Intercultural Studies Program Highlights
The Intercultural Studies co-major* at Mount Vernon Nazarene University emphasizes immersive, real-world experience that prepares students for cross-cultural engagement. Through practicums, travel opportunities, and service learning both in the U.S. and abroad, students actively apply classroom knowledge in diverse cultural settings. These hands-on experiences help students develop practical skills in communication, adaptability, and cultural understanding while working alongside communities and organizations around the world.
Faith is woven into every aspect of the Intercultural Studies program at MVNU. Students explore global cultures through a Christ-centered lens, with coursework and experiences grounded in Scripture, prayer, and Christian ethical reflection. This integration helps students not only grow academically but also deepen their spiritual formation as they learn to live out their faith in meaningful, cross-cultural ways.
Our travel and study-afar programs let you grow in your faith while experiencing new cultures. Through serving in communities across the U.S. or abroad, you’ll deepen your compassion, explore your callings, and gain meaningful experience for your résumé.
Why Choose MVNU
Students in the Intercultural Studies co-major* can expect a flexible, interdisciplinary program that combines academic study with practical global engagement. The curriculum draws from fields like anthropology, cross-cultural communication, and missions to prepare students for a wide range of careers and service opportunities. Whether pursuing work in ministry, business, healthcare, or social impact fields, graduates are equipped with the tools to thrive in a globally connected world while serving others with purpose.
*The term "co-major" indicates that students would complete the intercultural studies major in conjunction with a primary major while studying at MVNU. This co-major complements the primary major, which provides significant depth and breadth in an academic discipline.
Course Descriptions
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Financial Aid & Costs
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Student Support
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Meet Our Intercultural Studies Faculty
Learn from faculty members who know how to balance theory and practical application for a relevant, empowering, Christ-centered learning experience.
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What Can You Do With An Intercultural Studies Degree?
MVNU graduates with a co-major in Intercultural Studies pursue a wide range of careers across ministry, nonprofit work, healthcare, business, and public service. The program prepares students to work effectively in cross-cultural settings and apply their skills in globally focused roles. Here are common career paths MVNU alumni pursue:
- Christian ministry roles such as missionaries (short-term or long-term), hospital or military chaplains, school chaplains, and workplace ministry leaders
- Social work and humanitarian careers in nonprofit organizations, community development, refugee support, and child welfare services
- Health sciences and global health roles including public health work, healthcare administration, health education, and service with humanitarian organizations
- Business and international careers in nonprofit leadership, transnational companies, cross-cultural entrepreneurship, and business-as-mission initiatives
- Criminal justice and public service pathways such as homeland security, corrections, law enforcement, and counterterrorism-related fields
This co-major equips students with a strong foundation for engaging diverse cultures with purpose and adaptability, whether serving locally or globally in faith-based, nonprofit, or professional environments.
Did you know MVNU offers online degree programs? After graduating with your undergraduate degree, you can continue your education with a 100% online master’s or doctoral program.
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Still exploring your options? Discover all the undergraduate majors available at MVNU and find the program that fits your passions and goals.