The British Computer Society (BCS) is the only Chartered Professional Institution for Information Technology (IT). With members in over 100 countries around the world, the BCS is the leading professional and learned Society in the field of computers and information systems.
Formed in 1957, the Society now operates under a Royal Charter granted in 1984.
The BCS is also an Engineering Institution, fully licensed by the Engineering Council to nominate Chartered and Incorporated Engineers and to accredit university courses and training schemes.
The BCS grading structure was changed in 2004. The BCS now has Standard (non-professional) Grades, Professional Grades and also Chartered Professional Status.
Standard Grades are for students of an approved course of study and those taking their first step on the ladder to full professional membership.
Professional Grades are for graduates with a BCS accredited degree and IT practitioners with at least 5 years work experience. Professional members are entitled to use the post-nominal letters MBCS.
Chartered Professional Status reflects the industry "gold" standard and is available exclusively to BCS professional members. Chartered status requires a minimum of 5 years relevant IT experience and a BCS Professional Graduate Diploma (or an equivalent exempting degree).
Chartered Professional Members are entitled to use the post-nominal letters MBCS CITP and the title Chartered IT Professional.
Please visit the British Computer Society web site to learn more about the BCS.