Appalachian State University: A Large Student Body

Appalachian State University, also known as App State, is a public university in Boone, North Carolina. It was founded in 1899 and has since expanded to include a campus in Hickory and online courses. The university has a strong reputation for its innovative teaching and commitment to providing access to high-quality, affordable education for all. In Fall 2024, App State enrolled over 21,000 students, making it the largest enrollment in the university's history. The student body is diverse and includes a significant number of first-generation and underrepresented students. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, App State offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines.

Appalachian State University's total student population

Appalachian State University, also known as App State, is a public university in Boone, North Carolina, with an additional campus in Hickory. The university was founded in 1899 as a teachers' college and now offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate degree programmes across six undergraduate colleges, one music school, and one graduate school.

App State's total student population has varied over the years, with the most recent data showing an enrolment of 21,570 students in Fall 2024. This number includes both undergraduate and graduate students across the Boone and Hickory campuses, as well as those enrolled in App State Online programmes.

App State's student body is diverse, with a significant number of first-generation, transfer, and rural students. The university has a strong commitment to increasing access to higher education for students from rural areas and low-income families, and this is reflected in its enrolment numbers.

The university's retention and graduation rates are also notable, with App State consistently achieving high rates compared to the national average. The university's first-to-second-year retention rate for 2024 was 83.7%, well above the national average of 76.5%. Additionally, App State's four-year graduation rate of 58% is nearly 70% above the national average.

App State's total student population benefits from small class sizes, high-quality student and faculty interaction, and excellent undergraduate research opportunities. The university's commitment to accessibility, academic excellence, and student success has contributed to its strong enrolment numbers and positive reputation.

Undergraduate and graduate student numbers

Appalachian State University, founded in 1899, has a large student body with a total enrollment of over 21,000 students. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its innovative teaching and commitment to providing a high-quality, affordable education.

Undergraduate Student Numbers:

For the fall of 2023, Appalachian State University enrolled 19,405 undergraduate students, a nearly 5% increase from the previous year. This includes 4,227 new first-year students, making it the largest first-year class in the university's history. The undergraduate population also consists of a significant number of first-generation students, with 6,083 students or 31% of the total undergraduate population falling into this category.

Graduate Student Numbers:

Appalachian State University offers over 80 graduate degree and certificate programs. For the fall of 2023, the university enrolled 1,848 graduate students. The graduate programs prepare students for success in their careers and life, with many graduate students conducting primary research and presenting at professional conferences under the mentorship of their professors.

The university's total enrollment for the fall of 2023 was 21,253 students, making it the largest enrollment in the school's history. This includes students from both the Boone and Hickory campuses, as well as those enrolled in App State Online programs.

First-year student numbers

Appalachian State University, also known as App State, is a public university in Boone, North Carolina, with a secondary campus in Hickory.

App State's first-year student numbers have been steadily increasing over the years, with the university enrolling its largest-ever cohort of first-year students in Fall 2023. Here is a breakdown of the first-year student numbers over the years:

Fall 2024

In Fall 2024, App State enrolled 4,038 new first-year students. This was a slight decrease from the previous year but still represented a strong cohort of new students.

Fall 2023

App State welcomed its largest-ever first-year class in Fall 2023, with 4,227 new first-year students. This was a nearly 8% increase from the previous year and set a record for the university.

Fall 2022

While specific data for first-year students is not available for Fall 2022, we know that App State enrolled a total of 20,436 students that year, with an overall increase of more than 21,000 students across its campuses.

Fall 2020

In Fall 2020, App State had a first-year retention rate of 83.7%, which is impressive and well above the national average of 76.5%. This indicates that the majority of first-year students from Fall 2019 returned for their second year in Fall 2020.

Fall 2019

App State's six-year graduation rate for the Fall 2019 first-year cohort was 68.9%, indicating that a significant portion of first-year students from Fall 2014 completed their degrees within six years.

Fall 2018

The six-year graduation rate for the Fall 2018 first-year cohort was 74.5%, demonstrating App State's commitment to student success and degree completion.

App State's first-year student numbers have been strong and consistent, with the university attracting and retaining a significant number of new students each year. The increase in first-year students, especially in Fall 2023, showcases the university's appeal and high-quality education.

Student population growth

Appalachian State University, a public institution in Boone, North Carolina, has seen consistent growth in its student population since its founding in 1899. The university's commitment to providing access to high-quality, affordable education has resulted in a steady increase in enrolment over the years.

In Fall 2023, the university welcomed 21,253 students, a historic high and a 4% increase from the previous year. This growth was driven by the largest first-year and online student populations in the university's history, with a notable rise in underrepresented students, comprising 19% of the total population. The university's dedication to serving rural and low-income communities has contributed to this diverse student body.

The expansion of the Hickory campus in 2023 and the continued development of App State Online have been significant contributors to the university's overall student population growth. The Hickory campus, in particular, has provided access to higher education for students in the Western North Carolina region.

App State's Fall 2024 enrolment figures further emphasised its consistent growth, with a total of 21,570 students, representing a 1.5% increase over the previous year. This growth was primarily driven by the significant increase in the Hickory campus and App State Online student populations, while the Boone campus population remained steady.

The university's strong retention and graduation rates, coupled with its focus on student success, have contributed to its positive reputation and sustained enrolment growth. App State's first-to-second-year retention rate for 2024 was 83.7%, surpassing the national average of 76.5%. Additionally, the four-year graduation rate for 2024 was 58%, nearly 70% above the national average.

App State's commitment to accessibility, innovation in academics, and dedication to student success have positioned it as a premier public institution, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and fostering a vibrant campus community.

Student-to-faculty ratio

Appalachian State University is a public institution with a current enrolment of over 21,000 students. The university has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, with a 25-student average class size. The student-faculty ratio is a key metric for prospective students, indicating the level of interaction and mentorship they can expect from their professors.

The university's low student-to-faculty ratio is a significant advantage, as it allows for more personalised learning and support. This ratio also enables meaningful relationships between students and faculty, creating a sense of community and engagement. With a smaller number of students per professor, students can benefit from more individual attention and guidance, enhancing their educational experience.

Appalachian State University's commitment to a low student-to-faculty ratio aligns with its mission to provide high-quality, accessible education. This ratio ensures that students receive the necessary support and resources to succeed in their academic pursuits. It also fosters a collaborative and inclusive learning environment, where students can actively participate in their educational journey.

The university's dedication to maintaining a low student-to-faculty ratio is a testament to its focus on student success and satisfaction. This ratio empowers students to take full advantage of the educational opportunities available, maximising their potential for academic growth and personal development.

Appalachian State University's low student-to-faculty ratio is a key factor in its reputation as a premier public institution, offering innovative teaching and a high-quality education. This ratio plays a crucial role in the university's ability to provide a transformative educational experience for its students, empowering them to lead purposeful lives and make a positive impact in the world.

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