The partnership between the RACI and higher education institutions aims to ensure that chemical science programs maintain professional and high-quality standards. The goal is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become practicing chemists.

The initial step for a university seeking accreditation for its chemistry program is to fill out the Pre-Accreditation Nomination Form, which initiates the accreditation process.

After the nomination process, the university proceeds to Step 2, which involves invoicing and confirming the date of the site visit along with the panel of assessors. This step includes nominating suitable periods for the panel to visit the campus.

Pre-accreditation surveys are designed to collect essential information about the courses in the university's degree programs. These surveys help assessors gather data necessary for evaluating the program's compliance with accreditation standards.

During the site visit phase, which typically lasts approximately three days, the assessors meet with key stakeholders such as the Head of School, department coordinators, academic staff, and students. They also review assessment tasks and examples of marked student work.

After the site visit, the assessors provide preliminary feedback, and the panel chair compiles a comprehensive report. This report outlines the findings and recommendations regarding the accreditation status of the chemistry program.

Following the completion of the accreditation visit, the Accreditation Committee reviews the report and provides a recommendation to the RACI Board. The RACI Board reviews the recommendations outlined in the report to determine eligibility for accreditation. Once a decision is reached, the higher education institution is promptly notified. If accreditation is granted, the institution receives a final certification document from the RACI, formalising their accreditation status.

Accreditation for a chemistry program typically lasts for a period of 3 to 5 years, depending on the advice of the panel of assessors. This duration is determined based on the board's evaluation of the program's compliance with accreditation standards and its overall quality.