COURSE CURRICULUM

The Professional Policing BA at the University of Northampton is a three-year program designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of policing, criminal justice, and investigative practice. In the first year, students build a foundation in key areas such as legislation for policing and investigators, equality and diversity in criminal justice, and the theory and practice of professional policing, alongside professional development, academic methods and research, crime and criminality, and practical skills in crime scene management and evidence recovery. The second year focuses on advancing investigative knowledge and professional competence through modules on crime and criminal investigation, road policing law, community policing, enhanced professional development, investigating serious and organised crime, global policing politics, research skills for investigation, and open source intelligence. These modules integrate practical skills with analytical and theoretical understanding, preparing students for complex policing environments. In the final year, students engage with specialized areas including cyber crime, evidence-based policing, vulnerability and public protection, and miscarriages of justice. The course culminates in an independent study project, allowing students to apply their learning in a focused research or practical investigation. Throughout the program, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional skills, equipping them for careers in policing, security, and related fields while ensuring their qualifications are recognized by forces across the East Midlands and beyond.