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ACCREDITATION

The Lyme Academy of Fine Arts is:

  • An Accredited Member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
  • A 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational institution under the Internal Revenue Code of the United States
  • A proud partner of institutions of higher education, including the Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD) and New York Academy of Art (NYAA), through formal Pathway Agreements

Non-Degree Postsecondary Certificate Programs

The Lyme Academy of Fine Arts offers a full-time Core Program in Drawing & Painting and a Core Program in Sculpture. These intensive, multi-year studio-based programs lead to a Diploma, conferred upon the successful completion of all curriculum requirements. For details on curriculum requirements see the Student Handbook.

The Diploma issued by Lyme Academy signifies that the student has completed a course of study aligned with NASAD accreditation standards. The credits earned as part of this diploma can be used for admissions processes, depending on the receiving institution’s policies.

How Do Students Use the Certificate?

Students who earn a Diploma from Lyme Academy may use it in the following ways:

  • As part of a degree pathway: Through official agreements with partner institutions like LCAD and NYAA, eligible students may apply to graduate programs (e.g., MFA) without holding a traditional undergraduate degree, provided they have completed the Core Program and meet portfolio and admissions standards.
  • For academic credit: Transfer of coursework from Lyme Academy to other U.S. or international institutions may be possible, subject to the policies of the receiving institution. Students may request official transcripts through the Academy Registrar to support such transfers.
  • For professional development and career advancement: The Diploma demonstrates advanced proficiency in fine arts and supports career opportunities in the arts, education, and creative industries.

International students seeking recognition of their Diploma for equivalency in their home countries should inquire with their national education authorities regarding the procedure for validation of U.S.-based academic credentials.

The Lyme Academy of Fine Arts is an accredited Associate Member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) as of May 2025. NASAD is a specialized accrediting agency for schools of art and design, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

NASAD Contact Information
NASAD
11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21
Reston, Virginia 20190
Phone: (703) 437-0700
www.nasad.arts-accredit.org

For more details about the Lyme Academy’s accreditation status with NASAD, visit NASAD’s directory of accredited institutions. If you would like to express a concern about a member institution, link here.

Date of Initial Accreditation: 05/19/2025
Next Full Comprehensive Review: 2029-30

Program Listing

  • Diploma – 2 Years: Core Drawing and Painting
  • Diploma – 3 Years: Core Sculpture