Subject Benchmark Statements describe the nature of study and the academic standards expected of graduates in specific subject areas. They show what graduates might reasonably be expected to know, do and understand at the end of their studies.
Subject Benchmark Statements are written by subject specialists and we facilitate this process. They are used as reference points in the design, delivery and review of academic programmes. They provide general guidance but are not intended to represent a national curriculum or to prescribe set approaches. Instead, they allow for flexibility and innovation.
Subject Benchmark Statements are available for bachelor's degrees with honours and master's degrees. The full list of Subject Benchmark Statements available on our website can be found here. To find a particular Subject Benchmark Statement, use the search box below.
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28 new and revised statements published
We are currently in the process of updating Subject Benchmark Statements. 28 revised Statements have been published since 2022. These are the first to incorporate consideration of how practice within disciplines addresses the wider social goals of equality, diversity and inclusivity; Education for Sustainable Development; requirements of disabled students; and enterprise and entrepreneurship. Statements published in 2025 onwards will be the first to address Generative Artificial Intelligence as a cross-cutting theme.
March 2022
- Archaeology
- Architectural Technology
- Chemistry
- Classics and Ancient History (including Byzantine Studies and Modern Greek)
- Computing
- Counselling and Psychotherapy
- Criminology
- Early Childhood Studies
- Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Environmental Studies
- Forensic Science
- Geography
- History
- Housing Studies
- Policing
- Theology and Religious Studies
March 2024
- Agriculture, Rural Environmental Sciences, Animal Studies, Consumer Science, Forestry, Food, Horticulture and Human Nutrition
- Anthropology
- Area Studies
- Communication, Media, Film and Cultural Studies
- Creative Writing
- Dance, Drama and Performance
- Health Studies
- Land, Construction, Real Estate and Surveying
- Landscape Architecture
- Optometry
- Osteopathy
- Town and Country Planning
- Veterinary Nursing
April 2025
We will publish 8 Subject Benchmark Statements in April 2025. We have appointed Chairs, Deputy Chairs and Advisory Groups.
- Accounting
- Education Studies
- Finance
- Librarianship, Information, Knowledge, Records and Archive Management
- Philosophy
- Physics, Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Music
- Public Policy and Public Administration
2025-26
We will review 6 Subject Benchmark Statements in 2025-26. We have now appointed Chairs and Deputy Chairs to lead these reviews.
- Architecture
- Art & Design
- History of Art, Architecture & Design
- Social Policy
- Sociology
- Social Work