<p>Okay, I didn't get an answer when I asked in Taxguy's thread, so let me start a new thread and rephrase the question...</p>
<p>Why do (or don't) major universities seek accreditation for their visual and/or performing art programs? I ask because my son's applying to art programs both at University of California campuses and Cal State campuses. Many of the CSUs have accredited programs, but none of the UCs do. (On the other hand, UCLA has an accredited Drama program, and UCSB has an accredited Dance program... go figure.)</p>
<p>So I'm wondering: why many major universities with good art programs DON'T apply for NASAD accreditation (e.g., UCLA) while others (e.g., U of Mich) do? Could someone please enlighten me?</p>
<p>Mamoose, I really didn't have an answer,which is why I didn't respond. Most of the major art programs ARE NASAD accredited. </p>
<p>According to NASAD's web site, "NASAD, founded in 1944, is an organization of schools, colleges, and universities. It has approximately 280 accredited institutional members. It establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials. " They periodically review the school to ensure that they maintain the standards and quality required by NASAD.</p>
<p>My only explanation is that getting NASAD accredited requires a certain amount of liberal arts courses,which some schools might not want to have. In addition, it is probably a real pain to get the accreditation that some schools might not want to go through especially since it is an optional extra accreditation.</p>
<p>I asked one of the art professors at Towson University here in Maryland why they weren't NASAD accredited, and all I got were stares and embarrased looks. I can't give you a good answer. Why don't you call UCLA and ask the art department chair. Who knows? Maybe they are in the process of seeking accreditation.</p>
<p>If you can indulge my ignorance a bit further...</p>
<p>Is it possible that that universities that focus on fine/studio art and don't really have design curricula don't fit into the accreditation model? I mean, I tend to think of Stanford and Yale as having strong art programs, but neither of them are accredited.</p>
<p>I'll take your advice and pose the question if/when we take "second look" tours.</p>
<p>Mamoose, honestly I don't understand why some universities go for NASAD accreditation and some don't. Schools like MICA and RISD are very fine arts and design oriented. Schools like Pratt and University of Cincinnati, who are both very design oriented, are accredited; yet sc hools like Yale, Stanford and UCLA aren't.</p>
<p>Personally, I think it is a functure of arrogance. Schools like Yale, Stanford and UCLA might feel that they have enough name value as to not have to go through the NASAD accreditation process. Your guess is as good as mine.</p>