The Art Institute of Dallas began in 1964 as the Dallas FashionMerchandising College. In 1978, it became the Fashion and Art Institute of Dallas, and expanded its programs in Fashion Merchandising and Interior Design, and added a Commercial Art program. In 1979, The Art Institute was approved to grant an associate of applied arts degree in each of its programs. In October, 1984, The Art Institute became a member of The Design Schools. Continuing with the same student body, faculty, and curriculum, the school then changed its name to The Art Institute of Dallas. In September, 1988, the school moved to the present facilities at 8080 Park Lane in North Dallas. The Art Institute of Dallas was granted initialmembership at Level I granting associate’s degrees with the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools effective January 1, 1998. In June 2000 the Commission awarded membership at Level II granting bachelor’s degrees.