Entry Routes

Police Constable Degree Apprentice (PCDA)

Three year programme

Probation period: three years

Minimum qualification requirement: None

Qualification you'll gain: BSc (Hons) in Professional Policing

Training: 6-month initial learning programme at South Wales Police Learning and Development services Bridgend.

Apply to a specialist team: after three years.

Degree Holders Entry Programme (DHEP)

Two year programme

Probation period: two years

Minimum qualification requirement: Third or above in an Undergraduate Degree in any subject area (excluding the Professional Policing Degree)

Qualification you'll gain: Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing

Training: 6-month initial learning programme at South Wales Police Learning and Development services Bridgend

Apply to a specialist team: after two years

Professional Policing Degree (PPD)

Two year programme

Probation: two years

Apply to a specialist team: after two years.

The PCDA is a three-year practice-based higher-education programme, leading to a BSc Hons Degree in Professional Policing Practice. It will bring together class room based learning with practical learning and on the job training and experience.

• No minimum qualification requirement – either upload a level 3 qualification at the point of application (Examples of accepted level 3 qualifications can be downloaded from the bottom of this page) or complete an online English and Maths competency based assessment if you do not hold a level 3 qualification.

• GCSE Grades A-C in Maths and English (or Level 2 equivalent) required on commencing employment. If you do not hold this qualification, you will need to complete the Essential Skills qualification during training to fulfil the requirement of the Apprenticeship Scheme.

The DHEP is a two-year programme combining on-the-job practical learning and operational competence with academic learning.

Upon completion, successful candidates will also achieve a Diploma in Professional Policing Practice.

The force covers all course fees relating to this entry route.

•  The Professional Policing Degree is a professional, academic, knowledge-based three-year degree with the curriculum designed to cover all aspects of the police constable role.

• The degree is self-funded by the student, the same as any degree, and is offered by organisations licensed by the College of Policing.

• Click here to view a full list of the organisations currently licensed.

• Eligible applicants must have completed their degree or evidence enrolment onto the final year of the Professional Policing Degree at application stage and evidence successful completion prior to appointment.

• You must apply within five years of graduating.

• National and local eligibility requirements must still be met and achievement of the degree does not guarantee a successful application. Prospective applicants are strongly advised to check eligibility requirements before commencing their degree.