< Back to Professional Development
In this section

AfDSP Degree and Course Accreditation 

Information For Universities and Course Providers 

The Alliance for Data Science Professionals (AfDSP) degree and course accreditation scheme recognises university and training provider programmes that meet sector-defined standards in data science education. 

Developed by leading professional bodies, including the Royal Statistical Society (RSS), the scheme ensures that accredited programmes: 

  • deliver high-quality, industry-relevant education 
  • align with professional standards and competencies 
  • prepare graduates for careers in data science and related fields 

Accreditation also provides a clear pathway into professional recognition, supporting graduates toward Data Science Professional (DSP) status. 

The course accreditation is administered by the RSS on behalf of the Alliance for Data Science Professionals.

Why Seek Accreditation?

Accrediting your course demonstrates your commitment to excellence and offers significant benefits. 

Institutional Recognition 

  • Independent validation of quality teaching, learning, and assessment 
  • Permission to use AfDSP accreditation branding 
  • Visibility through AfDSP and partner organisation listings  

Student Value and Employability 

  • A recognised route into professional registration pathways 
  • Enhanced credibility with prospective students and employers 
  • Evidence of strong technical and professional preparation 

Employer Confidence 

  • Assurance that graduates meet expected technical and professional standards 
  • Stronger alignment with workforce needs and industry expectations 
Who Can Apply? 

Applications are welcomed from: 

  • Universities 
  • Higher education institutions 
  • ​Approved training providers 

Eligible programmes include: 

  • Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degrees 
  • Postgraduate (Master’s) degrees 
  • Cognate disciplines (e.g. statistics, computer science) and data-rich programmes 

Programmes should demonstrate clear alignment with data science competencies and learning outcomes.  

List of Accredited Data Science Courses

View the list of currently accredited data science courses. 

Accreditation Standards 

Accredited degrees must demonstrate that graduates achieve a balanced foundation across three core areas: 

4.1 Mathematics and Statistics 

  • Core theoretical understanding underpinning data analysis 
  • Application of statistical and mathematical methods 

4.2 Computing 

  • Practical experience working with data at scale and complexity 
  • Use of appropriate tools, techniques, and computational approaches 

4.3 Ethics, Values and Professional Practice 

  • Understanding of data governance, responsibility, and public good 
  • Ability to apply ethical principles in real-world contexts 
  • Awareness of legal and regulatory frameworks  

Programmes must evidence how these areas are: 

  • integrated across modules 
  • formally assessed 
  • embedded throughout the curriculum 
Evidence Requirements 

To demonstrate compliance with the standards, applicants must provide structured evidence. 

Core Submission Components 

  • Programme and course information 
  • Quality assurance and governance processes 
  • Student outcomes (e.g. pass rates, progression) 
  • Information on resources, staffing, and industry engagement  

Mapping Document  

Applicants must complete and upload a module mapping spreadsheet, showing how: 

  • modules align to AfDSP learning outcomes 
  • the three core areas are covered across the programme 
  • learning outcomes are assessed 

Supporting Evidence 

  • Module descriptors 
  • External quality assurance reports (e.g. QAA) 
  • Student or graduate data 
  • Employer engagement or advisory input 

Providing robust evidence strengthens your application. The AfDSP Degree Accreditation Application Guide provides full details of: 

  • accreditation standards and learning outcomes 
  • required evidence and documentation
  • the module mapping process 
  • step-by-step application instructions 

We recommend reviewing the guide before submitting your Expression of Interest. 

  • Application Process

    The application process follows a structured, staged approach. 

    Step 1 – Create a MyRSS Account 

    Applications are managed via the RSS portal on behalf of the AfDSP. 

    No RSS membership is required to apply. 

    Step 2 – Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) 

    Applicants begin by submitting an Expression of Interest, including: 

    • institution and programme details 
    • number of courses for accreditation 
    • relevant AfDSP partner body 

    You will receive email confirmation once submitted.  

    Step 3 – Complete the Full Application 

    Following your EOI, you will receive a secure link to the full application form. 

    You will be required to: 

    • provide detailed programme information 
    • complete and upload the mapping document 
    • submit supporting evidence 

    Applicants must submit an EOI to access the full application.  

    Step 4 – Assessment and Review 

    Your application will be reviewed by subject experts who will: 

    • assess alignment with learning outcomes and standards 
    • review mapping and supporting documentation 
    • request clarification or additional 

    Please contact us at professionalaffairs@rss.org.uk to find out more, discuss eligibility and next steps.