Intercultural Studies Major: Justice and International Development Emphasis B.A.

Overview

The intercultural studies program provides students the tools needed to understand, live, work and serve within cultures different from their own. In addition to its focus on cross-cultural studies, the program also considers the nature of God's work in the world and how this shapes our efforts to develop relief and development initiatives, churches, businesses and other programs designed to bring a positive and lasting impact to peoples' lives in cross-cultural contexts. It prepares students for work in fields such as international missions, international business, non-profit and international community development, urban Christian community development, human resources, human services and social work and refugee services. In addition, the major prepares students with the breadth of knowledge needed to enter into graduate study programs in intercultural studies, international development, peace and reconciliation, international policy and other subjects.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Disciplinary Integration: Students will be able to synthesize concepts (orally and in writing) from the humanities, social sciences, biblical studies and Anabaptist and other theological traditions into holistic views of Christian mission and transformation.
2. Cultural Analysis: Students will be able to analyze diverse cultures and religious traditions.
3. Personal Formation: Students will be able to articulate the ways in which their understanding of their own spiritual formation and/or personal identity has deepened.
4. Skill Development: Students will be able to demonstrate skills (including social science research, teaching, intercultural communication, evangelism and/or leadership) that facilitate transformational development and holistic mission in cross-cultural contexts.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

Second Major/Minor Requirement

In order to fulfill the intercultural studies major, the student is required to complete one of the following:

1. A second major. This is a popular option for students who intend to pursue a career in another field (such as business, social work, education, natural science, etc.) but desire to practice their career in a cross-cultural context and/or as a part of their ministry.
2. A minor. This option allows the student who wants to focus on preparation for cross-cultural work and ministry to develop knowledge and skills in another area of interest. The TESOL minor and certificate is a popular option (if not taken as an emphasis).

Emphasis Required Courses

• PS 425 - Global Economics and Sustainable Development 3

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• SOC 410 - American Ethnicity and Pluralism 3 or
• PS 411 - Modern Latin America: History, Politics And Culture 3 or
• PS 412 - Modern Africa: History, Politics and Culture 3 or
• PS 414 - Modern Asia: History, Politics and Culture 3 or
• PS 416 - Modern Middle East: History, Politics and Culture 3