Your pathway to studying Policing, Criminology and Criminal Justice courses at university.
Access to HE Diploma in Policing
Aspiring to become a police officer, community support officer, or another law enforcement professional?
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Policing is your gateway to university and a rewarding career in law enforcement.
This intensive one-year course is designed for motivated individuals who aspire to serve and protect their communities. Whether your ambition is to become a police officer, work in criminal investigation, or contribute to public safety, this diploma provides the essential knowledge and skills to move forward with confidence.
You’ll develop strong academic and study skills, laying a solid foundation for university-level learning and beyond. With expert guidance and dedicated support, you’ll be prepared to take the next big step toward your future in policing.
Apply for the course here
Course Overview
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Policing will prepare you for university and for a career in the Police Force. The course will develop your knowledge and skills in a range of different policing professions, and develop your understanding of the powers of the police and the role of the police.
You will study:
- Crime in context
- Criminal law
- Introduction to law enforcement
- Professional behaviours for police officers
- Sociology of crime and deviance
- Explain, understand and explore the cause of crime
- Collect, analyse and evaluate research data
- Understand the fundamental principles of criminal liability
- Analyse the role and responsibilities of law enforcement officers in the UK
Entry Requirements
Applicants must be 19 years or older, and have both maths and English at Level 2 or above.
Applicants should also meet the Police Officer entry requirements; these can be found here and should be read prior to applying for the course.
“The course gives you fantastic exposure to the different roles available in the police, and the more experience I’ve had, the more it’s helped me question and understand what I want to specialise in.
“I’ve gained so many valuable life skills, and incredible insight into what a career in the police could like for me. It’s such an exciting career to go into, and this course has really shown me what you can achieve when you put your all into something.”
Polly McFarlane, studied Access to HE Diploma (Policing)
Apply in three easy steps!
Find your course
Browse our available Access to HE Diplomas and apply online using the application form. You can find this on the course information page by clicking ‘Apply Now’. Our team will soon be in touch with you about your application.
Come in for a chat
You’ll be invited to an Information and Guidance session either online or on campus to meet your tutor and discuss the course. You may be asked to complete a short assessment to allow our team to find out more about you.
Receive your offer
You will be contacted with an offer, subject to you meeting the entry criteria for your chosen course. Our team will be in touch with information about how to enrol onto your Access to HE Diploma.
