Intercultural Communication

Course summary

This course examines a wide range of theorists who have written on intercultural communication. It challenges delegates to apply theories to their own intercultural behaviour in personal and professional contexts and examine the effects this has on the use of intercultural communication.

During the course you will explore intercultural theory with the aim of identifying barriers to effective intercultural communication and to overcome those barriers (eg lack of cultural awareness, stereotypical representations).

By expanding your knowledge on theories of intercultural competence you will begin to analyse your own intercultural competence and that of others, to identify how best to improve, and to see how to set about doing so. Using the knowledge and capacities that you gain throughout the course, you will be able to apply theories to any environment where a variety of cultures or subcultures are present (eg in their personal lives, language teaching or other professional context).

Who is this course for?

You will normally have a first degree in a relevant subject, though this is not essential. We suggest delegates have a strong grasp of the English Language and have previously studied English at GCSE level or equivalent.

Course Leader

Rob Williams is a principal lecturer in the school of humanities, specialising in international and intercultural communication and course leader for MA International Liaison and Communication.

Rob was Director of the University of Westminster Ministry of Defence Languages Examinations Board until 2013, designing mediation testing in over 40 languages. Prior to this he has worked as a language teacher, teacher trainer, interpreter, translator and intercultural consultant.

Rob serves on the Board of the ICC International Language Association, which he chaired from 2010–2013. He regularly speaks at conferences and runs workshops in the UK, across Europe and further afield and has been a participant in and co-ordinator of a number of EU co-funded projects.

Course structure

By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:

• Understand the multiple cultural influences on their own behaviour and on the behaviour of others and the effects this has on intercultural communication
• Identify barriers to effective intercultural communication and overcome those barriers
• Analyse their own intercultural competence and learn strategies for improvement

Teaching and assessment

You will be joining us at our historic Regent Street Campus, a dedicated building with state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities. The campus is based near Oxford Circus, which means you'll benefit from a central London location with excellent transport links.

The course consists of a series of classroom lectures where key themes will be introduced and discussed. There will be the opportunity to work together on group exercises and delegates will also benefit from supplementary learning material and the opportunity to collaborate with other course participants via the University's Virtual Learning Environment.

Course assessments take the following format:

• two coursework essays 

While the course is credit bearing, please note that successful completion of the module does not allow direct entry onto the associated Masters programme. To be eligible for entry onto the degree, you will still need to meet the necessary requirements and submit an application via Admissions.