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Introduction
With a national shortage of detectives within the police service, there are significant issues with resilience and maintenance of the current cohort. Police investigators study in-force qualifications with regards to investigation, namely the Professionalising Investigation Programme (PIP).
The PIP level 1 and 2 qualifications and the underpinning work-based learning that was a requirement alongside these PIP awards have been mapped to levels 4 and 5 of the BSc. Students who are currently PIP2 accredited would undertake an RPCL process and then enter the final year (level 6) to achieve the BSc Professional Investigation.
The level 6 work-based approach encourages a focus on an area of interest, producing a research study while critically reflecting on investigative skills and strategies. There are three 40-credit modules, two of which are work-based learning modules and the third is a taught module.
College of Policing Bursary Scheme
The College of Policing bursary scheme will re-open from 8 March to 29 March 2021.
Why choose this course?
• Investigators who are PIP 1 and 2 accredited have significant experience and are likely on a daily basis to deal with complex and serious criminality. There has been much discussion in the police service as to how to academically recognise and progress the skills of very experienced people who may have few or no academic qualifications but have achieved professional accreditation and qualification.
• This programme by recognising the in service PIP 1 and 2 accreditation and also experience gained in an investigative role, allows students to enter at level 6 and gain a BSc (Hons) in 15 months.
• The level 6 work-based approach allows a focus on an area of interest, producing a research study while critically reflecting on investigative skills and strategies
Overview
Students enter at level 6 and then through a work-based approach focus on an area of interest, producing a research study while critically reflecting on investigative skills and strategies. There are three 40-credit modules, two of which are work-based learning modules with the third being a taught module.
The mode of study is blended with a mix of on-campus and online delivery.
There are 6 contact days.
Modules
Learners are expected to apply theoretical concepts and principles to practical contexts in their own professional practice of investigation.
Learners will further study the principles and practices of investigation and how they apply to the workplace and undertake a professional practice project linked to the main area of specialism.
Level 6 (top-up) (BSc)
• Investigation in the Workplace (40 credits; component pass)
• Investigative Practice Project (40 credits; component pass)
• Professional Investigative Practice (40 credits; component pass).
Entry Criteria
Students must have completed PIP levels 1 and 2.
ENTRY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Home Office Share Code
For EU students only.
IF no Qualification
Please provide CV with at least 2 years of work experience, and employee reference letter.
Assessment
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. INTERNAL ENGLISH TEST if you don't have an English accredited certificate
2. Academic Interview
Assessment
A range of summative methods are employed. Exams are not used in the programmes because the assessment focus is on work-based learning and reflection of theory into practice. Coursework is the primary assessment strategy as it facilitates assessment that synthesises knowledge and understanding, cognitive, practical and key skills using methods appropriate to both the level of study and workplace requirements.
Assessment of the three modules is primarily through portfolios of evidence plus a major project, that test knowledge, understanding, cognitive skills and the practical and key (transferable) skills that mirror the skills that the learners will use within their employment role.
Career Opportunities
The level 6 work-based approach allows a focus on an area of interest, producing a research study while critically reflecting on investigative skills and strategies.
This illustrates the ability to work independently, critically reflect and operate strategically by completing a research study and contributing to the needs of the organisation.
The skills gained during the 15 month programme are transferable within the organisation and are also recognised by other employers.
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