Founded in 2002 the Carolina Asia Center (CAC) is the University of North Carolina's flagship organization for Asia-related activities and plays an important role in promoting the university's internationalization strategy.

The CAC has three core activities: cutting-edge research; innovative teaching; and the development of strategic partnerships. The CAC works with partner organizations to coordinate Carolina's broad Asian studies agenda, facilitating multidisciplinary approaches to Asian Studies, embedding Asian languages and area studies in the curriculum, and enhancing the Carolina student's experience of Asia.

In seeking to expand the relevance of Asia-related studies beyond its traditional constituencies, the CAC is in the unique position of being able to work with all departments in the College and with all of the Universities' professional schools. With foundation, donor, and federal government support, the CAC has worked to strengthen and promote diversity in Asian studies at Carolina through the development of opportunities for faculty, enhancing library holdings, expanding study abroad and promoting a range of Asia-related activities on campus.