Mike McKenzie, Dean
Marie Hoepfl, Associate Dean
www.graduate.appstate.edu
With responsibility for all aspects of graduate education at Appalachian, the Graduate School includes a Graduate Faculty represented by the Dean, who is the administrative officer for the Graduate School, and the Graduate Academic and Policies and Procedures Committee. The Dean reports to the Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
Mission
The Cratis D. Williams School of Graduate Studies supports the academic and professional development of graduate students by offering a challenging intellectual environment that promotes shared learning and discovery. A supportive graduate faculty advances graduate students’ curiosity, passion, and knowledge, engaging students as colleagues and guiding students to become active contributors to knowledge, creativity, and innovation in their disciplines.
Guiding Principles
The Graduate School accomplishes its mission by developing, fostering, and monitoring quality graduate degree and certificate programs; ensuring a highly qualified and engaged graduate faculty; and supporting graduate students through fellowships, tuition scholarships, assistantships, student awards, and research grants.
Vision
Graduate education is a fundamental part of the University’s strategic priorities, and the Graduate School aspires to be recognized for innovative and responsive graduate programs that provide relevant academic and professional experiences for its students, preparing them for rewarding careers in the increasingly diverse communities of North Carolina, the nation, and the world.
Goals for Graduate Education
The School of Graduate Studies advocates the following educational goals for each graduate student:
- Students will demonstrate mastery of the discipline at a level of rigor commensurate with post-baccalaureate education.
- Students will develop and apply skills in current research and/or professional practices to address complex issues in an increasingly diverse and global society.
- Students will acquire an understanding of and commitment to professional ethical standards.
- Students will communicate effectively in ways that are professionally appropriate.
In support of these educational goals and with the collaboration of the colleges, schools, and departments, the Cratis D. Williams School of Graduate Studies will advocate for graduate education and will:
- Work to enhance graduate programs through:
- ongoing assessment of degree and certificate programs in the context of the University’s mission and current research and practice;
- enforcement of admission standards appropriate to identify qualified students who have the ability to complete a graduate program successfully;
- validation of student progress and adherence to the curriculum;
- review and appointment of members of the graduate faculty.
- Work to secure and efficiently allocate financial resources, including assistantships, fellowships, tuition scholarships, and research grants, consistent with the needs of graduate education.
- Provide guidance and support for recruiting increasingly qualified and diverse applicant pools.
- Facilitate graduate program development.
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