History
Discover the Power of the Past as a History Major at UNC Asheville
The Bachelor of Arts in History at the University of North Carolina Asheville invites students to explore the people, ideas, and movements that have shaped our world. Whether examining ancient civilizations or modern revolutions, students gain the tools to think critically, write persuasively, and understand the past in ways that illuminate the present. Along the way, dedicated faculty and hands-on experiences help students turn their passion for history into meaningful academic and professional pathways.
Ask Questions, Investigate Answers
UNC Asheville’s History program encourages students to think deeply about change over time by examining a wide range of people, cultures, and ideas. Courses emphasize research, writing, and critical analysis, with opportunities to explore African American history, U.S. history, global histories, and the history of thought. Small, discussion-based classes foster engaged learning and strong communication skills.
Career Paths
A degree in History equips students with transferable skills in analysis, research, and communication—qualities that are highly valued across many fields. Graduates have pursued roles in law, education, government, media, nonprofit work, and business, as well as positions in museums, archives, and public history. Some alumni choose to earn teaching licensure, while others continue their studies in graduate or professional programs to become historians, curators, professors, or legal professionals.
Complete a Capstone Thesis Project
Take the opportunity to delve deep into historical research and analysis through our capstone thesis project. Engage in rigorous academic inquiry as you craft an original piece of scholarship, demonstrating your mastery of historical concepts and critical thinking skills. This culminating experience not only highlights your expertise in the field, but also equips you with the invaluable skills necessary for success in graduate studies or a career in history. For future employers or admission committees, the Senior Thesis provides the history graduate with clear evidence of their ability to research, write, and think.
Understand and Learn From the Past
What drives human action, and how do the stories of the past shape the world we live in today? As a History major at UNC Asheville, you’ll explore these enduring questions and more through the study of people, cultures, and ideas across time.
I have been surprised at how much this endeavor has fostered my personal growth and self-confidence.
Discover Your Future by Unlocking the Past
UNC Asheville History graduates have gone on to shape their communities in powerful and diverse ways. Some have become educators, public historians, and museum professionals, while others have pursued careers in law, journalism, nonprofit leadership, and archival research. Many continue their studies through competitive graduate programs across the country. Along the way, our students have conducted original research, presented at conferences, curated local history exhibits, and contributed to public memory through oral history projects—demonstrating the depth, curiosity, and impact of a history degree.
History, Buried Deep
Through immersive technology and historical research, UNC Asheville students are shining a light on buried stories from Western North Carolina’s African American communities.
Summer Adventures
In 2023, students in the Italy: Ancient to Modern, The North study abroad trip used historical sites as their classroom.
The Chase is On
See how history major and librarian Amanda Glenn-Bradley (Class of 2013) appeared on the national quiz show The Chase.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
History Club
The History Club at UNC Asheville gives students hands-on ways to engage with the past and with their community. Members help with volunteer projects such as cleaning and documenting old cemeteries, conducting genealogy and archival research, and collaborating on story-mapping projects that uncover local histories. Through partnerships with UNC Asheville’s Special Collections and local historical organizations, students gain experience gathering oral histories, investigating under-represented narratives, and preserving heritage that might otherwise be forgotten. The club’s work not only enriches students’ research and leadership skills but also helps build stronger connections between the university and Asheville’s broader community.
Complete a Capstone Thesis Project
Complete a Capstone Thesis Project
Delve into advanced historical research and analysis through UNC Asheville’s capstone thesis project. This rigorous, independent endeavor allows students to craft an original piece of scholarship, demonstrating mastery of historical concepts, critical thinking, and research skills. The senior thesis serves as a culminating academic experience and provides clear evidence—whether for graduate programs or future employers—of a student’s ability to research, write, and think with depth and precision.
Scholarships
Scholarships
UNC Asheville’s History program is proud to offer a variety of scholarship and award opportunities that recognize academic excellence and support students in pursuing their passions. In addition to federal financial aid, history majors may be eligible for scholarships such as the North Carolina History Award, the Greenawalt/Ready Senior Thesis Award, the Ruth and Leon Feldman Award, the Mark Lawson Scholarship, and the Mitchell History Fellow Scholarship. Funding is also available for travel and research, helping students deepen their academic experience through fieldwork, archival study, and conference participation.
Meet the Faculty
Meet the Faculty
Unlike larger universities, we offer smaller classes taught by professors, not teaching assistants, and the opportunity to collaborate closely with faculty. Our History department is a community of scholars dedicated to supporting each other as we work together to explore a range of concepts through research projects, presentations, and collaborative and creative work.
Related Programs
Ready for What's Next?
Here, the key to shaping a brighter future lies in our ability to understand and learn from the past. By enrolling in our program, you embark on an intellectual journey that spans centuries and continents. From ancient civilizations to modern revolutions, explore the rich tapestry of human history, gaining valuable insights into the complexities of the world we live in today.