UNC cuts all six area studies research centers, effective 2026

UNC is set to close all six of its area research study centers in 2026. These include the Center for European Studies, African Studies Center, Carolina Asia Center, Center for Middle East and Islamic Studies, Institute for the Study of the Americas, and the Center for Slavic, Eurasian and East European Studies. This is part of broader cuts amid a decrease in state and federal funding. The move has drawn concern from some faculty surrounding a loss of research opportunities.