation Management is a comprehensive thesis or capstone project. This project allows students to delve deeply into a specific area of faith-based aviation management or air transport humanitarian aid, demonstrating their mastery of program concepts and their ability to conduct advanced scholarly inquiry. The purpose is to synthesize learning, apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, and contribute to the field through original research or a detailed operational plan. Students will work closely with a faculty advisor to define their research question or project scope, which must align with the program's emphasis on ethical leadership, stewardship, and humanitarian service. The project is expected to integrate a Christian worldview, reflecting on how principles of servant leadership, biblical stewardship, and spiritual formation inform decision-making and operational strategies within aviation contexts. Deliverables typically include a formal written thesis or a detailed project proposal and report, presented and defended before a faculty committee. This rigorous undertaking assesses both academic competence and the development of a faith-informed character prepared for impactful service.

• To be eligible for graduation from the Master of Arts in Faith-Based Aviation Management, Specialization in Air Transport Humanitarian Aid, students must successfully complete all 60 credit hours of coursework as outlined in the program. A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale must be maintained throughout the program. Successful completion and defense of the thesis or capstone project is a mandatory requirement.
• Beyond academic achievements, graduates are expected to demonstrate spiritual maturity and a commitment to ethical service. This is often evidenced through participation in designated faith-based formation activities, such as community service projects, spiritual retreats, or engagement in local faith communities, reflecting the program's dedication to nurturing individuals who exemplify Christ-like character. Graduating students will have not only achieved academic excellence but also cultivated the spiritual and ethical foundations necessary for transformative leadership in faith-informed aviation endeavors.
• Career Opportunities
• Humanitarian Logistics Manager
• Operations Director for Faith-Based NGOs
• Air Transport Coordinator for Disaster Relief Agencies
• Program Manager for International Aid Aviation
• Flight Operations Supervisor in Mission Aviation
• Aviation Safety Officer for Humanitarian Organizations
• Non-profit Aviation Resource Manager
• Field Operations Coordinator for Global Health Initiatives
• 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 | M.A. in Faith-Based Aviation Management
• Total program length | 60 graduate semester credit hours
• Normal completion time | Two academic years of full-time study
• Advanced Faith-Based Aviation Management core | 27 credit hours
• Research, assessment, and program evaluation | 12 credit hours
• Professional application and field experience | 12 credit hours
• Graduate capstone requirement | 9 credit hours
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT501 | Foundations of Aviation Management | 3 | None
• MGT503 | Principles of Servant Leadership | 3 | None
• BUS505 | Professional Ethics and Resource Management | 3 | None
• RES500 | Graduate Research Methods | 3 | None
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT510 | Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management | 4 | MGT501
• COM502 | Intercultural Communication for Global Service | 3 | None
• MGT520 | Financial Management for Non-Profit Organizations | 3 | THE505
• AVI515 | Air Transport Operations and Safety | 3 | MGT501
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• AVI525 | Aviation Policy and Regulation in Humanitarian Aid | 3 | AVI515
• MGT601 | Organizational Behavior and Human Resources in Mission Settings | 3 | MGT503
• MGT610 | Project Management for Humanitarian Operations | 4 | MGT510
• AVI600 | Strategic Aviation Management and Organizational Leadership | 3 | MGT501, THE505
• Code | Title | Credits | Prerequisites
• MGT700 | Thesis/Capstone Project I | 3 | RES500, MGT610
• MGT701 | Thesis/Capstone Project II | 6 | MGT700
• AVI702 | Global Aviation and Humanitarian Response Seminar | 3 | AVI600, MGT610
• MGT702 | Thesis/Capstone Project Completion and Defense | 3 | MGT701