Northumbria University, in collaboration with Northumbria Police and Durham Constabulary, offers two distinct Police Constable Degree Apprenticeships (PCDA). These programmes provide a professional and academic pathway for new police recruits, equipping them with the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies required to operate effectively in modern policing.
The evolving world around us means there are more diverse opportunities to work in the police and protect your local community than ever before. Because of that, from 2020 trainee officers will be taken through fully-funded qualifications while they get to grips with the job they love, building the foundations for a long and successful career with a range of specialisms at their fingertips - and a great salary from the start.
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) – Northumbria Police
This programme is exclusively for officers of Northumbria Police. It has been developed in alignment with the College of Policing (CoP) standards, ensuring that new entrants gain a comprehensive education in policing. The curriculum covers key areas such as evidence-based policing, decision-making and discretion, criminology and crime prevention, proactive approaches to vulnerability, risk and public protection, and modern policing trends like digital policing.
Successful completion of the three-year programme, including the integrated End Point Assessment, results in a Degree in Professional Policing Practice and full operational competency as a Police Constable.
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) – Durham Constabulary
This programme is designed specifically for officers of Durham Constabulary and follows the same high standards set by the College of Policing. The curriculum mirrors that of the Northumbria Police programme, covering the fundamental aspects of contemporary policing to ensure officers are fully prepared for their roles.
The PCDA structure blends academic learning with practical on-the-job training, enabling apprentices to develop professional competencies while gaining a degree. Upon successful completion of the three-year apprenticeship, officers achieve full operational competency and a Degree in Professional Policing Practice.
Both PCDA programmes are delivered through a partnership between Northumbria University and the respective police forces, ensuring a high-quality educational experience that meets the evolving demands of policing.
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