Anoka-Ramsey Community College Music Department recently received much sought-after full accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) for its associate in fine arts in Music degree program.

This distinction attests to the high-standards of Anoka-Ramsey Music programming, having met the criteria for academic strength and operational integrity. In some cases, accreditation also assists in the transfer of credits from one institution to another.

“Accreditation means our Music program meets the same rigorous national standards as prestigious Minnesota institutions such as the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, St. Olaf College, St. Thomas University, Northwestern University, Concordia College in Moorhead and more,” says Music Faculty member, Melissa Bergstrom who spearheaded the accreditation process. “Credits earned through our degree program are now nationally recognized as on par with these institutions as well as schools across the country.”

“The accreditation is terrific news for students and the community Anoka-Ramsey serves,” says Dana Irgens, the college Dean of Arts and Letters. “I am so proud of our Music Faculty and students. Everyone works diligently every day to provide the best education for our Music students, while also giving many other non-music major students an opportunity to appreciate music and learn from the highest-quality of musicians imaginable. This national accreditation acknowledges their dedication and the quality of Music education they provide.”

An associate in fine arts (AFA) degree in Music from Anoka-Ramsey helps students prepare for a career in music and related fields. To do this, the degree offers a two-year music theory sequence, a yearlong music history sequence, private lessons instruction, and small and large ensemble performance opportunities. After completing the AFA in Music, students may pursue a career in music or may transfer into a four-year program as a junior status student. Upon completion of the AFA degree program, students can go on to complete bachelor's degrees in music performance, music education, music business, or music therapy.  

From 2000 to 2010, Anoka-Ramsey Music programming experienced a 198.1% increase in students, including both students who major in Music and those who take music as an elective course for their program of study.

More about National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)

NASM, founded in 1924, is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges and universities with approximately 641 accredited institutional members. It establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials.

For more information, visit http://nasm.arts-accredit.org/.

To learn more about the Music-related education options at Anoka-Ramsey Community College, including an associate in fine arts in Music, or a complete listing of accredited programming, visit call 763-433-1200 or visit www.AnokaRamsey.edu.

The recent full accreditation of the associate in fine arts in Music degree program at Anoka-Ramsey Community College attests to the high-standard of music programming at the college, resulting in well-trained musicians including the guitar ensemble (shown here).