Global Studies Program


In the Global Studies Program, students earn two degrees: a theological degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies (MAIS) from Union University. The GGBTS degree provides biblical and theological foundation as well as vocational skills needed for international service, while the MAIS degree provides knowledge and skills essential to intercultural competence and credentials to enhance professional opportunities in global contexts.

The Global Studies Program (GSP) requires admissions and active enrollment in both GGBTS and Union University. GSP students can attend any of Golden Gate’s five regional campuses, but all MAIS courses are taught in Northern California over four weekends throughout each semester.

GSP students pursue one of three degrees from GGBTS: The MAIS degree from Union University is comprised of 39 core units, offered at the Northern California campus of Golden Gate:
  • 27 units are earned from Union University
  • 12 units (professional component) are earned through GGBTS
The 27 units of the MAIS degree taught through Union University include:
  • Artistic & Intellectual Expressions of Culture
  • International Professional Realities and Opportunities
  • Intercultural Communication
  • Organizational Systems of Society
  • Field Research Methodology
  • Ethnographic Field Experience
  • Field Data Analysis and Strategic Planning
  • Language and Culture
  • Capstone Seminar
The 12 units of the MAIS degree professional component taught through Golden Gate include the following pre-approved courses (GGBTS course name is in parentheses):
  • Global Civilization (Intro to Missions)
  • The Professional’s Worldview I (Christian Theology I)
  • The Professional’s Worldview II (Christian Theology II)
  • The City: Habitat of Humanity
  • Cross-Cultural Counseling (Pastoral Counseling)
  • Global Leadership Development (Ministry Leadership)
  • Global Cultures: Worldview Presuppositions
  • Urban Social Change (Intro to Church Planting)
  • Cultural Anthropology
Other courses may be used to fulfill the GSP professional component requirements. Students must submit written requests for approval to the program director.

Contact Information:

To inquire/apply directly of Union University MAIS, click HERE or contact:

Marlee Benefield
GSP Program Coordinator
(415) 380-1586
marleebenefield@ggbts.edu