History Department
Why Study History at UNC Asheville?
Earn a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of North Carolina Asheville and explore the roots of civilizations, cultures, and ideas that shape our world today. With a curriculum grounded in critical thinking, research, and communication, students are prepared for diverse career paths in education, public service, law, journalism, museum work, and more. History majors can also enhance their studies with interdisciplinary minors, or take individual courses as non-degree students for personal enrichment or professional growth. With flexible options and a strong liberal arts foundation, UNC Asheville’s History program empowers students to connect the past with the present—and shape the future
History Department Programs
History
B.A. Minor Teacher Licensure
UNC Asheville’s History program offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach to studying the past, equipping students with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills essential for understanding the complexities of the modern world. Through small, discussion-based classes and close faculty mentorship, students examine diverse historical narratives across time periods and global regions. Whether exploring ancient civilizations, modern revolutions, or the local histories of Western North Carolina, history majors gain a strong foundation for graduate study and careers in education, public service, law, museum and archival work, journalism, and more.
Career Outcomes
Career Outcomes
A degree in History from UNC Asheville prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value analytical thinking, strong writing, and a nuanced understanding of global and cultural contexts. Alumni pursue successful careers in education, law, public service, business, journalism, nonprofit leadership, library science, museum work, or international relations. Whether interpreting the past or shaping the future, history graduates are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions in a variety of fields.
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.
Earn Your Teacher Licensure
Earn Your Teacher Licensure
Interested in pursuing a career in teaching? Choose between the general major in history or a history major with teaching licensure, which includes coursework from the Education Department. In these classes, you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become a middle or high school social studies teacher in the state of North Carolina. Contact the appropriate licensure advisor for more information and review the catalog to explore the required coursework.
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.
I have been surprised at how much this endeavor has fostered my personal growth and self-confidence.
History Department Faculty
The Department of History at UNC Asheville is a vibrant community of scholars committed to collaborative learning, critical inquiry, and mentorship. Our experienced faculty bring diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise to the classroom, guiding students through hands-on research projects, creative work, and scholarly presentations. With small, discussion-based classes, students have the opportunity to form close, supportive relationships with faculty mentors.
Sarah Judson, Ph.D.
Chair and Professor of History
Office: 203 Whitesides Hall
Phone:
Email: sjudson@unca.edu
Andrew Hyder
Administrative Assistant
Phone:
Email: ahyder@unca.edu
Office Hours
- Monday 2:00pm – 3:00pm
- Tuesday 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Or by appointment
Ellen Holmes Pearson, Ph.D.
Professor of History and Roy Carroll Professor of Arts & Sciences
Office: 219 Whitesides Hall
Phone: 251-6651
Email: epearson@unca.edu
Alvis E. Dunn, Ph.D.
HUM 324 Coordinator ; Associate Professor of History
Office: 206 Whitesides Hall
Phone: 251-6620
Email: adunn1@unca.edu
Office Hours:
Wednesday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Thursday 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Eric Roubinek, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of History
Office: 208 Whitesides Hall
Phone:
Email: eroubine@unca.edu
Office Hours:
Wednesday 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Thursday 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Samer Traboulsi, Ph.D.
Professor of History
Office: 205 Whitesides Hall
Phone: 251-6298
Email: straboul@unca.edu
Grant Hardy, Ph.D.
Professor of History & Religious Studies
Office: 220 Whitesides Hall
Phone: 251-6344
Email: ghardy@unca.edu
Office Hours:
Monday 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Tuesday 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Wednesday 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Thursday 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Tracey Rizzo, Ph.D.
Professor of History & Interim Dean of Humanities
Office: 204 Whitesides Hall
Phone: 251-6315
Email: trizzo@unca.edu
Ready for what's next?
Earn a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of North Carolina Asheville and develop the critical thinking, research, and communication skills that prepare you for life after college.