COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) Policing and Investigations curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of policing, criminal investigations, criminology, and the criminal justice system while developing practical investigative and research skills. In the first year, students build strong academic foundations through modules in study skills and criminological research, the criminal justice system, introduction to policing and investigations, contemporary policing issues, criminology and crime prevention, and introduction to policing. The Study Skills and Criminological Research module helps students adapt to higher education by developing independent learning, academic research, reflective practice, critical thinking, time management, and professional skills that support both university study and future employment. Students also gain an understanding of policing structures, criminal justice processes, crime prevention strategies, and the social and legal context of criminal investigations. In the second year, the course becomes more practical with modules including Real World Criminology, Investigation and Loss Prevention, Introduction to Investigative Interviewing, Themes in Forensic Psychology, Victimology, and Criminal Investigation. Students complete an applied criminology research project, often involving fieldwork or work placements, where they analyse real-world criminal justice issues, conduct research, evaluate evidence, and develop resilience and employability skills. Additional modules strengthen knowledge of investigative interviewing, forensic psychology, victim support, crime prevention, and investigative procedures. In the final year, students advance their professional investigative expertise through the core Investigating Crime module, which focuses on reactive investigations, major crime enquiries, investigative strategy, policy management, leadership, and the responsibilities of Senior Investigating Officers using professional guidance such as the Major Crime Investigation Manual 2021. Students also study Advanced Investigative Interviewing and can specialise through optional modules including Cybercrime, Crime Scene Investigation for Policing, Serious and Organised Crime, Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Exploitation, Forensic Perspectives, Psychopathy, Youth Justice, Policing Mental Health, Vulnerability and Risk, Public Protection, Reflective Work Experience, and Substance Misuse. Overall, the programme develops advanced analytical, investigative, interviewing, research, communication, and problem-solving skills, preparing graduates for careers in policing, criminal investigation, intelligence, forensic support, public protection, law enforcement, security, and the wider criminal justice sector.