Intercultural Studies, B.A

California Baptist University

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Intercultural Studies is an undergraduate program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of cultural diversity, global interactions, and the dynamics of cross-cultural communication. This program explores how cultures interact in a globalized world, focusing on the challenges and opportunities that arise in intercultural exchanges.

Program Summary:

The Intercultural Studies, B.A. program prepares students to work effectively in diverse cultural environments. It equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and navigate cultural differences, fostering positive relationships and promoting global citizenship. The curriculum covers various aspects of cultural theory, global issues, and the ways in which culture shapes human behavior, communication, and societal structures.

Key areas of study often include:

1. Cultural Theory and Analysis: Understanding the theoretical frameworks used to analyze culture and cultural practices, including anthropological, sociological, and historical perspectives.
2. Cross-Cultural Communication: Developing skills in communication across cultural boundaries, learning to navigate language differences, non-verbal cues, and communication styles.
3. Globalization: Studying the impacts of globalization on cultural exchange, including the spread of technology, migration, and global economic and political systems.
4. Cultural Identity and Diversity: Exploring concepts of identity, ethnicity, race, gender, and nationality, and how these factors shape personal and group experiences in a global context.
5. Intercultural Competence: Building the ability to work effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds, both in personal and professional settings.
6. International Relations: Understanding the role of culture in diplomacy, international organizations, and global conflicts, as well as how cultural differences impact global politics.
7. Ethnographic Research: Gaining skills in ethnographic fieldwork, learning to observe and analyze cultural practices and communities.
8. Global Social Issues: Examining current global challenges such as poverty, migration, human rights, environmental issues, and conflict, and how they intersect with cultural dynamics.
9. Cultural Exchange Programs: Participating in or studying abroad programs to gain first-hand experience of living and working in different cultural settings.
10. Language Studies: Often including the study of one or more foreign languages to enhance communication skills and cultural understanding.

Graduates of the Intercultural Studies, B.A. program are well-equipped for careers in international relations, diplomacy, cultural exchange programs, NGOs, global business, and education. They may also pursue graduate studies in areas such as anthropology, sociology, international development, or global studies.