Professional Policing HNC/HND/BA (Hons)

Undergraduate

A Policing student talking to a police officer beside a police van

This pre-join policing degree course is designed as an entry route into the police force, preparing new recruits to meet the demands of 21st-century policing.

Year of entry

2026-27

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years sandwich (study abroad or work placement)
3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC

Course code

PP10 / PP12 / PP11

Start date

September 2026
November 2026
January 2027
March 2027
May 2027
July 2027

How to apply

Book an Open Event

Download a prospectus

Course overview

This course explores the main challenges facing police officers today, such as protecting the vulnerable, digital policing and counterterrorism.

This course introduces you to the role of a Police Constable and the five core areas of professional policing practice:

Response policing
Policing communities
Policing the roads
Information and intelligence
Conducting investigations.

In your final year, you will complete your own research project in a policing practice area of your choice.

This vocational degree meets the standards set by the College of Policing in relation to the Police Constable Entry Routes (PCER) for pre-join degrees. Police forces across England and Wales use these as part of the categorised modes of entry into the policing profession.

The pre-join route allows you to study for a degree and then apply to a force and follow a shorter on-the-job training programme to become a police constable or a special constable.

Why you should study this course

Policing is a career that involves public service, problem-solving and working closely with communities. This course is designed to prepare you academically and professionally for pre-join routes into policing, giving you insights into real-world policing challenges while also building transferable skills for a range of roles in criminal justice and public service.
Since 2020, the recruitment process for police constable applicants has been open to those with an approved pre-join policing degree. This degree provides the academic knowledge that aligns with the learning standards set by the College of Policing.
Learn about both established and emerging policing practices, including case studies and crime trends.
Guest speakers from policing and related professions are invited to share their first-hand experiences and personal perspectives. Each year, several professional guests visit the course.²
Local officers may attend some sessions to provide feedback to students who are engaging in simulated policing scenarios as part of their coursework.
You will have the opportunity to learn how to use standard policing equipment, such as handcuffs, body-worn video and police radios.⁴

Accreditation and professional recognition

College of Policing

This course is licensed by the College of Policing (the College) for the 2026/27 intake.¹

This pre-join degree is a professional, academic, knowledge-based degree aligned with the national curriculum for the police constable (PC) role and offered by providers licensed by the College. Successful completion of the degree allows you to apply to join the police service but does not guarantee recruitment as a PC.

A successful recruit to the police service through this route will be subject to a two-year probationary period post-join, as specified in Police Regulations. For more information, visit the College of Policing website. Recruitment requirements, eligibility criteria and processes are determined by individual police forces and the College of Policing. They are subject to change without notice and are outside the University’s control.

This pre-join degree may also be of interest or benefit to those considering a career in non-PC roles in policing, for those seeking to understand how society is policed, who have an interest in law enforcement or want to enter the wider justice sector.

What you'll study

Your first year will introduce you to the fundamentals of being a police constable: what the job directly involves and the range of responsibilities, codes and conducts which must be adhered to. This year also starts your journey towards becoming an independent learner by introducing you to key research and teamwork skills which will be needed throughout the course and your career in policing. Students who successfully complete year one are eligible for an HNC in Policing Practice.

Modules

Introduction to Professional Policing and the Criminal Justice System - 30 credits

This module lays the foundations, explaining the role of the police constable and the professionalisation of the service. It proactively embeds equality, diversity and human rights as a core theme of professional policing practice. The module discusses the functions of the Criminal Justice System, explaining the police role within it, including the supporting of witnesses and managing suspects.

Compulsory

Introduction to Evidence-based Policing - 30 credits

This module aims to emphasise the importance of evidence-based policing in practice. You will explore case studies on the impact of evidence-based policing in different areas of practice as well as be able to distinguish between different types of evidence. You will also learn to employ the key protocols of radio communication in police work.

Compulsory

Policing Responsibilities - 30 credits

This module will introduce you to the broad, complex and expanding area in which policing now operates. This module is the gateway to the following subjects: Criminology and Crime Prevention, Vulnerability and Risk, Public Protection, Digital Policing and Counter Terrorism.

Compulsory

Understanding Policing Practice - 30 credits

This module will consider the five core areas of professional policing practice, such as response policing, policing communities, policing the roads, information and intelligence, and conducting investigations. You will explore a very wide range of issues in this module and be able to relate your study to actual areas of practice.

Compulsory

As the course progresses, you will build on your knowledge of the criminal justice system and the policing profession, to create a deep level of understanding of what is required of a police officer in the 21st century. You will learn above and beyond what you have covered previously, such as the subject of radicalisation which will be introduced alongside how to respond to an incident as a first responder. You will also continue to further your understanding of the five core areas of policing by exploring more complex case studies. Students who successfully complete year two are eligible for an HND in Policing Practice.

Modules

Intermediate Professional Policing and the Criminal Justice System - 30 credits

This module will further embed the concepts of valuing difference and inclusion, maintaining professional standards and the criminal justice process but at a more advanced, intermediate level. We examine the theories and concepts linked to ethics and the impact of policing in diverse communities.

Compulsory

Intermediate Evidence-based Policing - 30 credits

You will analyse the constraints associated with an evidence-based approach to policing including an analysis of cost-benefit and end-user satisfaction. You will have an opportunity to develop a research proposal based on an identified problem, learn about ‘organisational justice’, and be able to advance strategies for dealing with organisational culture in policing.

Compulsory

Principles of Modern Policing - 30 credits

This module explores new concepts within the constituent subjects (Criminology and Crime Prevention, Vulnerability and Risk, Public Protection, Digital Policing, and Counter Terrorism) while consolidating existing knowledge. The subject matter is advanced and the case studies more complex, reflecting the ever-changing requirements of modern-day policing.

Compulsory

Aspects of Policing Practice - 30 credits

You will explore a wide range of issues of policing and be able to relate to actual areas of practice. These include an in-depth understanding of a ‘critical incident’ and the role of the Joint Emergency Services Operation, community engagement strategies and the roles of key stakeholders.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement can often be beneficial. Work placements² usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

UK Work Placement – 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each international study programme/placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

In the final year of this course, you should identify as having an advanced level of critical analytical and reasoning skills and will consequentially be asked to critically reflect on your own professional practice and explore current affairs affecting your local policing service.

You will undertake a sustained, in-depth research exploration project using the skills taught to you throughout the duration of this course. You will also complete a specialist research project in your chosen area of professional policing practise. After successful completion of these modules, you will be educated to meet the demands of 21st-century policing and gain a Professional Policing BA (Hons) degree.

Modules

Professional, Leadership and Problem-Solving Skills in Policing - 30 credits

This module aims to enhance your awareness of professionalism in modern policing. You will critically explore the use of social media in policing as well as the influence such media would have on communities and the individual. You will learn advanced leadership skills and be introduced to coaching, mentoring and assessment in the workplace.

Compulsory

Community Policing Priorities - 30 credits

This module equips you with the requisite knowledge and skills needed to address local policing priorities as identified by the respective police services. These may include caring for the vulnerable, increased blue light collaboration, effective use of technology, empowering communities and efficient and timely customer service.

Compulsory

Independent Research Project on Policing - 30 credits

The module enables you to undertake a sustained, in-depth research exploration and demonstrate your ability to use research and enquiry skills to collect, analyse and interpret relevant literature and information. You will identify a hypothesis to conduct a research project on, working within an aspect of policing for further investigation and produce a comprehensive, analytical report of this area taking account of appropriate research skills.

Compulsory

Specialist Research on Policing - 30 credits

In this module, you will undertake specialist research in your chosen area of professional practice, demonstrating your ability to use research and enquiry skills to collect, analyse and interpret relevant literature/information. You will identify a specific area to conduct the research project in and produce a comprehensive, analytical report of this area taking account of appropriate research skills.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

In addition to lectures, we utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work.

We also operate an open-door policy, with additional availability via email and our current online learning platform, Aula.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours:

Teaching hours vary depending on year of study and due to module selection. During your first year you can expect 15-18 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study:

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning:

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. The assessment methods may include:

Coursework
Interactive assessments.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

Entry level	What we're looking for
HNC	64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND	80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree	104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Offer, you could automatically receive a contextual offer which is 16 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Offer.

Entry level	What we're looking for
HNC	64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND	80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree	104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

Visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events, and how to apply. You can view our full list of country-specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

For information regarding specific requirements, please ask a question.

English language requirements

IELTS: Applicants must possess a minimum IELTS of 6.0 overall (with no component part lower than 5.5)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £9,535 per year	Not available
EU	2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £9,535 per year with EU Support Bursary 2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £14,800 per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	2026/27 fees TBC 2025/26 fees: £14,800 per year	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2027/28 will pay £1,500 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,800 if they are paying international fees.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Fees and funding page and see the university’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2027/28. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

We offer a range of international scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our international scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Some taught sessions take place in the neighbouring building, Elm Bank. We also utilise the facilities in the Alison Gingell building, such as the community houses and hospital ward for role play/simulation work.

The modern CU Coventry Mile Lane campus has been designed to promote collaboration, creativity and innovation. Facilities include:

indoor and outdoor social spaces, including a ground floor café.
a ground floor library that includes loan laptops and a silent study area.
open-access IT suites.
student support and careers advice teams.

CU Coventry students also have access to facilities located on the Coventry University campus. These include the Lanchester Library and The Hub.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

This degree aims to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to apply to the police force to become a Police Constable.

You must apply to your chosen police force within five years of your graduation date. Exact requirements may vary by force (check policing websites for more information).

Completing this degree does not guarantee recruitment as a trainee police constable, but it is one of the four entry routes into the policing profession as of 2025.

It is important to note that for career progression into the police force, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be carried out. Please be aware that any previous convictions may affect your eligibility to join the police force.

This qualification may also support careers in related areas such as community safety, criminal justice, investigative roles and public sector organisations.

How to apply

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time UK undergraduate students apply through UCAS. If a part-time option is available, part-time students should apply directly to CU Coventry. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

(+44) 02477 652222

cuc@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
CUCU040

International students should apply to CU Coventry directly. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International pages or Coventry University Group's International hub.

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

(+44) 02477 652222

internationalenquiries.io@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations, partnerships and memberships

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply. See the relevant body website for more details). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships are subject to successful renewal in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. If the accreditation, recognition or membership of this course changes, we will seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2025/2026 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2026/2027 contract will apply for the 2026/2027 intake. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.