National Association of Schools of Art and Design

The NASAD was founded in 1948 as the National Association of Schools of Design. In 1966 the name was changed to National Association of Schools of Art, and in 1981 the name was changed to National Association of Schools of Art and Design. This organization is the sole agency that provides accreditation for the entire field of art and design. The UT Art Department (now School of Art) was first accredited in 1984. The MFA, the BA in art history, BFA in graphic design, and the BA and BFA in studio art are accredited.