Young Harris College

Young Harris College: Tradition, Transformation, and the Liberal Arts Spirit

Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Young Harris College (YHC) is a private, four-year liberal arts institution known for its serene campus, close-knit community, and deep commitment to student development. Established in 1886, Young Harris College has evolved over the decades from a small seminary into a vibrant college offering over 30 undergraduate degree programs, with a growing emphasis on experiential learning and leadership development.

Young Harris College provides more than an education—it fosters transformation. With its rigorous academic offerings, supportive faculty, and enriching student life, YHC challenges students to think critically, communicate effectively, and serve the world with empathy and purpose.

A Legacy Rooted in Service and Scholarship

Initially created to educate students in the mountainous, underserved region of Appalachia, the school offered both high school and junior college instruction. Over time, it became a two-year college and eventually transitioned into a fully accredited four-year college in the 21st century. Today, YHC blends its historical mission with a modern focus on academic excellence and holistic development.

A Liberal Arts Curriculum That Inspires

At the core of YHC’s academic identity is a strong liberal arts and sciences curriculum. Students are encouraged to explore diverse disciplines—literature, science, philosophy, the arts, mathematics, history, and social sciences—while also specializing in a chosen field of study.

This approach fosters intellectual agility and broadens perspectives, producing graduates who are thoughtful, adaptable, and capable of lifelong learning.

Undergraduate Majors and Programs

Young Harris College offers more than 30 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs in fields such as:

• Biology

• Business and Public Policy

• Communication Studies

• Creative Writing

• Education (Early Childhood, Middle Grades, and Secondary)

• English

• Environmental Science and Sustainability

• History

• Mathematics

• Music

• Psychology

• Religious Studies

• Theatre

• Outdoor Leadership

Students can also participate in pre-professional tracks, such as Pre-Law, Pre-Medical, Pre-Physical Therapy, and Pre-Dental. Many students use their YHC education as a launching pad to graduate or professional school.

Core Curriculum and General Education

YHC’s integrated core curriculum ensures that all students develop foundational skills in writing, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, ethical inquiry, and global awareness. Courses are intentionally designed to connect different disciplines and expose students to varied modes of thinking.

This interdisciplinary foundation equips students with the tools needed to tackle complex global issues, pursue innovative careers, and engage meaningfully in civic life.

Personalized Learning in a Small College Setting

With an enrollment of around 1,000 students, Young Harris College maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio, typically around 12:1. This means students enjoy small class sizes, personalized instruction, and frequent opportunities for mentorship.

Professors at Young Harris College are not just educators—they are advisors, collaborators, and role models. Faculty members are deeply invested in students’ success and are often seen guiding undergraduate research, leading service projects, or supporting extracurricular events.

The college also promotes experiential learning through:

• Internships with businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations

• Undergraduate research opportunities across disciplines

• Community-based learning projects

A Beautiful Campus in the Mountains

The Young Harris College campus is located in Young Harris, Georgia, a small, picturesque town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Surrounded by national forests, lakes, and hiking trails, the setting provides a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere for study and reflection.

Key campus facilities include:

• Rollins Campus Center – the heart of campus life, housing dining services, the student center, classrooms, and lounges

• Goolsby Center – home to the Division of Education and Psychology

• Fine Arts Annex and Glenn~McGinnis Hall – performance and rehearsal spaces for the music and theatre departments

• Duckworth Library – a resource-rich academic hub

• Residential halls offering suite-style and traditional dorm living

The scenic location also provides the perfect backdrop for the college’s Outdoor Leadership program and recreational activities like kayaking, climbing, and camping.

Campus Life and Student Engagement

With more than 60 student organizations, there are countless opportunities for involvement.

Clubs span a wide range of interests, including:

• Academic and professional clubs (e.g., Psychology Club, Pre-Law Society)

• Arts and culture organizations

• Greek life and service fraternities

• Student government and campus programming

• Spiritual and religious life groups

• Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Signature events include Mountain Lion Madness, Greek Week, Sustainability Day, and the Student Leadership Conference. These events build community, enhance campus spirit, and promote leadership among students.

Leadership and Civic Engagement

Leadership is a central tenet of the Young Harris College mission. The college offers:

• Bonner Leaders Program, where students commit to community service and social justice work

• Student Government Association (SGA), representing student interests on campus

• Emerging Leaders Program, designed for first-year students with leadership potential

• Resident Assistant (RA) opportunities in the residence halls

Students often participate in service learning, voter engagement, and local outreach. The college partners with regional nonprofits and community organizations to offer hands-on volunteer experiences.

Arts and Athletics

Performing and Visual Arts

The college’s commitment to the arts is evident in its robust programs in:

• Theatre – featuring mainstage productions, student-directed plays, and acting workshops

• Music – offering choral ensembles, wind symphonies, jazz bands, and voice/instrument instruction

• Creative Writing – a popular major with frequent readings, workshops, and student publications

• Art – through studio courses and campus exhibitions

The Fine Arts department regularly hosts guest performers, artists, and lecturers, enriching cultural life on campus.

Athletics and School Spirit

Young Harris College competes in NCAA Division II as part of the Peach Belt Conference. Known as the Mountain Lions, the college offers varsity sports such as:

• Baseball

• Basketball (Men’s and Women’s)

• Cross Country

• Golf

• Lacrosse

• Soccer

• Softball

• Tennis

• Track and Field

• Volleyball

Athletics at Young Harris College emphasize sportsmanship, academic balance, and personal growth. Student-athletes are supported both on and off the field, with strong academic advising and tutoring resources.

Spiritual and Ethical Growth

Rooted in the United Methodist Church tradition, Young Harris College supports students’ spiritual development through inclusive and interfaith programming. The college encourages reflection on values, purpose, and identity.

The Office of Religious Life offers chapel services, retreats, faith-based clubs, and opportunities for dialogue around ethical issues. While religious affiliation is not required, students from all faiths and belief systems are welcomed and respected.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

Given its natural surroundings, Young Harris College is deeply committed to environmental responsibility. The Sustainability Committee oversees initiatives in:

• Campus recycling and composting

• Energy-efficient infrastructure

• Sustainable landscaping

• Environmental education

• Local food partnerships in the dining hall

Students can join the Environmental Science Club or take courses in sustainability studies, reflecting the college’s growing role in promoting ecological literacy and stewardship.

Career Readiness and Alumni Success

While grounded in the liberal arts, Young Harris College is highly focused on preparing students for meaningful careers. The Office of Career and Professional Development offers:

• Resume building and interview prep

• Job and internship fairs

• Alumni networking events

• Graduate school advising

Young Harris College alumni go on to careers in education, healthcare, public service, business, science, and the arts. Many pursue graduate studies at top universities. The values of integrity, adaptability, and service instilled at Young Harris College help graduates stand out in competitive job markets.

A Transformative Education in the Heart of Appalachia

Young Harris College stands as a unique blend of tradition and innovation. It honors its origins as a school of service in rural Georgia while embracing the complexity and demands of the modern world. With a student-centered approach, Young Harris College empowers individuals to grow intellectually, emotionally, and ethically.

Students leave Young Harris College not just with a degree, but with a deepened sense of identity, a lifelong love of learning, and the readiness to lead with compassion and purpose.

Whether you're drawn by the natural beauty of the Appalachian foothills, the close faculty-student relationships, the active campus life, or the transformational liberal arts curriculum, Young Harris College offers an environment where passion meets possibility—and where students are equipped to make a difference.

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