For over 150 years, Mars Hill University has served the people of the Southern Blue Ridge. The regional studies program is designed to foster an understanding of the history, culture and environment of this region.
This interdisciplinary program assists students in understanding their community, the region, and connections to the broader world. It employs the concepts and methodologies of several liberal arts disciplines including humanities, natural science, social sciences and fine arts and includes field experiences. While the minor focuses on the Southern Blue Ridge mountains, the knowledge and skills developed therein can be applied to any other region. The Regional Studies minor is recommended for all students and especially encouraged for any student who expects to have a career that depends on ties to the surrounding community such as education, business, politics, religion, or research in the natural or social sciences. Flexibility in course choices and field experiences can complement students’ majors.