Welcome to the Department of Appalachian Studies at
East Tennessee State University
The Department of Appalachian Studies at East Tennessee State University stands at
the forefront of service-based learning. Situated in the heart of Appalachia, it offers
a unique opportunity to engage with the region through research, community service,
and hands-on projects. As the only institution in the nation to dedicate an entire
academic department to Appalachian Studies, ETSU provides graduate-level courses that
deepen understanding of this vibrant region.
The Department of Appalachian Studies hosts the Appalachian, Scottish, and Irish Studies
(ASIS) program, which responds to the growing interest in cultural exchange and evolution
within Appalachia. In addition to offering courses in history, folklore, and folklife,
the program provides language and music classes, exchange opportunities in Scotland
and Ireland, and an immersive study abroad experience in these countries every summer.
Beyond its academic offerings, the Department of Appalachian Studies is home to essential
resources through the Center of Excellence in Appalachian Studies and Services. Students
also benefit from distinctive community-based learning opportunities, such as the
Archives of Appalachia, which houses one of the largest collections of Appalachian
documents and media globally, and the nationally accredited Reece Museum, known for
its exceptional exhibitions and collections.
The Department, established in 2008, includes the Bachelor of Arts in Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music Studies, the leading program in its field and the first four-year degree of its kind in the world. In addition, the Department offers several minors:
- Appalachian Studies
- Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Country Music Studies
- Brewing & Distillation Studies
- Environmental Studies
- Heritage Interpretation and Museum Studies
- Old-Time Music
- Scottish and Irish Traditional Music
In addition to its undergraduate programs, the Department offers both a Master of Arts in Appalachian Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Appalachian Studies, which are a natural fit for ETSU, with its strong history of service to Appalachia and a mission that embraces its Southern Appalachian identity and setting. Most of the graduate certificate is offered online as well as on-campus, and a number of the courses in the master of arts program are offered online.
Thank you for your interest in Appalachian Studies. Take time to look around and please let us know if you have any questions or if we may be of help.
Ron Roach, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Appalachian Studies
Director, Center of Excellence for Appalachian Studies and Services