Intercultural Studies Program
What does Randall's Intercultural Studies Degree have to offer?
The Intercultural Studies Program exists to equip its graduates to effectively respond to and serve men and women of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds in our global twenty-first century. The program includes studies in general education, philosophy, social sciences, cross-cultural communication, leadership, humanities, and theology. The relationship between ideas learned and practical experience is essential, therefore experiential learning is woven throughout the degree program, with both formal and non-formal active learning opportunities. Emphasis on personal holistic growth and development is intentionally interwoven into the program.
Our current geopolitical situation has led to a growing need in academia and the world at large for an Intercultural Studies degree instead of the traditional 'mission' degree. First, for those students wanting to minister in their homeland, the world has come to the United States. Second, easier access to those 'closed' and 'hard to reach' places can be gained by those with an Intercultural Studies degree, rather than the Bible & Mission degrees of days gone by. Opportunities abound for ministry and non-ministry students to find their place of service and work in cross-cultural settings.
Opportunities with an Intercultural Studies degree:
Cross-cultural workers in national and international locations, Traditional church-planting missionaries, Bible Translators, International Aid workers, Inner-City workers with immigrants and refugees, TESOL leaders and workers.
Program Details
The Intercultural Studies Program exists to equip its graduates to effectively respond to and serve men and women of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds in our global twenty-first century. The program includes studies in general education, philosophy, social sciences, cross-cultural communication, leadership, humanities, and theology. The relationship between ideas learned and practical experience are essential, therefore, experiential learning is woven throughout the degree program, with both formal and non-formal active learning opportunities. Emphasis on personal holistic growth and development is intentionally interwoven into the program.
- Theological and Biblical Foundation: To equip students with a profound understanding of the Bible, Christian theology, and historical perspectives, enabling them to articulate and apply Christian truths in diverse cultural and international contexts.
- Cross-cultural Competency: To develop students’ ability to understand, appreciate, and engage with diverse cultures, religions, and worldviews, fostering effective cross-cultural
communication and building bridges of understanding in mission settings. - Mission Strategies and Methods: To provide students with knowledge of various mission methodologies and strategies, enabling them to discern and implement contextually appropriate approaches in their respective mission fields.
- Personal and Spiritual Formation: To cultivate a deep spiritual and moral character in students, preparing them for the unique challenges of overseas ministry, emphasizing virtues such as resilience, compassion, humility, and adaptability.
- Practical Ministry Experience: To ensure students acquire hands-on experience in ministry settings, both domestically and internationally, thus preparing them for real-world missionary
endeavors and promoting a reflective practice of ministry.
"But make sure in your hearts that Christ is Lord. Always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks you about the hope you have. Be ready to give the reason for it. But do it gently and with respect."
1 Peter 3:15