The PEQF (Policing Education Qualifications Framework) is a new, professional framework for the training of police officers and staff. As of 1st January 2020 successful appointment as a police officer in any one of the 43 Police Forces in England and Wales will be dependent upon the completion of a professional educational qualification. The College of Policing, as the professional body of the police service, have developed three new entry routes into the police service. One of these routes is by completion of a Pre-Join degree, whereby students will study a three year degree in professional policing which will equip them to deal with the exciting challenges modern policing has to offer.

The BA(Hons) Professional Policing programme has been designed, primarily, to meet the learning needs of students who wish to embark on a career in the police service (police and police staff) but will also be useful for those wishing to work in other related areas, for example National Crime Agency, probation service, military police, private security industry, civil service, local authority, banking and similar organisations where investigative or practical legal knowledge are required.

As well as subject specific skills students will have the opportunity to develop key transferable skills that are highly valued by employers in the graduate job market, including the ability to present and develop a cohesive argument, IT skills, research and problem-solving skills, communication skills and working as part of a team.

Potential Career Paths

Many students who undertake this degree will be aiming to join the police service as a Police Constable but it is important to emphasize to applicants and students that completion of this degree does not guarantee employment as a police officer or police staff.

Every police service in England and Wales sets its own recruitment process and selection policy and entry requirements vary from service to service. Candidates are advised to check their eligibility against the police service website, this may assist you in deciding whether to undertake the BA (Hons) Professional Policing course and/or pursue a career in policing.

However the BA (Hons) Professional Policing course does not limit graduates to a career with the police service. Other careers could include working in the National Crime Agency, probation service, military police, private security industry, civil service, local authority, banking and similar organisations where investigative or practical legal knowledge are required.