The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) has approved revised eligibility criteria for industry professionals applying for Chartered Colourist (CCol) status.
The changes were approved following a vote by the Society’s Board and members at its Annual General Meeting held on 13 May. The revised regulations simplify the route to Chartered Colourist status by removing the requirement for applicants to first obtain the Associate of the Society of Dyers and Colourists (ASDC) qualification through the exemption route.
Under the previous regulations, professionals without an ASDC qualification were required to apply for ASDC by Exemption before progressing to Chartered Colourist status. Under the updated criteria, applicants who can demonstrate knowledge and ability equivalent to a Level 6 qualification, along with the required professional experience, can apply directly for Chartered Colourist status.
The revised eligibility criteria also remove the previous requirement to complete four years of experience before obtaining ASDC by Exemption.
Applicants for Chartered Colourist status must now demonstrate that they are current members of the Society of Dyers and Colourists and hold an equivalent Level 6 qualification. They must also normally have established themselves in an appropriate occupation in colour science or technology for a minimum of two years.
In addition, applicants must submit an application supported by two professionally related referees, at least one of whom must be an SDC member. Applicants must also satisfy the Society’s Board that they meet the requirements for Chartered Colourist status.
The ASDC qualification remains part of the SDC’s professional qualifications framework and continues to be available through the examination-based route.
Dr Graham Clayton, CEO of the SDC, said the Society remains the only professional body in the world licensed to award Chartered Colourist status. He added that the CCol designation continues to represent professional competence, knowledge and commitment in colour science and technology.
According to the SDC, the changes are intended to provide a clearer and more accessible route to professional recognition while maintaining the standards expected of Chartered Colourists.
Professionals interested in applying for Chartered Colourist status have been encouraged to review the updated eligibility criteria and contact the Society for further guidance.
