M.A. in Intercultural Studies
Communicate Effectively in a Multi-Cultural World
Nelson University’s Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies degree program integrates theological, missiological, and practical training to equip graduates with skills and tools to impact diverse groups of people, especially in cross-cultural ministries. Whether you’re serving in mission work, urban church planting, education, business, or other cross-cultural environments, this program will help you develop the cultural intelligence to communicate effectively across cultures from a gospel-centered, Christian worldview.
With the M.A. in Intercultural Studies, you will learn to articulate missiological strategy, discuss a balanced philosophy of missions by emphasizing biblical and theological principles, identify the trends and theories pertaining to Spirit-inspired cross-cultural ministry, develop an administrative leadership plan for a cross-cultural context, and create a strategy for reaching a major religious group with the Gospel.
Nelson University prepares students academically and spiritually for their chosen career path. The M.A. in Intercultural Studies program lays a strong, biblical foundation for cross-cultural service and is ideal for those who want advanced training to be missionaries. This degree has an optional Thesis, designed for students who plan to continue their graduate work in a Ph.D. program.
Program
MA in Intercultural Studies
Delivery
On-Campus and Online
Degree
Master of Arts
College
Southwestern College of Bible and Church Ministries
Credit Hours
36
Cost Per Credit Hour
$430
Accreditation
SACSCOS
Career Opportunities
- Cross-cultural missionary
- Urban church planting
- Local church ministry
- Non-profit work
- Global outreach coordinator
- Education
Program Highlights
Affordability
and Value
Nelson University is dedicated to making higher education affordable and accessible to all students. With various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and flexible payment plans, the university ensures that students can receive a high-quality education without the financial burden. The university’s competitive tuition rates, combined with a focus on career readiness, make it a valuable investment for students seeking both quality and affordability.
Exemplary
Programs
Nelson University’s online programs offer the same high-quality education as its on-campus courses, allowing students to balance their studies with work and other responsibilities. These programs are designed with flexibility in mind, providing access to resources, virtual collaboration, and engaging coursework. Students in the online program can benefit from the same support and career services as those attending in person, ensuring an all-around enriching educational experience.
Christian
Faith
Nelson University integrates Christian faith into its academic curriculum and campus life, offering a Christ-centered education that encourages spiritual growth alongside academic achievement. Through chapel services, Bible studies, and opportunities for service, students are nurtured in their faith journey while being prepared for professional success. The university fosters a supportive Christian community that prioritizes both spiritual and personal development.
Key Faculty
“Intercultural Studies is one of the [insert remainder of quote here for the degree program.]”
-Rennae de Freitas, Ph.D.
Department Chair, Intercultural Studies
Admissions and Academic Support
Admissions Requirements
Applicants to the Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies must meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution
- Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- A completed application for admission
Admission decisions consider academic preparation, prior graduate coursework, and the student’s readiness for further graduate study.
Academic Support
Students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies receive guidance throughout the program design process.
NGS advisors are available to assist students in:
- Identifying appropriate concentration areas
- Structuring a degree plan aligned with long-term goals
- Navigating transfer credit and program requirements
This collaborative approach ensures that each student’s degree plan is intentional, academically sound, and goal-oriented.
Course Preview
Here is a glimpse at a few of the courses you will be taking in this program.
For a full list of courses related to this program, visit the Academic Catalog:
ICS 5133 – Cross-Cultural Leadership
In this course, students will explore the nuances of leading and working with leaders in cross-cultural contexts. Students will develop an understanding of the opportunities and challenges that diverse cultural environments bring to the leadership task, and will study the skills and factors necessary to interact effectively in such environments.
ICS 5173 – Encountering Non-Christian Religions
This course seeks to equip students with biblical theological and practical resources for responding effectively to the challenges presented to Christian witness in the twenty-first century by world religions and religious pluralism.
ICS 5513 – Intercultural Communication and Anthropology
This course seeks to equip students with knowledge of cultural contexts and barriers affecting cross-cultural Christian witness, lifestyle, and relationships. Cultural anthropological issues will be examined to determine their application to a Christian view of intercultural ministry.
Related Programs
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