Fuller Theological Seminary

Programme overview

The Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies equips students to analyze cultural contexts theologically and to design and implement church and mission strategies across cultural boundaries. Instruction combines biblical and theological reflection with social-science tools for understanding culture, language learning principles, and practical field training.

What you'll study

Curriculum typically brings together core theological courses and specialised intercultural modules that emphasize practical skills and research:

• Cultural anthropology for ministry — frameworks for describing and interpreting cultural patterns that affect religious life and practice.
• Missiology and history of missions — theological foundations and historical developments shaping contemporary mission practice.
• Contextual theology and ethics — methods for formulating theological responses that are faithful and contextually appropriate.
• Language acquisition and literacy approaches — principles for learning and teaching language in cross-cultural settings.
• Research methods — qualitative and ethnographic techniques for community assessment and ministry design.
• Field education or practicum — supervised cross-cultural placement, applied projects, or internship in a ministry context.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree and submit academic transcripts. Additional materials commonly requested include a statement of purpose outlining intercultural or missional vocational goals, letters of recommendation, and a pastoral or professional endorsement. International applicants should be prepared to meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles in international and local mission agencies, intercultural pastoral ministry, church planting, community development, teaching and training, and non-profit leadership. The programme also prepares students for further academic study (for example, advanced theological or intercultural research degrees) and for roles requiring cultural analysis and program design across faith-based organisations.

Scholarships & funding angle

Many institutions and sending organisations offer scholarships, bursaries, or sponsorships targeted at students preparing for ministry or mission work; denominational bodies and mission agencies sometimes fund part or all of training for candidates they intend to send internationally. Prospective students should explore institutional aid offices, denominational scholarships, employer sponsorship, and external mission-focused foundations, and consider part-time work, assistantships, or targeted fundraising for practicum expenses.