About

See what students say:

Academics

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the University of North Carolina Asheville strives to exist at the intersection of curiosity and critical thinking. "Strong STEM and liberal arts programs" provide plenty of opportunity for different educational tracks, and "Small class sizes means more individual attention from professors" who are willing "to work with your needs and limits." The strength of the faculty is valued among enrollees, with one student saying, "My professors are the best educators that I have ever had in my entire academic career." Especially "if you're willing to put in the work," professors can "create an amazing, welcoming environment," culminating in an education that's "nothing short of phenomenal." In terms of the classroom experience, "First-year seminars provided at UNCA are really great courses for exceptional discussions," and undergrads tout the benefits of the many "entirely discussion-based" courses that "allow students to experience a leadership role." Learning is not limited to traditional lectures, with many courses taught outside and opportunities for coursework that's "entirely based around extracurricular involvement and action outside of the classroom."

Student Body

The vibe on UNC Asheville campus "Feels extremely friendly," and as one student puts it, "I'm very proud to be a Bulldog and serve and interact with this empathetic, driven, and creative community." The student body is made up of "quality students" who have a "wide variety of life experiences and perspectives." People are "conscientious when it comes to social, political, and environmental" issues, with many working to "make positive changes to the campus culture and society at large." While most would consider themselves liberal, individuals are "tolerant of different groups" and they "embrace and celebrate our unique student body." Although some feel that the university could improve at "Being more inclusive for BIPOC, LGBT+, and religious minority students," others see "Inclusivity of all people" and "bringing awareness to social civil situations" as some of UNCA's greatest strengths. Ultimately, students agree that "A lot of attention" is dedicated to figuring out how to "best uphold our values and respect for each other, the greater world, and the environment."

Campus Life

The undergrad experience at University of North Carolina Asheville is rooted in students' passion for the world around them. Cause-driven activities like food distribution events and zero waste contests give undergrads the opportunity to interact with like-minded peers. Additionally, getting outdoors is a popular pastime. On any given day, you can find UNC Asheville students spending time outside. "Daily walks when the weather is nice is a must," and "dorm balconies, the quad, and the botanical gardens are wonderful spaces to spend time in nature by yourself or with friends." Even "during the summer there are always people out on the campus playing frisbee or hanging around in hammocks."

Venturing off-campus, there are "many national forests around UNCA" where students "go hiking a lot," and enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing. For those looking for a more urban escape, downtown Asheville provides "a lot of things to do," with students heading there to "see small bands play" and "look at different art and stores." Additionally, "Many [businesses] are locally owned which brings a big sense of community" to the Asheville experience. At its core, the campus and surrounding area is "very welcoming and enjoyable and in a great location."

Contact & Visit

Campus Visits Contact

Contact
Nate Corbitt
Campus Visit Manager

Address
1 University Heights
CPO #1320
Asheville, NC 28804

Phone
828-350-4553

Email
ncorbitt@unca.edu

Experience College Life

Most Popular Places On Campus
Main Campus Quadrangle
Sherrill Center's Kimmel Arena
Highsmith Student Union
Asheville Botanical Gardens
STEAM Studio
Down Under, Smoothie Lab, Ramsey Library

Most Popular Places Off Campus
Biltmore Estate/Biltmore Village
Downtown Asheville
Music venues
River Arts District
National Parks and Forests, State Parks (Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountain National Park)
Surrounding areas provide numerous opportunities for hiking, kayaking, cycling, camping, and other outdoor adventures. Downtown Asheville, located less than two miles from campus, is nationally known for its award-winning restaurants, local shops and boutiques, live music, art galleries and museums, and annual festivals. Asheville is a national destination for inspiration in all forms ? arts and culture, food and nature, entrepreneurship and adventure.

Campus Tours

Campus Visiting Center
Monday - Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
828-350-4553

Campus Tours
Appointment Required: Yes
Dates: Year-round
Times: Varies
Average Length: 1 hour

On Campus Interview

Campus Interviews
Yes

Information Sessions
Available

Times
Varies

Faculty and Coach Visits

Dates/Times Available
Academic Year

Arrangements
Contact Athletic Department

Advance Notice
2 weeks

Contact Email Address for Visit
athletics@unca.edu

Class Visits

Dates/Times Available
Academic Year

Arrangements
Contact Campus Visit Manager

Overnight Dorm Stays

Overnight Dorm Stays
Not Available

Transportation

Types of Transportation Available to Campus
Asheville Regional Airport is located 17 miles south of Asheville. A Greyhound passenger bus terminal is located 3 miles south of campus. Amtrak passenger train service is available in Greenville, SC, 60 miles south of Asheville. UNC Asheville is serviced by public buses (Asheville Transit) and private taxi services.

Driving Instructions to Campus
The Office of Admissions is located in the lower level of the Brown Hall. For directions, see: https://new.unca.edu/admission/visit/driving-directions/

Local Accommodations
Please mention UNC Asheville Friends and Family Rate when making your reservations. Rates and availablility are subject change. Please see: https://new.unca.edu/about/asheville-location/ for a list of local accommodations and rates.

Admissions

Applicants: 5,465
Acceptance Rate: 94%
Average HS GPA: 3.38







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