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Forms of classification used by UCAS
Courses within the UCAS scheme are assigned a course code which is unique to an institution during the cycle of the course. The UCAS course code currently consists of a 4 character reference which can be any combination of letters and numbers.
Each course is also assigned up to three JACS (Joint Academic Coding System) codes in order to classify the course for *J purposes. The JACS system was introduced for 2002 entry, and replaced UCAS Standard Classification of Academic Subjects (SCAS). Each JACS code consists of a single letter followed by 3 numbers. JACS is divided into subject areas, with a related initial letter for each.
The JACS system is used by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), and is the result of a joint UCAS-HESA subject code harmonization project.
JACS is also used by UK institutions to identify the subject matter of programmes and modules. These institutions include the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS), the Home Office and the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).
JACS 3
JACS3 consultation and report.
Joint statement on the JACS3 review
Joint UCAS and HESA statement about the JACS3 updates.
JACS coding system
An explanation of the JACS coding system and how codes are formed.
Course coding principles
The principles behind the allocation of UCAS course codes and JACS codes.