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Ph.D. in Intercultural Education

Cook School of Intercultural Studies

Overview

Due to the closure of the Cook School of Intercultural Studies (effective at the end of the 2023–24 academic year), this program will be housed within Talbot School of Theology at Biola University starting Fall 2024. For details regarding the closure, please refer to the university’s official announcement.

The Ph.D. in Intercultural Education equips experienced educational professionals for vocations in various educational arenas. The program aims to produce graduates who engage in research and writing about cross-cultural educational endeavors, are competent educators for intercultural contexts, and integrate a biblically informed perspective into their understanding and practice of education.

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Why Choose Intercultural Education at Biola?

Biola University will prepare you for a career in intercultural education through advanced qualitative research and scholarship. Through guidance from our exceptional faculty, you will be academically and spiritually transformed, fully equipped to communicate, live, work and fulfill the Great Commission in any cultural setting with sensitivity and effectiveness.

Upon completion of the Ph.D. in Intercultural Education, you will be able to: 

  • Demonstrate a mastery of relevant theories in intercultural education and related disciplines associated with one’s research area and/or ministry context.
  • Engage in and publish independent educational research.
  • Generate new understandings and explanations (e.g., theoretical constructs) and apply them in culturally appropriate ways to the improvement of educational outcomes in diverse contexts.
  • Discuss and analyze the integration of one’s faith commitments, theological understandings, and pertinent educational convictions.
  • Exemplify rigorous scholarship accompanied by Christ-honoring professionalism in all scholarly activities.

What Will I Study?

In order to foster the university's emphasis on developing critical thinking and encouraging sound Biblical faith, the course offerings for this program are highly integrative in nature. Along with guidance from a faculty advisor, you will be challenged to critically evaluate and test various theoretical models, subject them to theological and Biblical examination, and apply those concepts for the purpose of service and ministry in the world. You will further your knowledge through courses such as:

  • Intercultural Communication
  • Culture & Transformation
  • Curriculum Design for Intercultural Contexts
  • Cross-Cultural Teaching / Learning Strategies
  • Educational Theory

4.5–5.5 years
Standard Duration
This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary depending on transferred coursework and preferred courseload.
51–60
Total Program Credits
Every program at Biola University features rigorous academics, biblically integrated curriculum and vocational preparation.
WSCUC
Accreditation
Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional accreditations may apply to specific programs.

Career Paths

Graduates of the Ph.D. in Intercultural Education program often teach in higher and international education and lead educational institutions in intercultural contexts. While this degree will equip you to step into a wide variety of cross-cultural settings and vocations, a few career paths to consider include:

  • Professor at a Foreign Seminary, University or School
  • Professor or Provost at a University in the U.S.
  • Teacher/Administrator in a K-12 Multicultural School
  • Domestic or International Missionary
  • Founder and/or CEO of a Missions Organization
  • University Administrator
  • U.S. Government Service
  • Management Consultant

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