Professional Policing BSc (Hons)

University of Salford

In a Nutshell

This course is a comprehensive preparation for a career in policing.

The programme will help you develop an in-depth understanding of the role of a police officer. Alongside the development of operational and practical skills, you will critically examine the Criminal Justice System.

Throughout, you will have the chance to apply theory to practice with case studies and research projects. Simulation exercises based on policing scenarios which allow students to develop key interpersonal skills are a key part of the programme. In year 3 students will undertake a community placement.

There are a range of assessments that will allow students to demonstrate their use of key skills such as researching information, presentation and academic writing skills. Assessments such as policy briefings are linked to the sort of real-world task that an officer would undertake.

Although studying this course does not guarantee entry to the police service, it is a recognised entry route to police constable and provides graduates with the skills to progress a career in policing or other areas linked to the criminal justice system.

You will:

• Learn the essential knowledge, skills and professional approaches that are required in modern policing
• Critically explore the role of the police
• Explore the complex and diverse nature of modern communities
• Develop critical thinking and research skills

This course is for you if...

• You are interested in a career in policing
• You are interested in a career in other areas of the Criminal Justice System or related professions
• You are interested in crime and wider social issues
• You have a critical mind
• You are a problem solver and able to think fast on your feet
• You have a strong desire to help other people

All about the course

The recruitment process for police officers has changed significantly. From 2020, to be confirmed in post as a police constable, officers will require a professional educational qualification from a course of study validated by the College of Policing. One recognised pathway into the police service will be the completion of this pre-join degree in Professional Policing.

This course is a qualification designed and validated by the College of Policing* to meet the new requirements and seeks to address the critical questions and issues that the modern police officer will face.

You will study six modules per year in areas such as; investigation management, response policing, policing communities, criminology and criminological research methods. Specific subject areas include cyber-crime, counter terrorism, investigation of serious crime, dealing with vulnerability and safe-guarding victims and criminological theories of crime and society. The course is underpinned with modules and support on academic skills, research methods and professional development, culminating in an evidenced based project (dissertation) on a contemporary policing issue of your choice.

This programme offers unique opportunities to experience inter-professional learning, simulation exercises and community engagement. You will be able to share learning experiences with students from other courses such as Nursing, Social Work and Criminology, including shared modules and practice exercises. This will enhance your learning and prepare you for working in practice with other linked professions.

You will have the opportunity to do work placements and will be able to take advantage of our strong links with various organisations across Greater Manchester. We also encourage you to join the Special Constabulary of Greater Manchester Police if you wish to.

The programme team includes former police officers with many years of professional knowledge and experience in a wide variety of policing disciplines as well as leading academics from criminology, sociology, social policy and social work.

*confirmation expected at the end of 2020

Licensed by the College of Policing for the purpose of meeting all the requirements of the national curriculum for multiple entry routes into policing.

Licensed by the College of Policing for the purpose of meeting all the requirements of the national curriculum for multiple entry routes into policing.