Appalachian State University

Boone, North Carolina's Appalachian State University is located near the Blue Ridge Mountains. Accordingly, many students attend school here because of the beautiful surroundings and the multitude of outdoor recreation they afford. Moreover, Boone, which gets its name from pioneer Daniel Boone, is a warm and lively college town that is energized by the population of some 17,000 students.

The vast majority of these students are enrolled in one of the university's more than 100 undergraduate degree programs. The rest take courses related to the 50 graduate degrees or pursue the Doctorate in Educational Leadership. In many respects, Appalachian State feels like a small liberal arts institution, yet it also boasts aspects of a major research installation. This successful blend, and the university's outstanding faculty, have placed it at or near the top of many "best college" lists, including U.S. News and World Report, Kiplinger's and Forbes'.

Founded as Watauga Academy in 1899, the institution's initial aim was to educate future teachers. Over the years, the curricula became more diversified, and the student population exploded. Today, the university is divided into several colleges, each one specializing in a particular area of instruction. Students may study anthropology or architecture, dance or geology. Environmental Studies is a particularly popular major, and Appalachian State takes its role as steward of the Blue Ridge Mountains seriously. Many students attend this university with the hopes of learning how to bring the principles of sustainable development to communities around the globe.

Graduate degree and certificate programs are just as diverse. In these programs, students learn to be teachers or computer scientists. One of the largest programs is the perennial favorite Business Administration MBA, which can be earned either on or off campus. Graduate certificate programs in foreign languages, addiction counseling and other subjects are also offered.

With a vibrant campus, excellent access to cutting edge technology and gorgeous surroundings, it's no surprise that Appalachian State University remains a popular choice.