Religious Studies
Why Minor in Religious Studies?
At the UNC Asheville, we study religion with an open mind to explore and understand the many ways human beings have sought to answer questions of existence and meaning.
Inclusive Curriculum
Our program and faculty members don’t advocate for or against particular religious beliefs. Instead, we challenge students to examine how religious ideas and practices have developed, evolved, and influenced cultures around the world. The religious studies minor offers a wide range of courses that invite students to see the world from different perspectives and remain open to various faiths, practices, ethics, and histories of religious thought.
Student Clubs & Organizations
Student Clubs & Organizations
At UNC Asheville, religious and spiritual student organizations provide a welcoming space for connection, reflection, and growth. These groups bring together students of shared beliefs while also fostering dialogue across different traditions, encouraging open minds and genuine curiosity about the diverse ways people experience faith and meaning. Whether gathering for worship, service, study, or conversation, they offer opportunities to find community, celebrate identity, and learn from one another’s cultures and experiences. For many, these organizations are more than clubs—they’re places to belong, to be accepted, and to explore the spiritual dimension of life while navigating the college journey.
Both my love of books and the critical study of religion are inextricably linked to my interest in HR, as they lend a more compassionate and informed understanding of others, which helps HR foster a culture of diversity, compassion, and equality in the workplace.
Religious Studies Faculty
UNC Asheville’s Religious Studies faculty are dedicated scholars and mentors who bring a wealth of knowledge, global perspective, and genuine care for their students. With expertise spanning world religions, philosophy, ethics, and cultural studies, they create classrooms that are both intellectually challenging and deeply welcoming. Their commitment goes beyond lectures—they encourage open dialogue, critical inquiry, and personal exploration, helping students connect complex ideas to real-world experiences.
Katherine C. Zubko, Ph.D.
Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning, Director of Religious Studies, Professor of Religious Studies and Anthropology
Office: 139 Zageir Hall
Phone: 350-4560
Email: kzubko@unca.edu
Office Hours
Monday 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Wednesday 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Or by appointment
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
Tabby Price
Administrative Assistant
Office: 232 Whitesides Hall
Phone: 251-6419
Email: tprice4@unca.edu
Related Programs
Ready for What's Next?
Curious to explore faith, philosophy, and culture on a deeper level? Discover how UNC Asheville’s Religious Studies program invites you to think critically, engage globally, and better understand the diverse beliefs that shape our world.