Appalachian Studies Minor Program Information
Dr. Rebecca Fletcher, Advisor
215 Nicks Hall
Box 70556
(423) 439-7994
e-mail: fletcherra1@etsu.edu
Ron Roach, Ph.D., Chair
222 Nicks Hall
Box 70556
(423) 439-7494
e-mail: roachr@etsu.edu
The Appalachian Studies Minor is an 18 credit interdisciplinary program for students who would like to gain a greater appreciation for and understanding of the Appalachian region. This knowledge is useful for people planning to pursue careers in fields such as public health, medicine, teaching, non-profit work, social work, or any endeavor that brings them in contact with people in Appalachia. Majors for which this minor is especially suitable include but are not limited to history, English, sociology, anthropology, bluegrass, old time, and country music, nursing, public health, social work, and communications.
The minor requires a core of six credits and 12 credits of guided electives. Core courses examine Appalachia’s culture, environment, economy, and politics both historically and currently. Electives allow students to delve more deeply into the region’s literature, art, music, folklore, religion, coal, flora, fauna, and other topics. Students are required to take courses in at least two different departments. No more than three credits taken as part of the Appalachian Studies minor may be counted toward a major in any field. Because courses may be selected from several different departments, students are encouraged to meet with the Appalachian Studies Minor director for advisement regarding class sequences and frequency of offerings and to design a thematic course grouping that suits their personal interests.
Students wishing to explore the Scottish and Irish heritage of the Appalachian region should consult with the Appalachian, Scottish and Irish Studies program director (423) 439-7992.