UNC Asheville’s Office of Special Academic Programs offers a wide range of on-campus continuing education classes this fall. Some 40 courses provide the opportunity to explore subject areas including sign language, foreign languages and music.

Among the highlights of this fall’s offerings are a variety of language skill courses. French is offered on the beginning level, specifically tailored for travel experience, and the intermediate level. Other foreign languages are beginning and intermediate Italian, conversational Spanish, beginning Japanese and an introduction to Russian.

Deaf American Sign Language educator Don Stringfield will teach "American Sign Language" on Wednesdays September 19 - November 14. The course is designed for students with little or no previous knowledge.

"Wild Mushrooms: Lookin’ and Cookin’" takes place on Saturday September 15 and Wednesday September 19. Ethnomycologist Alan Muskat explains how to find, identify and prepare mushrooms.

On Saturdays September 22 -October 13, Jessica Godino, a certified herbalist and co-owner of Red Moon Herbs, explores local wild herbs and their dietary and medical use. A sequel to "Herbal Wisdom: Using Plants Around Us" will be offered on Saturdays October 20 - November 3.

"Creating with Your Camera" is a hands-on, non-darkroom course on Thursdays October 4 – November 8. Milt Butterworth, director of photography for SS Central America Project, will introduce the students to the basics of photography.

Courses are open to the community and begin in September and October, varying from weekly classes to day-long workshops. Fees range from $20 to $145. For an application or more information, call UNCA’s Office of Special Academic Programs at 828/251-6558 or click here.