Appalachian State University

Skip to main content Search type Web People Advanced search Current Students Parents & Family Faculty & Staff Alumni A-Z AsULearn Canvas AppalNet Library Employment Maps Give Why Choose App? Visit Admissions Academics Campus Life About Attend App State in Hickory Learn More Mountaineer Discovery Follow Mountaineers as they roll up their sleeves, test their creative limits and expand the boundaries of knowledge at App State and beyond. Explore Student Research, Creativity and Innovation at App State. Apply Visit Us Connect Find a Program News App State earns R2 designation for high research activity and doctorate production App State has earned a Research 2 designation through the Carnegie Classification system for high research activity and doctorate production. App State’s research expenditures in fiscal year 2023 were more than $8.4 million and, in 2022–23, the university awarded 20 doctoral degrees. High-quality academics, innovation and value secure App State’s spot among America’s top schools for 2025–26 Six national publications — including U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review and Forbes magazine — have recognized App State among the best schools in the nation, and the Southeast, for 2025–26. The publications lauded the university for its academics, innovation and value, among other aspects. UNC System Board of Governors approves App State's new Doctor of Nursing Practice hybrid program In fall 2026, App State will launch a new Doctor of Nursing Practice program, designed to educate family practice nurse practitioners and respond to health care provider shortages, especially in rural areas. The program has been approved by the UNC System Board of Governors. Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris named chancellor of Appalachian State University On Feb. 27, 2025, the UNC Board of Governors elected Dr. Heather Hulburt Norris as the next leader of Appalachian State University. Norris has served as interim chancellor since April 2024. Her car