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.

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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

Acting Provost Specht's Remarks to Faculty Senate – Nov. 11, 2024

Thank you, Jennifer, and good afternoon, everyone.I hope you’re all finding a sense of routine that is helping you continue to move forward in your ...

Message from Mark Ginn, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education — Logistical support and resources for the resumption of classes

In follow up to Acting Provost Specht’s Oct. 9 message, please see below for logistical support and resources that will be available to you in ...

Message from Neva J. Specht, Acting Provost — Reopening logistics for teaching and learning

In follow up to Chancellor Norris’ message yesterday, I want to share some information about what the return to classes on Oct. 16 will look li...

Message from Acting Provost, Neva J. Specht

We’re approaching a week since the first indication that Helene could be coming to the High Country. I’m guessing most of us had no idea that the ...

App State partners with Project Kitty Hawk to offer 5 streamlined App State Online programs in 2024–25

The degree programs in health care management, supply chain management, accounting, criminal justice, and organizational leadership and learning are d...