You really want to do this!

Students enroll in the Department of Art for many reasons:

  • To join a creative community that values innovation and critical thinking as much as it values technical skills and craftsmanship
  • To develop a new relationship with the larger world both near and far
  • To prepare for vital and exciting careers in the visual arts
  • To explore the incredible natural beauty and amazing cultural opportunities of the mountains
  • To receive a first-rate education that integrates the academic, social and artistic diversity of a large university while retaining the sense of community, innovation and support for which Appalachian State is famous.

Our six degree programs emphasize creative expression, innovation, real world problem-solving, academic rigor and technical skill. Regardless of your degree track, the Department will help you define your creative role in this ever-changing world.

Open spread of a children’s book page titled “Let’s Learn Italian!” featuring a pastel pink street map layout with Italian words and their English translations inside street blocks, decorated with playful illustrations of plants, icons, and a small green dog character.

Spread from Pepe’s Adventures Through Florence, Italy

Mary Lauren Willis
Two-panel mockup of The Sauce Cult website, featuring bright pink, yellow, and orange branding, scattered sauce jars, subscription details, and an "About the Cult" section.

Website for The Sauce Cult

Krysta Glova
Group of students and an instructor gathered around a workbench during a critique session. Metal casting tools and small sculpted pieces are laid out on the table.
Faculty member writing on a whiteboard while a student looks on attentively in a painting studio, colorful student canvases visible on the wall behind them.

Application Process

You must apply and be admitted to the university. If you are a transfer student, visit our Transfer Admissions page.

I. APPLY TO THE UNIVERSITY

Apply to the university and indicate Art as your intended major on the application.

II. PORTFOLIO REVIEWS

A portfolio review is not required to apply to the university, but the following programs require one after the completion of a proscribed number of courses as a prerequisite to taking upper level courses:

Student Orientation Sessions

If you are accepted, it is important for you to attend one of the Incoming Student Orientation Sessions offered by the university and in the department. Whether you are a Transfer Student or a First Term Freshman, there you will be advised as to which courses to register for in your first term at ASU.

The student community here is incredibly open and collaborative. Everyone is eager to share their interests and passions, creating an environment where ideas flow freely and connections are made across disciplines. Whether you're working on a project together or just having a conversation, there’s a genuine openness to learning from one another.

Samantha Oleschuk
A group of students gathers in a circular formation outdoors, sitting and talking together in a sunlit brick courtyard.

I chose to study at App State because I’ve always been drawn to the mountains. I love that I can escape the busyness of daily life by immersing myself in nature. I draw so much inspiration from the natural world.

Sandy Zufall