AboutHISTORY
The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts was founded in 2018 by industry creatives with the goal of creating a space that was equal parts training and opportunity. The Conservatory is comprised of a faculty of the greatest artists currently working in theatre and television. Located in Norwalk, Connecticut, our campus is in the backyard of the biggest theatre city in the world. The conservatory built The LINK Program which developed into the full conservatory that comprises NoCo today. With many alumni working on Broadway and on Television, a faculty of the most pivotal artists, close proximity to New York City, small class sizes, and a curriculum built for today’s industry, The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts is Connecticut’s premiere training program for young artists.
MISSION
The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts’ mission is to provide exemplary arts education to aspiring artists and students, positively impact the local community of arts, and create connections within the music, theatre, and television/film worlds.
Comprehensive Industry Preparation
The Conservatory ensures graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in musical theatre, television, and film. Through a curriculum designed for today's industry demands and taught by our distinguished faculty, students will demonstrate proficiency in their craft, fostering a seamless transition into the professional world.
Professional Networking and Connections
The Conservatory facilitates the development of extensive professional networks for our students within the entertainment industry. Through mentorship programs, industry events, and connections with our accomplished faculty, students will have opportunities to build relationships with professionals in musical theatre, television, and film, providing a strong foundation for their careers.
Demonstrable Impact on the Arts Community
The Conservatory empowers graduates to make meaningful contributions to the local arts community. By instilling a sense of responsibility and positive influence, our programs aim to produce artists who not only excel in their individual disciplines but also actively contribute to and uplift the cultural and artistic landscape of Norwalk and beyond.
AdministrationBoard of TrusteesOrganizational ChartOrientation
August 19–22
Fall Start
August 24
Fall Midterms
October 12–16
Fall Classes End
December 3
Reading Day
December 4
Fall Final Exams
December 7–11
Spring Start
January 11
Spring Midterms
March 8–12
Spring Break
March 15–19
Spring Classes End
April 22
Reading Day
April 23
Spring Final Exams
April 26–30
Labor Day
September 7
Veterans Day
November 11
Thanksgiving
November 23–27
Winter Break
December 12 – January 10
MLK Day
January 18
Presidents Day
February 15
Academic Resources
Course Catalog • Student Handbook • Program Sheets
Course Catalog
Course descriptions and codes for all current NOCO courses.
Student Handbook
Community standards, student life policies, procedures, and campus resources.
Program Sheets
Musical Theatre
Semester-by-semester curriculum map and credit requirements.
Musical Theatre Dance
Semester-by-semester curriculum map and credit requirements.
Acting for Stage and Screen
Semester-by-semester curriculum map and credit requirements.
Commercial Dance
Semester-by-semester curriculum map and credit requirements.
Accreditation & Degree Authorization
State Authorization
The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts is authorized by the Connecticut Office of Higher Education to confer both Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees. The institution currently offers approved two-year Associate degree programs and accelerated three-year Bachelor of Fine Arts programs designed to prepare students for professional careers in the performing arts.
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts is pursuing regional accreditation through the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). On April 23, 2026, NECHE determined that the institution is eligible to proceed with an application for candidacy.
“The New England Commission of Higher Education has determined that The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts is eligible to proceed with an application for candidacy for accreditation within two years. A determination of eligibility is not candidacy or accreditation, nor does it indicate a likelihood of eventual accreditation. Questions about eligibility and the accreditation process should be directed to the President of the Commission.” - NECHE 2026