History
Why Study History at UNC Asheville?
UNC Asheville’s history majors investigate some of life’s biggest questions: What is the nature of humanity? What motivates us? How does the past influence our future?
Ask Questions, Investigate Answers
UNC Asheville’s liberal arts focus challenges history majors to investigate more than just the past; to study history is to understand change. Students learn research techniques, sharpen their writing skills, and apply them to the study of African-American history, U.S. history, the history of cultures around the world, and the history of ideas. Small classes featuring group discussions help students hone their communication skills, preparing them for careers in business, law, education, government, communications, politics, multimedia, and more.
Career Paths
A history bachelor’s degree opens the door to a wide range of exciting career paths that value critical thinking, research skills, and a deep understanding of the human experience. Alumni often enjoy careers in business, law, education, government, communications, politics, and multimedia, among other industries. Many students also pursue licensure to teach at the K-12 level. In addition, some students may pursue an advanced or specialized degree to work as historians, archivists, museum curators, professors, and more.
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
UNC Asheville’s history majors investigate some of life’s biggest questions: What is the nature of humanity? What motivates us? How does the past influence our future?
I have been surprised at how much this endeavor has fostered my personal growth and self-confidence.
Discover Your Future by Unlocking the Past
History graduates pursue diverse careers, including business, journalism, sportswriting, banking, politics, medicine, military service, and ministry. Many work for government agencies at all levels as researchers, analysts, planners, public information officers, and more. Some graduates even become college professors. Our students also go on to advanced studies at prestigious universities such as Wake Forest, UNC-Chapel Hill, Georgetown, and Purdue, among others.
Summer Adventures
In 2023, students in the Italy: Ancient to Modern, The North study abroad trip used historical sites as their classroom.
Original Minds: Zach Dorcas
How does the most powerful person in the nation affect our day-to-day lives? In answering this question, UNC Asheville history alumnus Zach Dorcas brings insight into issues of our contemporary world through his research concerning the Era of Good Feelings and the political landscape of 18th-century Kentucky. Exploring both the local and national implications of the Era, Zach’s research gained acceptance to the Appalachian Studies Conference.
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
Scholarships and Awards Available
Scholarships and Awards Available
Funding your education can be challenging; however, in the history bachelor’s degree program, you have options. Aside from funding opportunities such as federal financial student aid, history majors can look forward to scholarship opportunities such as the North Carolina History Award, the Greenawalt/Ready Senior Thesis Award, Ruth and Leon Feldman Award, the Mark Lawson Scholarship, and the Mitchell History Fellow Scholarship. There are also awards for travel research.
Meet the Faculty
Meet the Faculty
The Department of History’s faculty and students explore a range of concepts through research projects, presentations, and collaborative and creative work. Our experienced faculty members have diverse backgrounds and expertise and thrive on mentoring each of their students.
Related Programs
Ready for What's Next?
Here, we believe that 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.