Intercultural Studies, BA
More than 3 billion people live in poverty. Students in the intercultural studies program develop a personal strategy to serve these underdeveloped communities around the world.
Program Intro
Students in CBU's intercultural studies program find where the world’s needs meet their passions, and professors show students how to translate their passion into something useful. The program provides a decidedly biblical worldview for the study of and engagement in culture and society through discipleship, evangelism, justice ministries and community development.
Why Study Intercultural Studies at CBU?
Take part in immersion experiences
CBU offers a number of opportunities to travel abroad. Locally, students visit religious centers and can participate in service projects like teaching English to refugees, serving in homeless ministries or playing sports with incarcerated youth. Our location in the Inland Empire provides access to diverse ethnic and economic populations where students are exposed to the world right in their backyard.
Gain transferrable skills
Students won’t just learn about cultures, they’ll learn how to communicate cross-culturally, how to problem solve and advocate for communities. These soft skills can be applied in almost any industry, especially in education, government and health. Some of our alumni found jobs with International Justice Mission, International Mission Board, various churches, and local homeless and refugee advocacy organizations.
Learn from faculty who care
The intercultural studies program is flexible enough for students to tailor it to their unique goals. Professors care about each student and will talk with them about what they want to do and guide them into the classes that will get them there. Some special-topic courses include ones on poverty, refugees and Islam in Africa.
What You'll Learn
Upon completion of the intercultural studies program, graduates will:
- Have a biblical and theological understanding of the global context of the Christian faith.
- Have a biblical and theological understanding of the gospel, discipleship, the kingdom of God, and the church.
- Identify models of social engagement and strategies appropriate to the expected professional arena.
- Understand the basic elements of culture and worldview.
- Connect their knowledge of international political, social, and economic issues with biblical/ethical responses.
- Experience integrated learning of content, skill, and character through an internship or study abroad.
Program Details
ICS 305: Global Christianity
A general survey of the redemptive activity of God in the world—past, present, and future.
ICS 410: Global and Urban Ministries
This course studies the biblical and theological foundations of global missions alongside mission strategies applied in global and urban settings.
ICS 430: Intercultural Communication and Practice
This course will address principles and processes of communication from one culture to another.
- TESOL Concentration
Damon Horton, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Intercultural Studies
Director, Intercultural Studies program
Office Phone: 951-343-4296
E-mail: dhorton@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: YCTR B216
My major in intercultural studies prepared me for interacting with and living among a new and different culture. I was offered a job at ICS-Lima (Peru) as a second-grade teacher, and I recently signed a two-year contract to continue my time here. I often look back at my time at CBU and wonder where I would be if God had not led me there.
Ashley Ramming '13
Fifth Grade Teacher, International Christian School of Lima
I am a site manager of a family shelter where I case manage families to help bring stability in their lives. At CBU, I learned about practices in social change that have and haven’t worked. That is beneficial in going back to figuring out the best way to run a program.
Annabel Koher '16
Site Manager, Family Shelter Services
I chose my major because it brings me the closest to serving others. I hope to work for organizations that prevent human trafficking. I love that the professors here are very knowledgeable and that the program offers service trips.
Amanda Kurowski '21
I chose my major because of my interest in social justice, fighting against human trafficking, and understanding the unique cultures around the world. The professors in the ICS department constantly amaze me in their knowledge, experience, and compassion for their students. They have taught me so much about God's purpose and the practical needs and solutions for the oppressed in our world.
Kierra Jones '19
Career Possibilities
Graduates of CBU's intercultural studies program will be well prepared for various intercultural roles. Some careers listed below may require further education.
- Missions Pastor
- Missionary
- International Teacher
- International Relations Specialist
- Church Planter
- Nonprofit Ministry Director
- Church Outreach Director
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.