Validated by Sheffield Hallam University, this distinctive and exciting Foundation Degree in Public Services: Policing Studies is ideal for students who are considering a career in the Police Service or other related criminal justice agencies. The programme integrates work-related experience throughout the module content, whilst also delivering the under-pinning academic knowledge and understanding needed to achieve learners’ future employability in the areas of Policing and Justice.

The programme consists of a mixture of theory and practical work-related modules which range from a thorough grounding in modules surrounding criminological theories, policing, law and criminal justice, through to a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of criminal justice policy and contemporary policing problems.

Students will be encouraged to apply to join the Special Constabulary or to establish links with a Police Service or associated voluntary organisation that works with the Police Service or criminal justice system to allow them to complete the work-based learning or industrial placement modules of the programme.

The Foundation Degree Programme in Public Services aims to:
Support the acquisition of knowledge and skills in criminology and criminal justice with a particular focus on policing
Encourage the development in students of a critical approach to criminology, criminal justice and policing, evaluating theory and evidence accordingly
Provide a challenging high quality programme in the area of policing and criminal justice
Create opportunities for students with an interest in policing and criminal justice to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to enable them to undertake a career role in this sector
Produce capable and well-rounded graduates who will make a contribution to the public service work force at a managerial level
Enable learners to progress on to a Full Honours Degree course in Criminal Justice Practice (Policing Studies)

Students spend 3 days studying in College, an average of 18.5 hours per week and students are expected to spend approximately 4 hours per week on work placement. Placements could be with a number of local organisations including South Yorkshire Police Special Constabulary, Sheffield Youth Offending Service, Panel Member, Police Custody Monitoring Scheme or Victim Support. Students are also expected to spend a similar amount of time on self-directed learning as they spend on tutor-led/directed study. Feedback will be given in tutorials as required.

Applicants who are studying for SHU-validated foundation degrees will receive an offer for their designated full time honours degree progression route at Sheffield Hallam University provided that they submit an application via UCAS by the deadline. Applicants who are studying for SHU-validated foundation degrees and who wish to progress to part-time study on their designated honours degree progression route will apply directly to the University.

The offer of a place on the BA (Hons) Criminal Justice Practice (Policing Studies) degree course made by the University will be subject to:
Successful completion of the foundation degree programme
Submission of a satisfactory personal statement and reference
Meeting the University's literacy and numeracy requirements
Satisfying any additional specific course requirements for entry to the designated progression route (e.g. successful completion of associated bridging studies, portfolio, interview or any non-academic conditions)
Offers are made subject to the availability of courses and the University Terms and Conditions.

Students can also go directly into employment. Many of the skills gained are particularly useful for careers in the Police Service, Military Police, the Criminal Justice System and private/commercial security services. Justice Sector workers are employed mostly through the public sector but with a significant number in the voluntary sector and a growing number in the private sector.