NASM
The National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) is an association of approximately 644 schools of music, primarily at the collegiate level, but also including postsecondary non-degree-granting schools of music.
It is the national accrediting agency for music and music-related disciplines. The Association also provides information to the public. It produces statistical research, provides professional development for leaders of music schools, and engages in policy analysis.
Music is a profession requiring talent, knowledge, skill, and dedication. Employment depends almost entirely on demonstrated competence. Success is based primarily on work rather than on credentials. Experience tells us that music, though dependent on talent, inspiration, and creativity, requires much more to function as a significant spiritual and educational force. Talent without skills, inspiration without knowledge, and creativity without technique can account for little but lost potential.
The primary purpose of schools of music is to help individual students turn talent, inspiration, creativity, and dedication into significant potential for service to the development of musical culture in its multiple dimensions. Therefore, the focus of NASM's work is on issues of musical content and educational substance as applied to the preparation of music professionals.
The music education programs at UTRGV are accredited by NASM.