Professional Policing BSc (Hons), sandwich with work placement

Following the National Police Curriculum as set out by the College of Policing, this BSc (Hons) Professional Policing degree prepares you for the emotional, physical and mental demands of a rewarding career in policing and related fields.

Use simulated facilities that replicate situations you’ll face in your job, gain insights from teaching staff with law enforcement experience, and get experience with local police forces.

You'll also gain legislative, policy and procedural knowledge and develop the critical thinking, communication, decision making and conflict management skills you need.

You'll graduate with the core knowledge required of a probationary police constable, which provides you with an entry route into policing in England and Wales, the foundations to pursue other careers in law enforcement and criminal justice, or to continue your studies at postgraduate level.

A career in policing is an exciting, rewarding way to serve your local community and make a positive impact on society.

Working as a police constable

This policing degree is an approved entry route into the police services in England and Wales, so you'll be eligible to apply for police constable roles for up to five years after you graduate (you won’t need to do a graduate conversion programme). This allows you to work in neighbourhood and response policing.

With experience, you can rise in the ranks to roles such as:

• sergeant
• inspector
• superintendent
• chief constable

Thanks to our partnership with Thames Valley Police, students who apply successfully to join the Thames Valley force will receive a £2,000 bursary on graduation.

Working in other police force units

After a two-year probationary period as a police constable, you can apply to work in specialist areas such as:

• criminal investigation department (CID)
• firearms
• traffic
• intelligence
• child protection
• fraud squad
• drug squad

This course also gives you the knowledge and skills for roles in security organisations such as the National Crime Agency.

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Placement year (optional)

Working in a police force

After your second or third year, you can do a work placement year with a UK police force to get valuable longer-term work experience in policing and law enforcement.

We'll help you secure a work or study placement or that fits your aspirations. You’ll get mentoring and support throughout the year.

You could also choose to set up your own business.

Studying abroad

You'll also have the opportunity to spend a year studying abroad, in locations such as Canada and South Korea.

Volunteering opportunities

Through our ties to Hampshire Constabulary, you'll have the opportunity to take on a position such as a Special Constable or another police volunteer role. 

These positions include police training in areas such as officer safety, police first aid and the police IT and communication systems. 

As with all similar roles, successful application is still dependent on vetting and medical checks.

Ongoing careers support

Get experience while you study, with support to find part-time jobs, volunteering opportunities, and work experience.

Towards the end of your degree and for up to five years after graduation, you’ll receive one-to-one support from our Careers and Employability Service to help you find your perfect role.