Program Overview
The Intercultural Studies Program (formerly the Missions Program) provides the opportunity to either major or minor in Intercultural Studies. The program begins by addressing the cross-cultural minister, attending to one’s spiritual growth, and nurturing one’s call to Christian service. Secondly a strong biblical foundation accompanies all areas of learning, such as intercultural communication, cultural and religious diversity, historical and contemporary frameworks of cross-cultural ministry, and practical skills needed for effective cross-cultural service.
Asbury University’s Intercultural Studies program is grounded in a Christian faith perspective. If a student is looking for a program that integrates their faith with the study of intercultural dynamics, Asbury provides an environment that aligns with those values. Asbury’s program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of intercultural topics, from cross-cultural communication to global issues.
The faculty in Asbury’s Intercultural Studies program have extensive experience and expertise in the field. Their guidance and mentorship, along with opportunities to serve cross-culturally, greatly benefits students in their academic and career pursuits. Asbury University is known for its close-knit and supportive community. This sense of community within the Intercultural Studies program can provide students with a strong support system throughout their academic journey. Asbury emphasizes character development and values, which can lead to personal and spiritual growth. Students looking for an education that goes beyond academics to nurture their moral compass and sense of purpose may find this particularly appealing.
Because the global scene is so diverse and cultural and social change is our contemporary context, the Intercultural Studies Major builds upon an interdisciplinary blend of courses in Bible, Christian Ministries, the Social Sciences, Missions and Missiology. It prepares you for cross-cultural ministry by offering a range of intercultural opportunities to serve from international settings to ethnically diverse environments in the United States. The program allows you to investigate various models of mission from the time-honored to the innovative that seek to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the peoples of the world.
Within the regular academic curriculum are opportunities for you to pursue an individual calling to particular ethnic/linguistic peoples and to pursue particular types of ministry. Many students choose to use a second major or minor in another area to prepare for the skill set they will need for following their call. These include majors and minors in world languages, social work, sociology, psychology, education, and pre-medicine.
The Intercultural Studies Program offers unique opportunity for overseas Internship and studies. These real-world experiences can be instrumental in developing practical skills and cultural sensitivity.
Intercultural Studies graduates have been hired to work on projects and programs like:
Some of these require additional training at the graduate level, but the Intercultural Studies Major will provide a solid foundation for them all. The possibilities are endless.
admissions@asbury.edu
(859) 858-5000