Appalachian Studies and You
Q: What can I do with a minor or certificate in Appalachian Studies?
A: Whatever you want! As an interdisciplinary minor, Appalachian Studies can benefit students from all majors. The courses in Appalachian Studies are not limiting, they can help broaden your horizons and enhance opportunities!
♦ Regional Understanding:
Appalachia covers a wide area over multiple states from Mississippi all the way up into New York, yet many myths and stereotypes still dominate the view of the region. Whether you’re from the mountains or you simply want to learn more, we invite you to come explore these ancient mountains with their dynamic and diverse forest ecology, and the rich history and distinctive culture of the complex and diverse people who call Appalachia home.
♦ Cultural Competency
Understanding the unique history and culture of the regional is a desirable qualification for many outreach and service professions in such areas as
- Health care & Counseling
- Public safety & police
- studies
- Education
- Public policy
- Nonprofit management
♦ Leadership Preparation
Many courses provide opportunities to study complex social, political, economic, and environmental issues of interest to those who want to be active in the dynamic changes shaping and reshaping the emerging “Next Appalachian Economy”
♦ Hands-on Experience for Many Majors
Does your major require a “capstone experience” such as an applied research, co-op, or internship? Personalized courses such as APP 490 [Independent Study] can be designed to not only enrich your regional understanding, but also give you valuable hands-on experience directly related to your field or discipline. Examples of past projects include:
- Tourism Analysis of Elkhorn City, Pike County
- Biological assessment of headwater stream health in Letcher & Perry Counties
- Internship with Mountain Eagle newspaper
- “Grow Appalachia” internship establishing community
- gardens in Leslie, Clay, and Bell counties
- Kentucky Riverkeeper water assessment maps for Kentucky River Watershed
Come learn, explore, and grow!
