National Association of Schools of Dance, Commission on Accreditation NASD

Overview

The National Association of Schools of Dance, Commission on Accreditation (NASD COA) is a U.S.-based accrediting body dedicated to evaluating and accrediting dance programs and schools across the United States. Founded in 1981, NASD COA plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and integrity of dance education at both undergraduate and graduate levels. It is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and serves as a specialized accrediting agency for institutions offering degrees and credentials in dance and dance-related disciplines.

Historical and Legal Framework

Established in 1981, NASD COA emerged from the need for a dedicated accrediting body for dance programs. The association's formation was a response to the growing recognition of dance as a legitimate academic discipline within higher education. NASD COA operates as a private, non-profit organization and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an institutional accrediting agency. Its legal framework is grounded in the principles of peer review and accountability, aiming to uphold high standards in dance education.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives in Higher Education

NASD COA's mission is to establish national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials in dance and dance-related disciplines. The association provides assistance to institutions and individuals engaged in artistic, scholarly, educational, and other dance-related endeavors. Its objectives include:

• Promoting the quality and integrity of dance education.
• Supporting institutions in meeting accreditation standards.
• Encouraging continuous improvement in dance programs.
• Enhancing public understanding of the value of dance education.

Through these objectives, NASD COA contributes to the advancement of dance as an academic discipline within higher education.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

NASD COA operates under a governance structure that includes a Commission on Accreditation, which consists of a Chair and four delegate members, all elected by the membership at large, and one Public Member. With the exception of the Public Member, each Commission member must have experience as a visiting evaluator. The Commission is designed to be appropriately balanced to represent a variety of backgrounds and perspectives in dance. This structure ensures that NASD COA remains responsive to the needs of its constituents while maintaining its independence as an accrediting body.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

NASD COA's primary role is to serve as a specialized, professional accrediting agency for dance programs. Accreditation is the process whereby NASD COA recognizes an institution as having met certain qualifications or standards. The process focuses on two principal concerns: educational quality and institutional probity. Institutions seeking accreditation undergo a comprehensive review process that includes a self-study, an on-site evaluation, and a review by the Commission on Accreditation. This rigorous process ensures that accredited programs meet high standards and are committed to continuous improvement.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

While NASD COA primarily focuses on accrediting institutions within the United States, it recognizes the importance of international collaboration in the field of dance education. The association is a member of the Association for Specialized and Professional Accreditors (ASPA), which fosters cooperation among specialized accrediting bodies. Through its involvement in ASPA and other networks, NASD COA engages in dialogue with international accrediting agencies to share best practices and stay informed about global trends in dance education.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

NASD COA continues to have a significant impact on higher education by ensuring that dance programs meet high standards of quality and integrity. The association's accreditation process helps institutions maintain academic rigor and provides students with assurance that their education meets recognized standards. Looking forward, NASD COA aims to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education by incorporating new technologies and methodologies into its accreditation processes, ensuring that dance education remains relevant and effective in preparing students for professional careers.

Summary

The National Association of Schools of Dance, Commission on Accreditation, is a vital organization in the landscape of higher education, dedicated to ensuring the quality and integrity of dance education. Through its rigorous accreditation process, NASD COA supports institutions in maintaining high standards and fosters continuous improvement in dance programs. Its commitment to excellence contributes to the advancement of dance as a respected academic discipline.

FAQs

1. What is NASD COA?

   NASD COA is a U.S.-based accrediting body dedicated to evaluating and accrediting dance programs and schools across the United States.

2. When was NASD COA founded?

   NASD COA was founded in 1981.

3. What is the mission of NASD COA?

   The mission of NASD COA is to establish national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials in dance and dance-related disciplines.

4. How does NASD COA ensure quality in dance education?

   NASD COA ensures quality through a comprehensive accreditation process that includes a self-study, an on-site evaluation, and a review by the Commission on Accreditation.

5. Is NASD COA recognized by any government agencies?

   Yes, NASD COA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an institutional accrediting agency.

Organization Name

National Association of Schools of Dance, Commission on Accreditation

Acronym

NASD

Year of Establishment

1/01/1981

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

U.S. Department of Education

Affiliations or Memberships

Association for Specialized and Professional Accreditors (ASPA)

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston
20190 Virginia United States

Phone

+1 (703) 437 0700

Fax

+1 (703) 437 6312

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

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X (Twitter)

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LinkedIn

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YouTube

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Instagram

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Wikipedia Article

Not available

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