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.

 Learn more about App State

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

2025 Campus Budget Briefings — presentations posted

Dear Campus Colleagues,Thank you to everyone who attended the 2025 Campus Budget and Strategic Initiatives Briefings on Tuesday, April 22.At the event...

Reminder: 2025 Campus Budget and Strategic Initiatives Briefings are Tuesday, April 22

Dear Campus Colleagues,As a reminder, the 2025 Campus Budget and Strategic Initiatives Briefings will take place Tuesday, April 22, from 8 a.m. to noo...

Acting Provost Specht's Remarks to Faculty Senate – Apr. 14, 2025

Thank you, Jacqui, and good afternoon, everyone.As we near the end of the academic year, I have information to share with you related to:University le...

New Fulbright Fellowship Support Guidelines and Application Process

Dear Faculty,We are pleased to share new App State Fulbright Fellowship Support Guidelines. These guidelines:are designed to provide a clear...

Dr. Amy Wood appointed Associate Vice Provost for Academics and Community Outreach at App State Hickory campus

Dear App State Faculty, Staff and Students,I am pleased to announce that Dr. Amy Wood has been appointed Associate Vice Provost for Academics and Comm...