A Rigorous Student Experience

At Appalachian, student learning and student success come from a challenging academic curriculum, active classroom environments and close collaboration between faculty members and students on scholarly activities. A strong emphasis on undergraduate research, international experiences, interdisciplinary connections and measurable learning outcomes that assess student progress are at the core of Appalachian's academic activities.

Academic Affairs is responsible for student learning and success, including oversight of the university’s challenging academic curriculum, active classroom environments, and close collaboration between faculty members and students on scholarly activities. Academic Affairs encompasses the degree-granting colleges and 12 other units that support the innovative, interdisciplinary and integrative academic experience for which Appalachian is known. Find out more about how Appalachian prepares students to lead purposeful lives as engaged global citizens who understand their responsibilities in creating a sustainable future for all https://www.appstate.edu/about/.

Colleges and Schools

College of Arts and Sciences

Sixteen departments span the humanities, social sciences, and the mathematical and natural sciences.

The college places emphasis on international experiences, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurial programs and real-world applications with industry. 

The college has one of the largest teacher education programs in the University of North Carolina system. It also houses programs in human development and counseling, leadership, and family and consumer science.

This college comprises the departments of Applied Design, Art, Communication, Military Science and Leadership, Sustainable Development, and Theatre and Dance.

The school offers more than 50 master's and certificate programs and one doctoral program – on the main campus, at off-campus locations and online.

The college positions Appalachian as the premier university for outstanding academic preparation of health and human services professionals.

The school prepares performers, composers, music educators, music therapists, conductors, and music industry professionals.

All undergraduate students begin their education here, through the General Education Program, co-curricular programs and student support programs.

This program attracts students in the top 5 to 10 percent of their graduating high school class.

News

Provost Norris' Remarks to Faculty Senate - Feb. 12, 2024

Provost Norris’ Remarks to Faculty Senate – Feb. 12, 2024 Good afternoon. Today, my comments will address a range of topics including:The app...

Remarks from the 2024 Spring Faculty and Staff Meeting - February 2, 2024

Remarks from Provost Heather Hulburt Norris:Good afternoon, and welcome to the Spring Faculty and Staff meeting!It’s great to see everyone here toda...

Reminder: 2024 Spring Faculty and Staff Meeting, Friday, Feb. 2

 Dear Campus Colleagues, As a reminder, the 2024 Spring Meeting for Faculty and Staff will take place Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, at 2 p.m. in the...

Academic Affairs Update: New Professional Development Resource

Sent on behalf of Dr. Neva J. Specht, Senior Vice Provost of Faculty Policies and Development.Dear Faculty and Staff, The Division of Academic Af...

Implementation of Strategic Plan for Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities

Academic Affairs Update: RSCA Strategic PlanSent on behalf of Dr. Christine Hendren, Interim Vice Provost of Research and Innovation. Dear Facult...