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RSS Degree Programme Accreditation

RSS Programme Accreditation 

RSS programme accreditation recognises degree programmes that deliver the breadth and depth of knowledge required for entry into professional statistical practice. 

What can be accredited? 

We accredit a wide range of programmes including: 

  • BSc, MSci and MSc in Statistics 
  • Joint degrees (e.g. Mathematics and Statistics, MORSE) 
  • Applied or interdisciplinary data science programmes 
  • Taught postgraduate qualifications (MSc, MRes, PGDip)  

Accreditation awarded may be: 

  • Unconditional – all graduates qualify 
  • Conditional – dependent on module choices 

Many universities worldwide accredit their programme with the RSS. 

Professional standards 

Accredited programmes must demonstrate that graduates have the following: 

Knowledge 

  • Frequentist and Bayesian statistical methods for conducting data analyses 
  • Logical foundations including relevant probability theory  
  • Principles of data collection, management and curation  

Skills 

  • Model development, evaluation and refinement to describe and understand a wide variety of processes or problems 
  • Drawing and communicating appropriate statistical inference 
  • Use of statistical software and programming 

Professional behaviours 

  • Ethical practice and data responsibility 
  • Awareness of the implications of their work for the rights of individuals  
  • Programmes are reviewed holistically, including curriculum coherence, assessment and student outcomes.  

Programme structure requirement 

Typically, accredited degrees: 

  • Include ~120 credits of Quality Mark-aligned modules 
  • Demonstrate coherent progression across learning outcomes  
Benefits of accreditation 
  • Direct route for graduates to GradStat
  • Enhanced programme visibility and RSS listing 
  • Use of RSS accreditation branding 
  • Stronger employer recognition and student outcomes  
Application process 
  1. Expression of Interest – complete webform and eligibility discussion, if requested. 
  2. Application submission – mapping to RSS standards 
  3. Panel review – academic and professional assessors 
  4. Outcome and feedback - Typically completed within ~4 months 

More detailed information is available in our accreditation guide. 

Duration and review 
  • Accreditation normally awarded for up to 5 years 
  • Renewal required to maintain status  
Fees 
  • Application fee (includes Year 1) 
  • Annual fee for remaining accreditation period 
  • Tiered depending on number of programmes  

The fees are outlined in the accreditation guide.  

Further application guidance and support is available (link page 4) 

Start your application 

Please complete the expression of interest form to gain access to application information. 

You may be required to register for a MyRSS account to complete the application form.  Please follow the on-screen instructions. 

For more information: professionalaffairs@rss.org.uk