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.
Colleges and Schools
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
Dr. Amy Wood appointed Associate Vice Provost for Academics and Community Outreach at App State Hickory campus
Mar 17, 2025
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...
Acting Provost Specht's Remarks to Faculty Senate – Mar. 3, 2025
Mar 3, 2025
Thank you, Jacqui, and good afternoon, everyone.I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Jacqui for her empathetic, pragmatic and gr...
Acting Provost Specht's Remarks to Faculty Senate – Feb. 10, 2025
Feb 10, 2025
Thank you, Jacqui, and good afternoon, everyone.I know both Jacqui and Jennifer had other academic commitments and couldn't be part of the faculty/sta...
Remarks from the 2025 Spring Faculty and Staff Meeting - February 7, 2025
Feb 7, 2025
Remarks from Acting Provost Neva J. SpechtThank you, Chancellor Norris, and welcome everyone. Thank you to everyone who is here in the room with us to...
Acting Provost Specht's Remarks to Faculty Senate – Jan. 13, 2025
Jan 13, 2025
Thank you, Jacqui, and good afternoon, everyone.Welcome to a new semester! While the weather has been making the beginning of the semester interesting...