Residential Learning Communities and Specialized Housing

Discover Your Home Away From Home at UNC

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Explore UNC’s Residential Learning Communities and Specialized Housing—designed to give students a close-knit community within a large university, where you live, learn, and connect.

Why choose a Residential Learning Community?

Living and learning together across shared interests isn’t just fun—it’s a research-backed strategy that helps students thrive. Your participation in living-learning communities is linked to stronger academic success, greater retention, and a deeper sense of belonging at college.

  • A true sense of belonging. Living alongside peers who share your major or interests helps build lasting friendships, personal support, and a deeper connection to UNC’s community
  • Smooth transition to college life. These programs ease your shift into college by blending academics, campus engagement, and social activities—all in a welcoming residential setting
  • Purpose-driven programming. Each community hosts intentional activities, mentorship opportunities, faculty engagement, and academic support tailored to your interests—from entrepreneurship and cultural identity to outdoor adventure

Ready to explore?

We welcome you to browse our communities below and find your people, your passion, and your path at UNC.

Residential Learning Communities

Biology

North Hall 2nd Floor south (Low)

Love biology? Imagine living with people who share your passion.

In the Biology Residential Learning Community, you’ll be surrounded by fellow students who are also majoring in or interested in biology at UNC.

It’s more than just a place to live—it’s a community where your curiosity and love for biology can grow every day.

Monfort College of Business

North Hall, 4th Floor South (Low)

Live side by side with future business leaders. In this community, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other Monfort College of Business students, swap ideas, and work together on class projects.

Criminology & Criminal Justice

North Hall, 5th Floor West (High)

Network from day one with peers and faculty who share your passion for justice, law, and public safety. Living here means building relationships that can lead to internships, research opportunities, and career connections—all while supporting each other through the demands of your program.

Education

North Hall, 1st Floor South (Low)

Designed for future teachers, this community connects you with others preparing to lead classrooms of their own. Share lesson ideas, study together, and build friendships that will follow you into your career in education.”

Go On and Learn (GOAL)

North Hall, 3rd Floor South (Low) & Lawrenson

GOAL is UNC’s inclusive higher education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here, you’ll find a supportive environment that celebrates abilities, encourages independence, and fosters friendships with peers across campus.

Honors, Scholars, & Leaders

Hansen-Willis Hall, 3rd Floor; North Hall, 6th Floor

Live and learn alongside fellow students in UNC’s Honors Program. Whether you’re collaborating on projects, preparing for class, or relaxing at the end of the day, you’ll be surrounded by curious, motivated peers who inspire you to do your best work.

Mindful Living

North Hall, 4th Floor West (High)

Discover a lifestyle that balances academic success with personal well-being. Sponsored by UNC’s Center for Applied Contemplative Studies, this community focuses on mindfulness, stress management, and living fully in the present. Build habits that enhance your relationships, studies, and outlook on life.

Nursing Exploring

North Hall, 2nd Floor West (High)

If you’re a Nursing Exploring major, this is your place. Live with classmates, form study groups, and share the unique journey of preparing for a career in healthcare. The Nursing Exploring community is a supportive space where academic collaboration and personal connection go hand in hand.

Outdoor Pursuits

North Hall, 3rd Floor West (High)

For students who live for adventure, this community offers endless ways to explore. Partnered with UNC’s Outdoor Pursuits and Gear Shop, you’ll have access to trips, equipment, and outdoor experiences—from hiking and camping to paddle boarding and rock climbing.

Performing & Visual Arts

Hansen-Willis Hall, 2nd Floor

Immerse yourself in a vibrant community of artists, musicians, dancers, and performers. Share creative energy, collaborate on projects, and inspire each other to grow as artists—both in and out of the classroom.

First-Year Queer Living Community

North Hall, 5th Floor South (Low)

Find a supportive, affirming home where you can be your authentic self. This community welcomes students across the gender, sexual, and romantic identity spectrums and connects you with other students living their authentic truth.

Returning Queer Living Community

Berkenkotter House

A welcoming space for returning students across the gender, sexual, and romantic identity spectrums. Located near the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center, this community offers connection, advocacy, and a network of friends who understand and celebrate you.

Specialized Housing

Pet-Friendly Community

Belford Hall; Lawrenson Hall (6th–9th Floors); Harrison Hall, 2nd Floor North (High)

Love animals? This is your place. The Pet-Friendly Community lets you share your college experience with your dog or cat—after completing our quick approval process.

Here’s why students love it:

  • Live with your furry best friend – Keep your pet close for comfort, companionship, and joy during your college journey.
  • Pet-lover paradise – Even if you don’t bring your own pet, you’ll live among other animal lovers who make the community feel warm and welcoming.
  • Built-in support network – Connect with fellow pet owners who understand the joys (and responsibilities) of campus pet life.

Additional application documents are required to join this community, so be sure to plan ahead.

Graduate Student Housing

Lawrenson Hall & Arlington Park, Building 1

Starting grad school? Make your home in a community designed just for graduate students. Here, you’ll enjoy apartment‑style living that balances independence with connection.

Why you’ll love it:

  • Live among peers – Share your space with other grad students who understand the demands of advanced study.
  • Apartment‑style comfort – Enjoy more privacy, your own kitchen, and a layout that supports both focus and relaxation.
  • Built‑in community – Form friendships, share resources, and network with others who are also navigating graduate school.

It’s the perfect mix of independence and support while you continue your educational journey at UNC.

Transfer Student Housing

Lawrenson Hall, 4th Floor

Transferring to UNC? Settle into a space designed for students making the same move you are. In this apartment‑style community, you’ll find both independence and a network of peers who understand your journey.

Why you’ll love it:

  • Instant connections – Live with other transfer students who are also building their UNC experience from day one.
  • Apartment‑style comfort – Enjoy your own kitchen and a setup that’s perfect for balancing study, social time, and relaxation.
  • Shared experiences – Swap tips, share resources, and navigate your transition together.

It’s a supportive, comfortable home base to launch your UNC story as a transfer student.