Intercultural Studies

BACHELOR OF arts

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. Students 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.

Concentration
Optional TESOL Concentration

About the Program
Interesting Courses
Student Learning Outcomes
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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.

Global Christianity

ICS 305

A general survey of the redemptive activity of God in the world—past, present, and future.

Global and Urban Ministries

ICS 410

This course studies the biblical and theological foundations of global missions alongside mission strategies applied in global and urban settings.

Intercultural Communication and Practice

ICS 430

This course will address principles and processes of communication from one culture to another.

Student Learning Outcomes

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.

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.

Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

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Career Opportunities

Church Planter
Missionary
Nonprofit Ministry Director
Social Justice Advocate
International Teacher
International Relations Specialist
Church Outreach Director

*Some career opportunities may require further education

36

Units

1

Optional Concentration

100%

Student Testimonials

"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, 2021

"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, 2019

Alumni Spotlight

"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, 2016

"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, 2013

Meet Some of Our Faculty

Damon Horton

Program Director of Intercultural Studies

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Amy Stumpf

Professor of Religion and Society

I grew up in a Buddhist country in Southeast Asia where my parents worked with relief and development programs serving orphans and abandoned children in slums, refugee camps and brothels. I hated feeling helpless to solve problems, so I decided to learn what is working to bring restoration and renewal to broken communities. In my work, I have lobbied for better policies in Washington, D.C., helped resettle refugees, worked with the poor to help them gain dignity and joy, and now, I teach students how to make the world a better place.

See Profile >

Damon Horton

Program Director of Intercultural Studies

See Profile >
Amy Stumpf

Professor of Religion and Society

I grew up in a Buddhist country in Southeast Asia where my parents worked with relief and development programs serving orphans and abandoned children in slums, refugee camps and brothels. I hated feeling helpless to solve problems, so I decided to learn what is working to bring restoration and renewal to broken communities. In my work, I have lobbied for better policies in Washington, D.C., helped resettle refugees, worked with the poor to help them gain dignity and joy, and now, I teach students how to make the world a better place.

See Profile >