Human Rights Studies
Why Minor in Human Rights Studies at UNC Asheville?
UNC Asheville’s Human Rights Studies minor offers an interdisciplinary course of study designed to foster critical and creative thinking about human rights at the local, national, and global levels. Administered by the Political Science Department, the program draws on diverse disciplines—including Political Science, Anthropology, Sociology, Economics, History, Literature, and Philosophy—to explore how human rights concepts have emerged, evolved, and been implemented throughout history. Emphasizing the philosophical and political tensions that shape human rights discourse and action, the program also supports undergraduate research and engaged scholarship, preparing students for careers in fields such as public policy, education, human services, humanitarian aid, journalism, law, and criminal justice.
Cross-Disciplinary Curriculum
The Human Rights Studies minor builds a strong interdisciplinary foundation through core courses that examine the origins, evolution, and implementation of human rights. Electives allow students to deepen their understanding by exploring specialized topics such as civil liberties, global justice, humanitarian law, and the politics of identity and resistance across historical and cultural contexts.
Outside the Classroom
Outside the Classroom
Dignity Journal
Building on UNC Asheville’s strong foundation in human rights education, the political science department also supports Dignity, a student-led undergraduate research journal dedicated to human rights topics. Featuring both creative writing and scholarly work authored and published by students, Dignity offers a distinctive platform for students to contribute to ongoing human rights conversations while gaining valuable experience in research, writing, and publishing—an asset for both graduate study and professional development.
I'm just so thankful that I have like the support of this faculty at UNCA, because I think that if I would have gone to a different school—I know it's kind of unfair to say this—but, I genuinely feel that it wouldn't have been the same amount of support, or confidence that they instilled in me. I was finally able to accept it and start turning it towards myself.
Human Rights Studies Faculty
UNC Asheville’s Human Rights Studies faculty bring passion, experience, and a global outlook to the classroom. Drawing from backgrounds in law, history, politics, and cultural studies, they guide students through the complexities of justice, equity, and advocacy. Known for their mentorship and accessibility, they empower students to think critically, engage compassionately, and apply their learning to real-world challenges—whether in local communities or on the international stage.
Ashley Moraguez, Ph.D.
Chair and Associate Professor of Political Science
Office: 208A Zageir Hall
Phone: (828) 251-6984
Email: amorague@unca.edu
Office Hours
Wednesday 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Thursday 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Or by appointment
Peter Haschke, Ph.D.
Professor of Political Science
Office: 207 Zageir Hall
Phone: (828) 251-6966
Email: phaschke@unca.edu
Office Hours
Monday 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Wednesday 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Or by appointment
Mark Gibney, J.D., Ph.D.
Belk Distinguished Professor of Humanities and Professor of Political Science
Office: 211 Zageir Hall
Phone: (828) 250-3870
Email: mgibney@unca.edu
Rob Shrode, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Political Science
Office: 221 Zageir Hall
Phone: 825-6816
Email: rshrode@unca.edu
Giovanny Pleites-Hernandez, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Political Science, Humanities 414 Coordinator
Office: 204 Zageir Hall
Phone: 251-6634
Email: gpleites@unca.edu
Office Hours:
Monday 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Tuesday 1:00 pm – 2:15 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am – 10:30 am
Grace Campbell, M.L.A., PhD
Assistant Professor of Political Science
Office: 220 Zageir Hall
Phone: 251-6312
Email: gcampbel@unca.edu
Office Hours:
Tuesday 9:45 am – 11:00 am
Tuesday 4:00 pm – 5:15 pm
Wednesday 4:00 pm – 5:15 pm
Thursday 9:45 am – 11:00 am
I am available to schedule appointments on Zoom if requested. Students should email me to request a time.
Related Programs
Ready for What's Next?
Complete a minor in Human Rights Studies at UNC Asheville and gain the critical tools to analyze, advocate for, and engage with pressing global and local human rights issues—preparing you for impactful work in law, policy, advocacy, international development, and more.