Master of Arts in Appalachian Studies
The Master of Arts for Appalachian Studies is the only degree of its kind in the state of Tennessee and the second such degree in the Appalachian region.
This MA degree is a natural fit for ETSU, with its strong history of service to Appalachia and a mission that embraces its Southern Appalachian identity and setting. Faculty in the Department of Appalachian Studies are widely recognized as leaders in Appalachian-related research and community outreach. The Department works closely with the Center for Appalachian Studies and Services and the Archives of Appalachia, a constituent unit of the Center, to deliver this graduate curriculum.
The Master of Arts in Appalachian Studies is designed to meet the needs of three student audiences:
- Students for whom a graduate degree in the discipline of Appalachian studies would
improve their qualifications for the job
market;
- Students who are already in the workforce but can profit from and perhaps advance in their careers with deeper knowledge of the region; and
- Students who are interested in understanding the region from a variety of historical, cultural, and global perspectives; who will profit from concentrated study and research; and who may plan to enter doctoral programs upon the completion of the degree.
Specific areas of employment that may be enhanced by this degree include education, local and regional planning, economic development, service organizations, cultural and arts organizations, and health-related careers.
The Master of Arts in Appalachian Studies and the Graduate Certificate in Appalachian Studies are complementary graduate programs. A student who completes the Graduate Certificate in Appalachian Studies may transfer all 18 credits to the Master of Arts in Appalachian Studies program, with the approval of the APST graduate coordinator. All transfer credit, however, must meet GPA requirements and must be within the six-year matriculation limit.
If you are interested in pursuing a graduate program in Appalachian studies, please contact Dr. Lee Bidgood, Graduate Program Coordinator, or Dr. Ron Roach, Chair.
Upcoming Spring 2022 Course Offerings
Lee Bidgood, Ph.D.
Graduate Coordinator
(423) 439-8584
bidgood@etsu.edu
Ron Roach, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Appalachian Studies
(423) 439-7494
roachr@etsu.edu