Professional Policing Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Policing is about far more than enforcing the law. It requires ethical judgement, an understanding of communities and the ability to work effectively with other professionals to protect the public. On this course you’ll develop the theoretical, methodological and ethical understanding needed to prepare for a future career in policing and related areas of public service.

This degree is licensed by the College of Policing, meaning it meets national requirements for certain entry routes into policing. While completion of the course does not guarantee employment, it allows you to focus on professional police training during your probationary period, without needing to undertake further academic study alongside it.

The course is designed for students interested in law, policing and working with people, particularly in situations involving vulnerability. You’ll explore how policing responds to harm and risk, including cases involving children, adults with learning difficulties, physical or mental health needs, older people and those experiencing domestic abuse. This helps you understand the responsibility policing carries in protecting the public, especially those most at risk.

Why Study Professional Policing BSc(Hons) at University of Huddersfield?

A key feature of the course is learning how policing operates in partnership with other professions. You’ll explore how police officers work alongside healthcare, social care and legal professionals, developing an understanding of communication, shared responsibilities and decision-making across disciplines. This reflects real policing practice and supports your preparation for the profession.

Teaching combines academic study with applied, interactive learning. You’ll engage through written work, practical exercises, small-group discussions and debate, focusing on areas such as policing communities, crime prevention, the criminal justice system and social science perspectives on policing.

You’ll be taught by lecturers with extensive research and professional expertise, alongside police officers and practitioners from other organisations. Guest speakers from community and professional settings also contribute to teaching, offering insight into real-world policing challenges.

You’ll study as part of a small, supportive course community, where students are known by staff and supported to reach their full potential. You’ll also have a Personal Academic Tutor to guide your academic development and help you understand both the demands of policing and the standards expected of those entering the profession.

Graduates of this course are well prepared to pursue entry routes into policing, as well as roles across security and public service where professional judgement, ethical decision-making and partnership working are essential.

Professional Bodies\
We are licenced by the College of Policing (CoP) to offer the Professional Policing Degree. This is the recognised pre-qualification in policing under the College’s Policing Education Qualifications Framework (PEQF).

Why Huddersfield?\
Huddersfield’s vibrant and friendly campus is a great place from which to study, while the town itself offers lots to see and do, with good transport links in and around the area.

Not quite ready to start Professional Policing BSc(Hons)?\
Successful completion of our Social Science Foundation Pathway will equip you with the foundation knowledge to study Professional Policing.