Policing BA/BSc

A Policing degree provides the knowledge, skills and professional training needed for a career in law enforcement. It combines academic study with practical policing skills, preparing you for roles in the police service, security, investigation and community safety. This degree is well suited to students who are disciplined, resilient and motivated to serve the public.

BA or BSC?

Both BA and BSc degrees in policing can lead to a career in law enforcement, but they have different focuses: a BA (Hons) in Professional Policing is more common and often emphasizes legal and social science aspects, while a BSc (Hons) can be more specialized, such as a BSc (Hons) Policing, Psychology and Investigations which may incorporate scientific and investigative elements. The choice depends on the desired career path and whether a more theoretical or science-based degree is preferred.

Course Structure

Most Policing degrees last three years full time, with some universities offering accelerated two-year routes or part-time study. Many are designed in partnership with police forces and follow the College of Policing’s Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) or Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) standards, ensuring graduates meet professional entry requirements.

Teaching includes lectures, seminars, workshops, scenario-based training, role play, simulated crime scenes and community placements. Assessments typically include essays, reflective journals, reports, presentations, exams and portfolio work.

Typical Modules

Year 1 – Foundations of Policing

Introduction to Policing and the Criminal Justice System

Criminology and Criminal Behaviour

Police Powers, Ethics and Professional Standards

Communication Skills and Community Engagement

Law and Policy in Policing

Practical Scenarios and Simulations

Year 2 – Core Development

Operational Policing and Investigation

Public Protection and Safeguarding

Policing Communities and Partnership Working

Counter-Terrorism and Serious Organised Crime

Evidence Gathering, Forensics and Intelligence

Work-Based Learning or Placement with a Police Service

Year 3 – Advanced Practice and Leadership

Leadership and Decision-Making in Policing

Policing Diversity and Human Rights

Cybercrime and Digital Policing

Applied Research Methods in Policing

Dissertation or Policing Research Project

Extended Professional Placement or Applied Policing Project

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but useful subjects include:

• A levels: Criminology, Law, Psychology, Sociology or Politics.

  
  

• BTECs: Public Services, Applied Law, Applied Science or Health and Social Care are widely accepted.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Social Sciences or related fields are often preferred.

  
  

• Physical fitness and strong communication skills are just as important as academic achievement.

What Makes a Strong Application

Policing courses are competitive, so a strong application should include:

• Relevant experience, such as volunteering with the police cadets, community safety initiatives, youth work or first aid services.

  
  

• A personal statement showing motivation for policing, resilience, integrity and commitment to public service.

  
  

• Evidence of teamwork and leadership, for example in sports, Scouts/Guides or part-time jobs.

  
  

• Good academic performance in relevant subjects.

  
  

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Policing degree provides both professional and transferable skills, including:

• Decision-making and problem-solving – responding quickly and effectively to incidents.

  
  

• Communication and empathy – working with victims, witnesses and communities.

  
  

• Leadership and teamwork – managing operations and working with colleagues.

  
  

• Critical thinking – applying the law and analysing complex cases.

  
  

• Investigation and research – gathering evidence and intelligence.

  
  

• Resilience and adaptability – coping with high-pressure and unpredictable situations.

  
  

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Policing Students

Here are four accessible books to inspire and prepare you:

“Policing: A Very Short Introduction” by Lorie Charlesworth – A concise overview of the role of policing in society.

“The Secret Barrister” by The Secret Barrister – Offers insight into the wider justice system that police officers are part of.

“Black and Blue” by Steve Clifford – A candid memoir of life in the police force.

“Policing: Politics, Culture and Control” by Tim Newburn – Explores the realities and challenges of modern policing.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Police constables in the UK typically start on salaries of around £28,000–£31,000, rising to £40,000+ with experience. Sergeants earn around £43,000–£46,000, and inspectors can earn £50,000–£60,000+. Specialist roles in counter-terrorism, cybercrime or intelligence may offer higher salaries and faster progression.