COURSE CURRICULUM

The Professional Policing BA (Hons) is a vocational course aligned with the College of Policing’s Policing Education Qualification Framework (PEQF), recognised across England and Wales as a pre-join pathway into the police service. This degree equips students with the academic knowledge, practical skills, and professional insight required for modern policing, although entry into a police force is not guaranteed and remains subject to individual force requirements.In year one, students are introduced to the fundamental duties and expectations of a police constable. Modules include Introduction to Professional Policing and the Criminal Justice System, Introduction to Evidence-based Policing, Policing Responsibilities, and Understanding Policing Practice. These cover the structure of the justice system, diversity, ethics, crime prevention, and the core areas of policing such as response, roads, community, investigations, and intelligence. Completion of this year leads to an HNC in Policing Practice.Year two builds on this foundation with more complex themes. Modules include Intermediate Professional Policing and the Criminal Justice System, Intermediate Evidence-based Policing, Principles of Modern Policing, and Aspects of Policing Practice. Students explore advanced topics including radicalisation, critical incident response, public protection, and digital policing. Those completing year two are awarded an HND in Policing Practice.In the final year, students further develop critical thinking, leadership, and research skills. Modules include Professional, Leadership and Problem-Solving Skills in Policing, Community Policing Priorities, Independent Research Project on Policing, and Specialist Research on Policing. Students investigate current affairs, develop strategic insights into community priorities, and complete two substantial research projects focused on chosen areas of professional policing practice.Delivered by experienced former officers, this course provides the academic and practical framework to pursue a career as a police constable or through direct entry pathways such as detective roles, preparing graduates to meet the evolving demands of 21st-century policing.