In the ethics and social institutions concentration program, learn to critically evaluate ethical dilemmas, develop cultural competence, participate in public discourse, and make informed decisions.
Why Study Ethics and Social Issues at UNC Asheville?
Career & Graduate School Preparation
By examining markets, governments, and community organizations, students discover decision-making processes, their ethical implications, and the outcomes of social choice. The BA in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in ethics and social institutions empowers students to explore a range of career paths or consider advanced study in law, business, and government — or more specialized academic disciplines at the graduate level.
Learn Social and Political Ethics Outside the Classroom
We believe that a liberal arts education should extend beyond the traditional classroom setting. Whether through an original research project, study abroad, or a student club or organization, our students find ample opportunities to enrich their learning and develop meaningful connections with their peers and community.
Service Learning & Volunteering
The Key Center for Community Engaged Learning at UNC Asheville connects students, faculty, staff, and community partners in transformative relationships that address societal needs. From one-time projects to academic service-learning courses, we strive to nurture students and other UNC Asheville community members as they build relationships across campus, Western North Carolina, the nation, and internationally.
Student Clubs & Organizations
UNC Asheville offers over 70 student-led clubs and organizations, meaning our students can look forward to fostering a sense of connection and belonging with students who share similar interests, passions, or backgrounds. Involvement in a club or student org encourages personal growth and self-discovery as students explore new interests, challenge themselves to take on leadership roles, and gain confidence by stepping out of their comfort zones.
Want to start your own club at UNC Asheville? You can!
Faculty
Dedicated to fostering critical thinking and ethical reasoning, faculty guide students through rigorous coursework, collaborative research opportunities, and meaningful discussions. With diverse expertise spanning philosophy, sociology, political science, and more, our faculty members engage students in the exploration of complex moral dilemmas and social issues while empowering them to become thoughtful leaders equipped to address the ethical challenges of our time.
Amanda Wray, Ph.D.
Director of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies; Associate Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies
| Office: 213 Karpen Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6412 |
| Email: awray1@unca.edu |
Renuka Gusain, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Interdisciplinary; International Studies and Humanities; HUM 214 Coordinator; CTL Faculty Fellow, 2021-24
| Office: 214 Zeis Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-3952 |
| Email: rgusain@unca.edu |
Trey Adcock, Ph.D.
ᏣᎳᎩᎯ ᎠᏰᎵ, Cherokee Nation; Associate Professor, Director of American Indian & Indigenous Studies; International Studies
| Office: 214 Zeis Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6961 |
| Email: ladcock1@unca.edu |
Laura Bond, M.F.A.
Professor of Drama & Interdisciplinary Studies
| Office: 120 Whitesides Hall |
| Phone: (828) 232-2992 |
| Email: lbond@unca.edu |
Anne Jansen, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Interdisciplinary, International Studies and English; Director of US Ethnic Studies; Diversity Intensive Committee Chair
| Office: 212 Karpen Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6582 |
| Email: ajansen@unca.edu |
Jinhua Li, Ph.D.
Professor of Chinese Studies & Language, and International, Interdisciplinary Studies; Faculty-Led Global Studies Program Coordinator
| Office: 213 zeis Hall |
| Phone: (828) 232-5135 |
| Email: jli@unca.edu |
Careers & Outcomes
The interdisciplinary concentration in ethics and social institutions program equips students with a versatile set of abilities and a deep understanding of moral frameworks that employers across various sectors value. Students’ skills in critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analyzing interdisciplinary perspectives prepare them to thrive in today’s complex and interconnected world.
Graduates of this unique concentration program often seek careers in law, business, education, and government. Recent graduates have gained acceptance to graduate programs in law, business, and related fields at institutions across the country.
Related Programs
Realize Your Potential in UNC Asheville’s Social Institutions and Ethics Program
At UNC Asheville, we believe in the power of ethical inquiry and interdisciplinary exploration to shape the leaders of tomorrow. Our bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies with an ethics and social institutions concentration offers a one-of-a-kind educational experience that empowers you to navigate complex societal challenges with integrity and compassion. Equipped with critical thinking and moral reasoning skills, you effect positive change in your community and beyond.
Contact Us
| Interdisciplinary Studies |
| Phone: 828.250.3955 |
| Email: interdisciplinary@unca.edu |
