Policing is undergoing far-reaching transformations in terms of rapidly changing crime types, diverse public expectations and technological developments that will continue to alter the ways in which policing is done. Our exciting new degree programme in Policing will offer a unique insight into contemporary law enforcement, the role of the Police in society, and the challenges they face. Key to the transformation of policing is the better development and application of research evidence, science and analysis to generate new approaches to established and emerging law enforcement activity.

The BSc in Professional Policing at Northumbria University is a research rich programme which draws from criminology, law, forensic science, fraud management and investigation, and cybercrime. You will learn from the experts, from a range of subject-area backgrounds, about the future challenges facing contemporary policing and the innovative responses being developed to address them. The policing degree will address critical questions that span expertise in Social Sciences, Law, Psychology, and Business allowing you to explore problems not only from a criminological, but also a sociological, legal and cultural perspective relating to the role, function and philosophical approaches to policing.  

Northumbria University is licensed by the College of Policing to deliver the Pre-join Degree in Professional Policing and meets all the requirements of their national curriculum. Please note that there are no guarantees of entry to a police force post-completion of the BSc (Hons) Professional Policing.  The recruitment process for joining police forces is separate and each police force specifies its own entry requirements.

This three-year knowledge-based degree will equip you with the practical experience and theoretical knowledge now required to join the Police force as a Police Constable in England and Wales.  With the additional opportunities on the programme to gain practical experience through volunteering within the criminal justice system, our graduates may also go on to work within the wider criminal justice system.  Overall this dynamic programme will develop your understanding of the complex relationship between theory and practice, providing a great start to a career in the field of policing and criminal justice.