Industry accreditation boosts UN Policing graduates’ job prospects

​​The career prospects of graduates from the University of Northampton’s Policing degree have been given a huge boost after the course received the seal of approval from the industry’s professional body.

The University has been awarded Approved Supplier status from the College of Policing for the delivery of its Level 3 Certificate in the Knowledge of Policing.

The certificate, which students on the Policing BA (Hons) degree receive as an additional qualification upon graduation, is essential for those looking to successfully apply for an officer role with many of the UK’s police forces.

“We are delighted to have been recognised for providing industry standard training by the College of Policing,” said Angie Packwood, Criminal Justice Services Coordinator at the University.

“Some police forces require applicants to hold the Level 3 Certificate, while others look for graduates with our degree in Policing. So to be able to offer both within the same course is a real unique selling for us – it makes us one of the go-to institution for those looking to join the police force.”

The University was one of the first in the UK to award Policing degrees and enjoys a close relationship with Northamptonshire Police, which has recruited many Northampton graduates over the years.

“Within the the first year of the degree the undergraduates are recruited as a special constable into Northamptonshire Police. During their second year, they spend 10 weeks on placement within the force working alongside a police officer. They are trained and assessed to the same standard as a regular officer.” added Angie.

“Our students quickly become part of the ‘police family’ when they work alongside officers on regular shifts as a special constable, which can work in their favour when they apply for a regular officer’s position, because they are then a known quantity.

“We also have a streamlined recruitment process with Northamptonshire Police, which again can put our graduates ahead of others applying for the same role.”

Undergraduates are taught by a mix of former police officers, one serving police officer, former Armed Forces personnel and barristers.

Angie said: “The lecturers in this field are subject experts, having for many years worked within criminal justice. Our students gain from our practical knowledge. Policing is an applied course, so there’s plenty of practical work coupled with the theoretical academic underpinning.

“Students love our course, which is reflected by the fact it received 100 per cent for student satisfaction in this year’s National Student Survey*.”

While many Policing graduates go on to pursue careers within the force, the degree also covers a broader look at criminal justice, meaning other graduates have found roles with private security firms, local authorities and the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

To find out more about the Policing degree course, visit the course page.​

* FDA Police & Criminal Justice Services at the University of Northampton had 100 per cent Overall Satisfaction in the 2015 National Student Survey