Recognised and Accredited Courses

Degrees in chemistry and other chemical sciences may be approved by the RSC at one of two levels - they can be accredited or recognised.

Accreditation

The RSC accredits chemistry courses which are of a high standard in terms of intellectual challenge and content. These are usually integrated Masters degree courses (e.g. MChem, MSci).  The accreditation process requires universities to formally submit details of their courses, which are then reviewed by us.  Accredited courses satisfy the academic requirements for the award of Chartered Chemist (CChem).

Graduates who are awarded an RSC accredited degree and are RSC members are automatically eligible to apply for CChem once they have gained several years of chemistry related work experience. 

Achieving chartered status in any profession indicates to the wider community a high level of subject specific knowledge and professional competence. 

The RSC is also licensed by The Science Council for registration of Chartered Scientists (CSci).  RSC-accredited degrees also satisfy the Scientific Knowledge requirement for CSci.

Recognition

The RSC recognises a wide range of degrees based on chemical science for satisfying the admission requirements for qualified membership of the RSC.  Associate Member (AMRSC) is the normal entry category for graduates .

Recognition does not require a formal submission by universities. Bachelors honours degrees that contain more than 50% chemical science satisfy the recognition criteria for AMRSC. 

Graduates who are awarded a degree that is recognised (rather than accredited) are not automatically eligible to apply for CChem.  However, they can still become a Chartered Chemist by demonstrating an enhancement of their chemistry knowledge beyond degree level through further qualifications and/or professional experience.