Appalachian State University Programs & Rankings

Business programs at Appalachian State demonstrate strong market performance with multiple programs ranking in the top 100 nationally. Information Resources Management leads earnings at $74,624 and ranks #21 nationally, while Construction Management produces $69,955 earnings with #18 national ranking.

Banking and Financial Support Services graduates earn $69,084. These programs consistently deliver above-median earnings with manageable debt levels, making them well-suited for students prioritizing career preparation and financial returns.

Health professions show solid earnings potential with Adult Health Nurse/Nursing graduates earning $65,602 annually. With 183 graduates, this represents a substantial program with consistent outcomes.

The nursing program ranks #176 nationally but #6 in North Carolina, indicating strong regional positioning. These programs typically offer clear career pathways and stable employment prospects, best suited for students committed to healthcare service careers.

Biology, General produces graduates earning $50,786 and ranks #121 nationally with 187 students. Environmental Science graduates earn $36,423, reflecting career paths in conservation and research that often prioritize mission over compensation.

These programs serve students interested in scientific careers and graduate school preparation, with Biology showing particularly strong outcomes.

Social science programs show varied outcomes, with Psychology representing the largest program at 250 graduates earning $36,627. American Government and Politics graduates earn $39,883 from a program of 120 students.

These programs often prepare students for graduate school or public service careers where earnings may grow significantly with experience, suited for students prioritizing intellectual engagement over immediate financial returns.

Communications programs excel both nationally and regionally, with Advertising ranking #38 nationally and #1 in North Carolina. Graduates earn $45,914 with 156 students in the program, indicating both quality and scale.

This flagship program demonstrates Appalachian State's strength in preparing students for media and marketing careers, best suited for students seeking creative communication roles.

Creative programs show surprising market strength, particularly Commercial Photography, which ranks #21 nationally and delivers $48,073 earnings with an impressive 81.7 value score. This program demonstrates that creative fields can generate solid financial outcomes when aligned with market demands.

These programs appeal to students balancing creative expression with practical career considerations.

Education programs include Adult and Continuing Education producing graduates earning $40,033, ranking #122 nationally with 203 students. Agricultural Teacher Education graduates earn $41,584 with 122 students.

These programs typically lead to public service careers with stable employment and benefits packages that extend beyond base salary figures, appealing to students prioritizing community impact and educational mission.

Environmental Science graduates earn $36,423, reflecting career paths in conservation, research, and environmental policy that often emphasize mission over compensation. With 104 graduates, this program serves students interested in environmental careers and advanced study.

These programs appeal to students prioritizing environmental stewardship and scientific research over purely financial considerations.

Corrections Administration graduates earn $44,739 from a cohort of 127 students, ranking #123 nationally. This program demonstrates solid career preparation for law enforcement and corrections careers that often include comprehensive benefits packages and advancement opportunities.

Best suited for students committed to public safety and criminal justice careers.