In an increasingly global community, the ability to communicate in culturally diverse contexts and show empathy and cultural adaptability are skills that are more necessary than ever. PSU's Certificate in Intercultural Competence for the Workplace prepares you for success in interculturally diverse and complex workplace environments.
Through language classes, you're invited to step into the shoes of another person, from another culture, in another language, and as such, practice and develop empathy and respect. The certificate's core courses will help you cultivate a greater capacity for collaboratively engaging with diversity and communicating across differences in a culturally responsive manner, while the electives will help you better understand international and intercultural issues in your major or chosen career path.
With this certificate, you'll be equipped with the tools and skills that will enable you to negotiate the 21st century successfully and contribute effectively to society.
PSU's Certificate in Intercultural Competence for the Workplace offers you the opportunity to combine the study of world languages with interculturally focused coursework.
Our faculty have training and expertise in literature, linguistics, pedagogy, cultural studies, and the use of languages in intercultural contexts, from education to business and commerce, film and digital media, and interpersonal and recreational settings.
The equivalent of at least one year of world language study is the cornerstone of this certificate. In your courses, you'll learn to be reflective about language, recognize that others see the world differently, develop an awareness of the complexity of situations and positions, and appropriately communicate with people across languages and cultures. You'll round out the certificate with courses that focus on intercultural competence and courses that help you look at your major or chosen career path in an international or intercultural context.
You'll graduate with training in a world language, intercultural communication, and international perspectives — credentials that many employers seek.
Employers are increasingly looking for global talent: professionals who are proficient in a foreign language in addition to possessing other valuable skills for the job market. This certificate positions you for success by enhancing your intercultural competence in professional and workplace settings.
With this certificate, you can find positions in a variety of fields, including human resources, education (teaching diverse students, leadership, and student services), humanitarian and social work, and work in non-governmental organizations that involve community outreach, health, and other services.
The certificate can also be a strong element of a graduate school application.