Intercultural Studies Major

As an intercultural studies major at Grace College, you’ll be equipped with a foundational understanding of other cultural contexts, using your missions and ministry training to further the Kingdom of God through the Gospel — from your hometown to the ends of the earth.

At Grace, we’ve founded the intercultural studies program on the Great Commission and Jesus’ command to love our neighbor. To love our neighbor, we need to begin by knowing our neighbor. Missionaries or not, we all have a role to play in making disciples of all nations. That’s why cultural competency is a must for the Kingdom-minded Christian.

As an intercultural major, expect hands-on courses where you’ll engage not just with your professors and classmates but with the Winona Lake and Warsaw community.

The program includes foundational biblical courses and specialized classes. Your introductory courses will instruct you in the basics of Scripture, doctrine, ministry, and culture. In your specialized courses, you’ll be free to explore your passions and interests. You’ll dive into the international missions field, studying topics such as relational ministry skills, intercultural communication, cultural anthropology, Bible exposition, and world religions.

Outside of class, you’ll have several opportunities to apply what you’ve learned cross-culturally. In our annual Conference on Missions, you’ll engage with dozens of missionaries and ministry leaders through seminars, chapels, and growth groups. You’ll also complete a cross-cultural experience by taking a Go Encounter trip or spending a semester abroad!

When you graduate, you’ll be equipped to work in countless fields, including international missions and beyond. Graduates serve as missionaries, missions agency staff, community outreach workers, and church planters, but several also use their training in non-missions roles. The major can be paired with another minor, which is perfect for those who wish to operate in fields such as journalism or business overseas. 

Even if you’re not planning on working in missions or overseas, the degree is an excellent fit for those longing to be Kingdom-minded, globally competent workers for Christ.