Intercultural studies

Intercultural Studies is an interdisciplinary field of inquiry that examines the significance of cultural differences in shaping social relations in contemporary society. From various theoretical and methodological perspectives, researchers examine ethnic, religious and linguistic heterogeneity, migration processes, relations between minority and majority constellations in different societies, and changing social identities. Common to their approach is an interest in the promises and possibilities of human diversity, and in cultural difference as a human resource. In a globalised world, there is an increasing demand for these perspectives in fields such as education, social work, healthcare, law enforcement, business, tourism, diplomacy, and social media.   

Countries including Finland, England, and the US offer postgraduate education in intercultural studies. Karlstad University is the sole higher education institution in Sweden with intercultural studies as a primary field of study. Students can now explore the history of ideas and the theoretical traditions of the field, alongside topics such as intercultural business relations, intercultural communication, diversity, migration, urbanity, racism, intersectionality, gender norms and relations, and the role of culture and cultural identity in conflict and humanitarian emergencies. Research within the department is at the forefront of racism and anti-racism in Sweden, gender equality policies, and feminist movements both in Sweden and internationally, as well as local and global responses to humanitarian crises. We are also organising a global research network focusing on the theme of visual culture and interculturality.