Policing

The Policing program at University College London offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding the vital role of policing within society. This innovative degree combines theoretical frameworks, practical insights, and empirical research to examine the complex issues faced by law enforcement agencies today. Throughout the course, students will explore topics such as criminal justice, community policing, crime prevention, criminal law, ethics, and the sociopolitical context of policing practices. The program is designed to equip students with critical thinking skills, analytical capabilities, and an in-depth understanding of policing strategies and policies at local, national, and international levels.

Students will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and real-world case studies, fostering a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities in modern policing. The curriculum includes modules on intelligence-led policing, police ethics and accountability, crime sociology, and the use of technology and data in policing. Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of community engagement, human rights, and diversity in law enforcement practices.

The degree program is suitable for individuals aspiring to pursue careers in policing, criminal justice, policy development, or related fields. It also provides an excellent foundation for those interested in academic research or policy analysis concerning criminal justice systems. UCL’s strong links with law enforcement agencies, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations enrich the learning experience, offering students valuable networking opportunities and practical exposure. Graduates from the program will be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to policing and criminal justice initiatives worldwide, supporting the development of more just, effective, and community-oriented policing practices.

The programme will outline the philosophical and theoretical bases for evidence-based policing practice. Issues will be examined with respect to ethical, policy and political contexts. It is a multidisciplinary programme drawing on psychology, statistics, mathematics, engineering, architecture, forensic sciences, design, geography and computing and is designed to enable graduates to be effective leaders and managers of a modern diverse police service.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

Core modules

• Ethical Policing
• Foundations of Security and Crime Science
• Police and the Public
• Models of Policing for Crime Reduction
• Quantitative Methods or Designing and Doing Research (you will take one of these)
• Dissertation

Optional modules

Students choose three of the following:

• Investigation and Detection
• Intelligence Gathering and Analysis
• Management Skills for Police Leaders
• Perspectives on Organised Crime
• Perspectives on Terrorism
• Prevention and Disruption
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Introduction to Cybersecurity
• Cybercrime
• Hotspot Policing

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and workshops. Distance learning students will have access to enhanced Internet-based tools and resources and virtual links between staff and students. Assessment is through unseen examinations, coursework, presentations, reports and project assignments.

Applicants for admission should be serving police and law enforcement officers or security professionals and have, or expect to obtain before entry, a lower second-class Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. criminology, psychology, sociology, law, geography or hard science) from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Candidates who have at least five years' relevant professional experience are also eligible. In exceptional circumstances, students who do not fulfil these requirements may be considered.

UCL Security and Crime Science is offering up to 14 bursary scholarships of between £2,500 and £10,000 to outstanding applicants who have been offered places on one of our MSc programmes.

The Policing program at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the practices, policies, and challenges faced by modern law enforcement agencies. This interdisciplinary course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the social, legal, and ethical dimensions of policing, with a particular focus on contemporary issues such as community engagement, rights-based policing, crime prevention, and the use of technology in law enforcement. Students will engage with a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical simulations, allowing them to develop critical thinking and analytical skills applicable to real-world policing environments. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding the sociopolitical context of policing, examining issues like systemic bias, diversity, and accountability within law enforcement institutions. Throughout their studies, students will analyze current trends and challenges, including cybercrime, terrorism, and organized crime, gaining insights into how police forces adapt to evolving threats. The curriculum also covers the legal frameworks governing policing, human rights considerations, and ethical dilemmas faced by officers. UCL's location in London offers students unique opportunities to observe policing in an urban setting, including potential placements and collaborations with local law enforcement agencies. Graduates of the program will be well-equipped for careers in policing, crime analysis, policy development, or further academic research. The program fosters a multidisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from criminology, law, sociology, and public policy to prepare students for effective and ethical policing. With a strong emphasis on research-led teaching, students are encouraged to contribute to ongoing debates and innovations in the policing field, preparing them for leadership roles in both public and private sectors related to law enforcement.