Why Study Intercultural Communication?

Intercultural communication (IC) refers to the process of exchanging communication between people from different cultural backgrounds, understanding non-verbal communication habits, and learning to adjust communication tactics in the moment to improve communication. Have good intercultural communication skills is a sign of cultural intelligence.

The ultimate goal of intercultural communication is to have mutual comprehension, tolerance, and effective collaboration by recognizing differences.

This field of study was developed post-WWII by anthropologist Edward T Hall in the 1950s as a way to improve diplomacy and understanding between cultures. Universities began picking up on this field and introduced courses and workshops in the late 1960s, with increases in demand driven by the Civil Rights Movement. 

This field now has many overlaps with skills like intercultural dialogue, intercultural competence, and is a main focus of intercultural studies. 

With global travel and migration at an all time historical high, it’s more important now than ever to develop a strong understanding of intercultural communication – especially if you intend to move into globalized workplaces. Everything from media and virtual communication to conflict resolution and diplomacy will benefit from a solid understanding of intercultural communication skills.

By learning different intercultural communication skills (both verbally and non-verbally), you can deepen your sense of empathy and foster a sense of inclusion in any environment. At PBA, we understand that we’re teaching the global leaders of tomorrow, if we can bring more compassion to the future through teaching intercultural communication, then we’re doing our job right. 

Through courses like Intercultural studies, you’ll learn how to engage in communication through both verbal and non verbal methods (and how to know when to use each). You’ll have a solid understanding of the power of language and where that power is held. You’ll also learn the basics of conflict resolution and negotiation while taking inter consideration cultural identity, perceptions, and stereotypes. 

Ultimately, you’ll learn how to communicate through written, verbal, non-verbal, and digital mediums across cultures.

Almost all fields will involve some form of communication, and having a strong understanding of intercultural communication will set you up to be successful in any situation that involves clear communication. 

More specifically, you’ll be able to follow career paths such as:

• International business management
• Diplomacy and international relations
• Human resources (and any field involving face to face communication
• Humanitarian work
• Education (and especially if you intend to work in universities abroad)
• Media, marketing, and public relations

While all skill can  be developed, you may find that you’re drawn to fields that use intercultural communication if you’re someone who enjoys working with people from diverse backgrounds, are interested in global issues, or plan to work internationally. 

If this is the right fit for you, then get in touch about our International Studies program offered for both undergraduate and as a master’s degree.