Chatham University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary major combines courses in intercultural communication, social and cultural theory, and applied diversity practice. You will study how culture, race, ethnicity, gender, class and religion shape social life and institutions, and you will learn methods for analysing power, privilege and inclusion.

• Core topics: intercultural communication, cultural anthropology, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, and social justice theory.
• Research and methods: qualitative methods, community-based research, program evaluation and ethical practice.
• Applied practice: practicum or internship with community organisations, diversity offices or NGOs; fieldwork and applied projects that develop facilitation, mediation and training skills.
• Capstone: a senior project or integrative practicum that synthesises theoretical learning with a practical intervention, policy brief or research study.
• Electives and options: language study, globalisation and migration, public policy, conflict resolution, education and health equity. Opportunities for study abroad and cross-campus collaboration are available.

Entry requirements

Chatham’s undergraduate admissions consider academic preparation, the strength of your high-school record and evidence of interest in intercultural or social-justice issues. Typical expectations include a secondary-school diploma or equivalent and a competitive overall academic profile.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent institutional measures. Successful applicants often submit a personal statement describing their interest in culture, diversity and community practice; letters of recommendation and relevant extracurricular or volunteer experience strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates from an intercultural programme work across public, private and non-profit sectors where cultural competence and inclusion are valued. Career paths commonly include:

• Diversity, equity and inclusion specialist or coordinator in corporations, universities or healthcare organisations.
• Community outreach or programme coordinator for non-profits and social-service agencies.
• International programme officer, cultural liaison or project manager for NGOs and government agencies.
• Human resources professional focusing on recruitment, retention and training in diverse workplaces.
• Educator, trainer or facilitator of cultural competency, anti-bias or conflict-resolution workshops.
• Further study options include postgraduate degrees in social work, public policy, education, international development or cultural studies.

Why study at Chatham University

Chatham offers a small, student-centred environment with an emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. The programme is grounded in the university’s liberal-arts tradition and commitment to social responsibility, giving students close faculty mentoring and opportunities to connect coursework with local and global practicum placements.

Students benefit from Chatham’s location near a diverse metropolitan region, which provides internship and partnership opportunities with civic organisations, health and education institutions and cultural centres. The university’s interdisciplinary approach and support for study abroad, service learning and sustainability initiatives help prepare graduates to make practical, ethical contributions in diverse workplaces and communities.