Huntington earns continued membership in NASM
FOR RELEASE: Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Huntington, Ind.-At its June meetings, the Commission on Accreditation for the National Association of Schools of Music voted to grant continued membership to the Huntington University Department of Music. Huntington University has been a member of NASM since the summer of 2000.
Three degree programs offered by the university were approved including the Bachelor of Arts in music as well as the Bachelor of Music degrees in music education and performance.
"NASM is not a rubber-stamp accreditation organization to which institutions can simply pay the annual dues and are automatically considered members," said Dr. George W. Killian, Jr., chair of the Department of Music. "On the contrary, the accreditation requirements for all member institutions are quite demanding and rigorous."
Institutional membership through the NASM requires that a college or university demonstrate to peer reviewers that it meets basic standards established by the NASM. The application process also entails an in-depth self-study in which the institution seeks to understand and evaluate its current programs and future potential. Next, a team of consultants reviews the self-study and conducts an on-site evaluation of the music program. Finally, the reports are submitted, and the Commission on Accreditation votes.
"NASM's membership action to include the Music Department of Huntington University is a 'national seal of approval' that indicates that our curriculum as well as our entire music educational experience is on par with any other accredited member within the United States," Killian said. "All students who complete a music major at Huntington University can be assured that they will be equipped with the essential set of skills and education to be successful in their future music employment."
NASM, founded in 1924, is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges and universities. It has approximately 610 accredited institutional members. NASM establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials.
For more information about the NASM or the membership process, visit http://nasm.arts-accredit.org/.
