Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University, located in Boone, North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, prepares students to lead purposeful lives as engaged global citizens who understand their responsibilities in creating a sustainable future for all. The transformational Appalachian experience promotes a spirit of inclusion that brings people together in inspiring ways to acquire and create knowledge, to grow holistically, to act with passion and determination, and embrace diversity and difference. Appalachian enrolls about 18,000 students, has a low faculty-to-student ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate majors. It is one of 16 universities in the University of North Carolina system.

Vision and Strategic Direction

Appalachian State University aspires to be the destination institution for dedicated students who seek challenging academic programs and co-curricular experiences, engaged faculty and a vibrant campus culture that will shape them into responsible global citizens. Inspired by the ideal of sustainable community, we seek to deliver the Southeast’s best comprehensive, progressive education.

Facts and History

Appalachian was founded in 1899. The pioneering spirit necessary to overcome the mountains’ hardships quickly characterized the institution, giving Appalachian a special niche in higher education that continues today. After more than a century, students still feel the pull of this unique place to transform their lives, and Appalachian has remained focused on providing students with educational experiences that are not only life-changing but world-changing.

Voluntary System of Accountability College Portrait

The Voluntary System of Accountability (VSA) College Portrait is a source of basic, comparable information designed for anyone to learn more about public 4-year colleges and universities. The VSA project was created to provide a mechanism for public institutions to demonstrate transparency and accountability; provide a streamlined college information tool for students, families, high school counselors, and other consumers; and support institutions in the measurement and reporting of student learning outcomes through original research and by providing a forum for collaboration and exchange.