Cross-cultural programs
Experience the world
Take a semester - or just three weeks - to expand your global view. Travel to someplace you’ve never been before. Discover the richness and challenges of other cultures and communities. Try new foods. Forge closer relationships with classmates through shared experiences in new environments.
More than 95 percent of Bluffton students fulfill the cross cultural requirement with a cross cultural experience following their sophomore year.
Meet Bluffton's cross-cultural requirement by choosing one of the following options:
Short-term opportunities
Students may shoose short term opportuities according to their interest in a particular location or theme. Domestic and international experiences are available during months of May and June.
Semester programs
Semester long programs include classes which fulfill some of your general education requirements and may include internship experience.
Alternative opportunities
Bluffton students have completed their cross-cultural requirement with experiences in Italy, London and other locations.
Foreign Language
(6 semester hours)
Students may choose to study one foreign language for six semester hours as a way
to fulfill the cross-cultural requirement. Currently Bluffton offers Spanish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about cross-cultural experiences at Bluffton? You’re not alone. Here
are answers to some of the most common questions from students and families.
- Stand out on your resume
- Build problem-solving and communication skills
- Gain hands-on experience in diverse environments
- Develop a broader, global perspective
- Faculty and staff-led travel experiences (shorter, structured trips)
- Semester-long programs (study away opportunities with partner organizations)
Yes. Bluffton offers travel experiences that take place over a shorter period of time. These immersive trips are designed to fit within the academic calendar while still providing meaningful cultural engagement and hands-on learning.
Semester-long programs typically last one academic semester and allow students to fully immerse themselves in another community or culture while earning academic credit.
The program fee supports the real costs of travel and immersive learning, including transportation, housing, guided experiences and logistical coordination. These elements ensure a safe, structured and high-impact experience for every student.
Many students use a combination of financial aid, scholarships and personal planning to participate. Bluffton is committed to helping students find ways to make their cross-cultural experience possible.
Yes! But it’s more than just fun. Students often describe their cross-cultural experience as one of the most meaningful and memorable parts of their time at Bluffton. It combines exploration, relationship-building and personal growth in ways that last long after the trip ends.
Yes. Students apply for their selected cross-cultural experience, but the process is simple and guided. Detailed application steps and deadlines are available through my.Bluffton, and support is provided along the way.
Students can choose when to complete their experience based on their academic plan, though many participate during their sophomore or junior year.
Bluffton’s program is deeply rooted in its mission and intentionally designed as a transformative learning experience, not just travel. It emphasizes reflection, service, community and purpose, making it a defining part of a Bluffton education.
Students consistently say yes. A cross-cultural experience can change how you see the world, and your place in it. It builds confidence, broadens perspective and helps you discover how your purpose connects to a larger global community.
Financial assistance is available.
If you have any questions about the cross-cultural opportunities, contact Noah Heiing:heiingn@bluffton.edu