translator
Bachelors In

Cultural Studies Degrees

The complete guide on what you’ll learn, job prospects, university programs, and saving time and money.

Why We Love It

  • $48,360
    Potential Avg. Salary*
  • Growing Demand
    Job Outlook

* Salary & growth data is based on the recent Bureau of Labor and Statistics data published at https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes273091.htm for 27-3091 Interpreters and translators 11/2021. Based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.

As more and more companies expand their business operations globally—hiring employees from all over the world and selling products and services internationally—the demand for knowledgeable cultural experts has grown exponentially.

With a bachelor of arts in cultural studies, you can work as a cultural advisor, helping companies understand the beliefs and customs of their new global customer base.

What is a Degree in Cultural Studies?

Twenty years ago, you paid long-distance phone call fees to call someone one state away, but today you can connect with anyone in the world instantly via the internet.

This change has expanded the possibilities for many businesses, enabling them to conduct business internationally and hire remote employees from all over the world. However expectations and customs vary from culture to culture, and learning about the different cultures of the world requires time, analysis, immersion, and significant studies.

With a major in cultural studies, you can take a deep dive into international cultures, learning why people believe and behave the way they do in other areas of the world. This knowledge will help you coach business leaders, politicians, and advocates on what customs to adhere to when working with people internationally, what behaviors to avoid to not give offense, and what to expect when traveling. With increases in globalization have come increased demand for individuals with these skills.

Recommended Schools

What Courses Would I Take For a Major in Cultural Studies?

  • Critical Debates in Cultural Studies
  • Music and Culture
  • Censorship and Art
  • Cultural Geography of China
  • Conversational Spanish
  • Contemporary Political Thought
  • European Culture and Civilization
  • Foundational Ethics

What Jobs Can You Get with a Degree in Cultural Studies?

Cultural studies majors qualify for a variety of high-demand positions. Most learn a second language as part of their studies, and jobs for translators and interpreters have an increase in demand much higher than the average.

Cultural studies graduates are also needed to teach English abroad, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. Finally, globalization has created a significant demand for cultural advisors for multinational businesses and within U.S. politics, so there should be plenty of career opportunities.

How Long does it take?

A bachelors in Cultural Studies will have a typical length of 4 years in a full time schedule. That said, there are many ways to speed up the timeframe by either taking more units via online coursework, community college, or taking free classes at OnlineDegree.com that could transfer to universities in the US.

Recommended Schools


Best Jobs for Cultural Studies Degrees

Cultural studies graduates can find careers in a variety of industries. Many work as interpreters and translators after earning their bachelor’s degree, and some find jobs teaching English as a second language abroad.

Some work as cultural educators and advisors for politicians and businesses. You may also earn a graduate degree in order to become a cultural studies professor for colleges in the U.S.


How to save time and money

Our mission is to help you to avoid paying full price for college. We want your Cultural Studies degree to be affordable and accessible. Here’s how you could save:

Create Your Free SmartPlan

There are many ways to make college affordable and accessible.

That’s why we created a helpful tool called SmartPlan.

It’s free, and helps you find potential ways to save and tons of information about each school you’re considering

Think of it as your “college blueprint”, to help you instantly craft a path to your degree:

  • Which Colleges Match Your Needs
  • Ways You Could Save Time & Money
  • Free Courses You Could Take for Credit
  • Valuable Data and Insights on Each College
  • Detailed Steps You Should Take!

See what’s possible for you and generate a free plan within just a few minutes

Create My SmartPlan

Take Language Courses Independently

If you’re able to take language courses in high school, invest in language education software, or travel internationally to immerse yourself in the use of another language, you’ll have an advantage when starting your program.

You may be able to test out of required language courses, saving you tuition fees, and you may even be able to earn experience and an income working as a translator or interpreter while in college. Additionally, you’ll be well-prepared for internships and semesters abroad during college.


You Might also be Interested in

Many visitors who look for a degree in Cultural Studies are also interested in the following degrees.

Start Towards Your Cultural Studies Degree, Free.

Generate your free SmartPlan™ to identify schools you like, and potential ways to save on your degree or certification program with courses, offers, and much more!

Get Started