By examining the distribution of power and resources and illuminating the intersection between governance and society, political science majors at UNC Asheville gain the tools for addressing the world’s most pressing issues.
Why Study Political Science at UNC Asheville?
Student and Alumni Spotlight
“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 felt in me. I was finally able to accept it and start turning it into towards myself.”
Alexla Perez-Sanchez, Class of ’22
“I think the most challenging aspect of political science is staying hopeful in the face of learning just how broken the system is. It can be difficult to continue pushing for change when there is a deep-rooted and established force going against you. However, I also believe this is the most rewarding part of the major. Being educated on issues that directly impact people’s daily lives is a way of empowering oneself to enact change, even in small ways.”
Ona Elkins, Class of ’24
The Career Center’s Washington D.C. Career Trek brought 16 students to experience D.C job opportunities, including positions in the federal government.
Alumna Karen Brinson Bell, executive director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, holds the responsibility of making sure every North Carolinian who can, has the opportunity to vote
Outside the Classroom
UNC Asheville’s political science students participate in extracurricular activities that enrich their academic development. By conducting research to lead local change, joining student organizations to host candidate forums, and engaging in service and applied learning, our students not only graduate with a degree but also real-world experience to shape the political future.
Student Clubs & Organizations
UNC Asheville’s political science students participate in extracurricular activities that enrich their academic development. By conducting research to lead local change, joining student organizations to host candidate forums, and engaging in service and applied learning, our students not only graduate with a degree but also real-world experience to shape the political future.
Community Impact
The Political Science Department boasts a long and proud tradition of community engagement involving collaboration among faculty members, students, and community partners in the service of shared interests and values. Ten years after research into The State of Black Asheville began, the ongoing UNC Asheville student research project, initiated by retired Professor Dwight Mullen, prompted significant new funding by Buncombe County for community programs addressing the needs of underserved, poor communities.
Meet the Faculty
UNC Asheville’s Political Science Department comprises seven full-time faculty members trained at some of the nation’s top research universities and deeply committed to undergraduate education. Faculty members have interests and expertise across the political science discipline and highly value interdisciplinary education.
Peter Haschke, Ph.D.
Co-Chair and Associate Professor
| Office: 207 Zageir Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6966 |
| Email: phaschke@unca.edu |
Ashley Moraguez, Ph.D.
Co-Chair and Associate Professor
| Office: 208A Zageir Hall |
| Phone: (828) 251-6984 |
| Email: amorague@unca.edu |
Kenneth Betsalel, Ph.D.
Professor of Political Science
| Office: 224 Zageir Hall |
| Phone: (828) 232-5041 |
| Email: betsalel@unca.edu |
Jessica Cooper
Administrative Assistant
| Office: 203 Zageir Hall |
| Phone: 251-6426 |
| Email: jncooper@unca.edu |
Mark Gibney, J.D., Ph.D.
Belk Distinguished Professor of Humanities and Professor of Political Science
| Office: 211 Zageir Hall |
| Phone: 250-3870 |
| Email: mgibney@unca.edu |
Giovanny Pleites-Hernandez, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
| Office: 204 Zageir Hall |
| Phone: 251-6634 |
| Email: gpleites@unca.edu |
Careers & Outcomes
Equipped with a deep understanding of political systems, policy analysis, and the intricacies of governance, UNC Asheville political science majors possess a skill set highly sought after in numerous professional arenas. Upon completing the political science degree, a world of diverse and rewarding opportunities await, including in government, diplomacy, non-profit and advocacy, media, academia and research, business and consulting, and more.
Upon graduation, students are prepared to live rich lives and embark on meaningful careers in public service, law, policy, journalism, teaching, international relations, and other related areas. Historically, our graduates have a legacy of excellence, with students attaining positions with the U.S. federal government and earning acceptance to law schools or graduate programs at universities such as Vanderbilt, Emory, LSE, and the University of Southern California, among others.
Related Programs
Become a Catalyst for Change With a Political Science Degree From UNC Asheville
Our Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree offers an unparalleled education that combines rigorous academic study with real-world application. Gain a deep understanding of political systems, policy analysis, and the dynamics of governance while honing your critical thinking, research, and communication skills.
Join our vibrant community of change-makers and unlock your potential at UNC Asheville!
Contact Us
| Political Science Department |
| Phone: (828) 251-6634 |
| Email: political_science@unca.edu |
