National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences
The National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences is an agency that was formed through the merging of two accrediting agencies, originally calling themselves the Cosmetology Accrediting Commission. With origins dating back to 1969, this Virginia based agency is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a valid institutional accrediting agency for postsecondary schools and departments of cosmetology arts and sciences.
NACCAS accreditation presupposes a certain level of academic performance. If the educational institution meets the national requirements in this respect, it receives the corresponding accreditation. The accrediting can be conducted by national, professional and regional agencies. This is a reliable way to secure the integrity of the highest quality of education.
Core Values of the NACCAS
The NACCAS hopes to ensure a level of education to cosmetology students that qualifies them to work in the best salons and resorts, and pass all state licensing examinations. They strive to improve a variety of facets within an institution, including the instructional staff and administrative support, the school curriculum, the financial practices and management, and the student support services.
Accreditation Process
Accreditation by the NACCAS requires adherence to a strict set of standards set forth by the agency in regards to educational quality, programs, and administration. The process involves a variety of steps which are the following:
- Obtaining a valid school license
- Commencing training of students
- Sending a completed application for candidacy status to NACCAS
- Attending NACCAS accreditation workshop
- Preparing preliminary self-study
- Requesting a consultation visit in writing
- Having the consultation visit
- Making revisions to self-study
- Informing NACCAS in writing that institutional self-study is complete and request application for accreditation
- Sending the application for accreditation
The on-site visits can range from one to two days depending on the program size and various requirements. All schools must be operational and licensed to be considered for accreditation. Institutions that obtain accreditation may be reevaluated at least once every few years to ensure that NACCAS standards are being met.
A school can become accredited by any formal action of the Commission. However, accreditation doesn't mean that are schools are viewed equally. It requires that these schools conform to a set of standards outlined by the Commission and that they are re-evaluated once every few years. If the institution fails to maintain the requirements, a period of time is given in order for them to correct their deficiencies. If this is not remedied during the pre-established interval, their accreditation may be withdrawn.
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The National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS)
