What can you do with an Intercultural Studies Degree?

In an increasingly global world, understanding different cultures and social contexts is imperative for those looking to create true transformational change. An intercultural studies degree will prepare you for an exciting career in ministry, government work, community development, and other humanitarian industries. There are many exciting career paths for intercultural studies graduates.

Palm Beach Atlantic University offers a Bachelor of Arts in intercultural studies as well as an Online Master of Arts in intercultural studies. 

Earning a degree online can be a great way to boost your salary and career prospects while maintaining a busy schedule. Our flexible online formats are perfect for full time employees, stay at home parents, or students who prefer the ability to study from home. 

Teacher (TESOL)

Graduates of intercultural studies programs can find work teaching English around the globe. Strong intercultural communications skills will allow intercultural studies graduates to thrive as language teachers.

Missions is a global outreach that requires humility and a high degree of intercultural awareness. An intercultural studies degree can help future missionaries understand the cultures they serve in.

International relations specialists consult on foreign affairs and provide insight into policy decisions. International relations specialists need to have a keen understanding of many cultures and their histories.

Many churches are diverse bodies with members from many different cultures. Graduates of intercultural studies programs who go on to work in churches will be able to help create strong church communities that celebrate all members of the church body.

Community developers identify the needs of local communities and use their expert knowledge of local history and culture to develop policies and interventions. Community developers will need strong communication and analytical reasoning skills.

Public policy is one of the most common ways governments attempt to intervene in, and ideally improve, societies. Policy analysts can assess the potential impact of a policy and may be alert to unforeseen consequences.

House parents take responsibility for groups of children or young people who live in an institutional setting. House parents will benefit from the empathy and understanding gained in an intercultural studies degree.

War, natural disasters, and unrest can cause people around the world to become temporarily or permanently displaced. Refugee resettlement specialists advocate for refugees and help them start new lives in new communities.

Diplomats are well-known for their ability to work between multiple cultures. Diplomats will benefit from speaking multiple languages, having strong communication skills, and an understanding of international policy.

Students looking to make a difference in the world should consider becoming humanitarian aid workers. Humanitarian aid workers go to places of extreme need and distribute vital goods such as food, water, and medical care.

A liaison is a bridge between two individuals, groups, or parties, so a cultural liaison works in the space between cultures. Cultural liaisons need to be able to hold multiple perspectives simultaneously and communicate clearly.

Peace corps volunteers give their time and energy to work alongside locals on humanitarian projects. Peace corps volunteers will gain a wealth of intercultural experience that can enrich their perspectives on the world.

Non-government organization (NGO) workers contribute to a wide range of humanitarian causes supported around the world. Earning a degree in intercultural studies can prepare students to lead intercultural teams.

Earning a degree in international studies can benefit graduates in any industry. One survey found that 81% of international recruiters consider cross-cultural competence and communication to be the single most important skill that applicants should have.

One of the best ways to practice intercultural studies skills is to travel to new places and experience new cultures. There are many benefits of studying abroad, including learning a new language, opening your worldview, and meeting new people. PBA’s Rinker Center for Experiential Learning offers over 30 international opportunities every year.