Excellence in Academics: Building Skills for the 21st-Century World of Work

Students must have the ability to compete in today’s rapidly changing knowledge-based global economy. The liberal arts education—which encourages analytical and creative problem solving, collaborative and interdisciplinary study, and effective communication—is an ideal means to this end. Our innovative general education program, Integrative Liberal Studies, prepares students for the workplace and the world by building skills they will need to solve complex issues of the day. Hallmarks of the four-year sequence include Freshman and Senior colloquia, in-depth courses presented in topical clusters, and the nationally recognized Humanities Program.

The Undergraduate Research Program promotes collaboration between faculty and students on original, often-publishable, research in every discipline. Enterprising faculty and students founded the National Conference on Undergraduate Research at UNC Asheville, and the 20th anniversary event returned to Asheville in April 2006 when 2,000 student researchers from across the country presented their findings in campus classrooms, labs and galleries.

All students are encouraged to participate in Undergraduate Research, for which grants, travel stipends and other opportunities are available. The University Honors Program, for students with the academic qualifications and strong motivation, offers special classes, travel opportunities and seminars with distinguished campus visitors. About 13 percent of students participate in Study Abroad/Study Away at U.S. universities and those around the world.