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  2. Traditional Undergraduate
  3. Intercultural Studies

Intercultural Studies Department

Degree:

Bachelor of Arts

Major:

Intercultural Studies

Minor:

Global Studies

Contact:

Dr. Kristen White, Chair
601-973-5021
kkwhite@belhaven.edu

A Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies provides a foundation to understand other cultures and see how God’s word impacts the world. Under the umbrella of Belhaven University’s international studies program, the degree in intercultural studies equips students who want to pursue international service or community development. Since intercultural studies has fewer course units than the international studies degree, it also makes a good double major for students who want to be prepared to practice any profession overseas.

In intercultural studies major studies anthropology, language acquisition skills, comparative religions and a survey of globalization and culture. The intercultural studies degree program also includes in-depth courses in Bible, theology and ministry. Three hours of cross-cultural experience is required, and this can usually be fulfilled by completing a short-term service-learning practicum.

What will I study?

  • Intercultural Communication
  • Current Global Trends and Geography
  • World Religions
  • Linguistics and Language Acquisition Skills
  • Ethnographic Research
  • Global Social Responsibility and Transcultural Ministry

What can I do with an Intercultural Studies degree?

  • Address social justice issues in marginalized communities
  • Communicate in culturally appropriate ways in various settings
  • Teach English as a second language or intercultural studies in higher education
  • Serve in ministry both locally or globally

Why choose Intercultural Studies at Belhaven University?

  • Global Service-Learning Practicum – 3 weeks overseas during a summer
    • Note: Semester Abroad is an optional substitution but not required.
  • Biblical worldview infused throughout the curriculum
  • The integration of faith, learning, and living both in and out of the classroom
  • Mentored in a learning community comprised of peers and professors

What kind of opportunities will I have in my major that will contribute toward my career?

  • Many of the courses require an experiential learning component that encourages students to interact with people from other cultures to:
    • Cultivate their appreciation for diversity and multi-cultural environments.
    • Demonstrate their cross-cultural competency skills – including problem-solving, conflict resolution, and adaptability.
    • Develop their lifelong skills of leadership, professionalism, and integrity.
  • Capstone Project – The major culminates with a final paper and presentation of a student’s research that incorporates one’s future career goals and facilitates a possible pathway forward to achievement.
  • With only 45 hours in the major, students are strongly encouraged to add a minor that will easily fit into the required 124 hours to graduate. Popular minors combined with an intercultural studies major include:
    • Sociology
    • Psychology
    • Dance, Creative Writing, or Music
    • Biblical Studies

What are Belhaven Intercultural Studies graduates doing now?

  • Graduate school
  • Church staff – minister, mobilizer
  • Community development
  • Serving with a sending agency overseas
  • Teaching English as a second language