The need for innovative missiologists who can effectively communicate the Gospel in crosscultural contexts and understand human needs is vital in our rapidly changing world. The Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies (MAICS) is designed to prepare students for various types of crosscultural ministry, enabling them to view current global trends through the lens of missiology. This degree is intended for students with varied levels of crosscultural exposure, and emphasizes both scholarship and praxis. MAICS students gain the foundational skills to pursue further studies or research opportunities, or to serve those in need through practical ministries around the world.

The two-year program provides a foundational set of integrated courses from the Schools of Theology, Intercultural Studies, and Psychology. MAICS students also pursue a second set of courses that provide a solid framework of missiological disciplines: anthropology, globalization, mission history, spirituality, and theology of mission. With this foundation, students may then use remaining units to take a variety of relevant elective classes, or to pursue a specific area of emphasis in greater depth. Elective classes are available in the areas of mission history, mission theology, ethnomusicology, international development, children at risk, urban ministry, anthropology, and missional church.

By thinking critically and creatively about contemporary global issues, MAICS graduates are able to demonstrate in word and deed the transforming work of Christ.

Learning Outcomes  

• Graduates will participate in the mission of God and the ministries of the global Church from an evangelical missiological perspective.
• Graduates will demonstrate critical thinking and integration skills in order to foster individual and social transformation.
• Graduates will demonstrate sensitivity to cultural and ethnic diversity for building relationships and for communicating the Gospel in context.
• Graduates will have skills and knowledge and networks of relationships to pursue vocations that engage the mission of God globally.
• Graduates will value the importance of spiritual formation in both its personal and communal dimensions.

Typical Students Students in this program have a commitment to intercultural ministry in the church, parachurch or the marketplace. Students come from varied backgrounds of intercultural experiences. Practicum Included in the curriculum is the opportunity to complete a crosscultural practicum that combines coursework with practical ministry.  The practicum experience challenges students to discern their calling, grow spiritually, and apply what they are learning to a crosscultural context. Online Options Students may take up to 40 units through Distributed Learning.

Normal Progression The MA in Intercultural Studies can be completed in two years. However, many students pursue the program on a part-time basis and thereby extend their study over a longer period of time. In addition to the daytime schedule and normal ten-week quarters, a full range of evening courses and intensive ten-day courses are offered regularly, making possible a flexible program of study. Ministries The degree prepares students for work in the church, parachurch or the marketplace. Further Studies The MA in Intercultural Studies can serve as a prerequisite for doctoral studies at Fuller. Please reference the requirements for your desired doctoral program to ensure you take the courses that meet the academic prerequisites for admission.