About the College

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) at Appalachian State University is home to 17 academic departments, two centers, and one residential college spanning the humanities and the social, mathematical, and natural sciences. The college is dedicated to providing instruction and research essential to the University's mission and seeks to cultivate the habits of inquiry, learning, and service among all its constituents. Learn more about CAS.

College News

App State alumnus Forrest Gilliam ’08, GROW NC legislative director, second from right in foreground, addresses community members in downtown Marshall following Hurricane Helene. Photo courtesy of GROW NC

Forrest Gilliam ’08 among App State Mountaineers working to rebuild Western NC 2 years after Helene

BOONE, N.C. — When Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina in September 2024, the Appalachian State University Community rallied to suppo...

By Giada Copersito

2 years after Helene, local organizations fear aid is in jeopardy [faculty featured]

Wayne Pitts, associate professor in App State’s Department of Government and Justice Studies and former executive director of Ashe County’s Habita...

Tammy Sexton

Influential Women features Tammy Sexton [alumna featured]

Winston-Salem, North Carolina – For more than four decades, Tammy Sexton has played an important role behind the scenes of scientific discovery, pro...

Dr. Ellen Key

UNCA students navigate mixed opinions on voting ahead of the midterms [faculty featured]

“If you want politicians to take you seriously, you need to make your voice non-ignorable. The best way to do that is by voting,” said Ellen Key, ...

Studio portrait of a bearded man with long brown hair and black glasses, wearing a blue-and-white checked shirt against a dark background, smiling gently.

Dr. Andy Davidson leads study on temperature, predator-prey interactions

BOONE, N.C. — Dr. Andy Davidson, teaching assistant professor in Appalachian State University’s Department of Biology, is the lead author of a new...

Stay connected with the college — explore upcoming events, workshops, and celebrations on our events calendar.

Faculty and Staff Awards

Faculty and Staff Awards

Each year, the College of Arts and Sciences recognizes several members of the faculty and staff for outstanding service, teaching, or scholarly work.

Commencement

Commencement

The Fall 2026 College of Arts and Sciences Commencement Ceremony will be held on Friday, December 11, at 9 a.m.

SAFE Fund

SAFE Fund

The SAFE Fund provides resources that can be used to transform the student experience and support faculty teaching, research, and engagement.

Open House

Open House

The Fall 2026 Boone Open House will be held on Saturday, October 17, and Hickory Open House will be held on Saturday, October 24.