The Reich College of Education, in partnership with the Cratis D. Williams Graduate School, offers qualified undergraduate students the opportunity to begin graduate study while completing their bachelor's degree. Through the Accelerated Master's Program, you can develop advanced expertise, strengthen your credentials, and prepare for the next stage of your career in education.


Why Choose an Accelerated Master's Program?

An accelerated master's degree can help you:

  • Strengthen your qualifications for future employment
  • Develop specialized expertise in your field
  • Gain additional experiential learning opportunities
  • Pursue master's-level licensure
  • Prepare for teaching at the community college or university level
  • Continue your education through doctoral study, including App State's Ed.D. program
  • Expand your knowledge and skills to better support student success

Available Programs

The following accelerated master's programs are available through the Reich College of Education:


Are You Eligible?

You may be eligible to apply if you:

  • Are enrolled as an undergraduate student at Appalachian State University
  • Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2
  • Will have completed at least 75 credit hours by the end of the application semester
  • Are approximately one year away from completing your undergraduate degree

Note: Applications from students with fewer than 75 credit hours will be held until the end of the semester for further review.


Application Timeline

Before Reaching 75 Credit Hours

  • Attend an Accelerated Master's Program information session.

After Reaching 75 Credit Hours

  • Meet with your program director to discuss program options and eligibility.

Approximately One Year Before Graduation

  • Submit your graduate application.
  • Complete all required application materials.

How to Apply

Required Application Materials

Before applying, prepare the following:

  1. Resume
  2. Three Academic Recommendations
    • Recommendations should come from faculty members or other academic references familiar with your work.

Application Process

  1. Attend an information session.
  2. Meet with your program director.
  3. Apply through the Graduate School application portal.
  4. Submit your resume and three academic recommendations.
  5. Complete any additional requirements requested by your graduate program.

Application Deadlines

Entry TermApplication OpensApplication Deadline
SpringOctober 15November 1
Summer IMarch 15April 1
Summer IIMarch 15April 1
FallMarch 15July 1

Important: Your proposed admission term should be after completion of your undergraduate degree. For example, May graduates typically apply for Summer I admission unless instructed otherwise by their program.