Course Overview
Access courses are designed for you if you are aged 19 or over and want to progress into university but don’t yet have the traditional entry qualifications. This one-year programme helps you rebuild your academic confidence while developing subject knowledge linked to policing, criminology and the wider criminal justice sector.
You’ll strengthen your academic writing, research and critical thinking skills alongside studying specialist modules that explore crime, law, politics and psychological perspectives. Teaching takes place through tutor-led sessions supported by online learning materials available through the college’s virtual learning environment, Canvas, allowing you to study both in class and independently.
You’ll study a wide range of subject areas, including Academic Writing, Elements of Crime, Criminology, Human Rights, Law of Contract, Law of Homicide, The Powers of Police, British Government and Politics, Crime and Society, Aggression and Psychological Profiling. These modules help you develop the knowledge and skills needed to progress confidently into higher education.
Entry Requirements:
Maths and English at 4(C) or above
Course Highlights
Course Units
You will study a range of academic and subject-specific units, which include:
Law
• The English Legal System
• Elements of a Crime
• Police Powers and Accountability
• Law of Homicide
• Law and Morality
Criminology
• Crime and Society
• Crime Data and Social Inequality
• Patterns of Crime
• Contemporary Crime Issues
Psychology
• Psychological Perspectives
• Social Influence, Obedience, and Conformity
• Aggression and Criminal Behaviour
• Psychological Disorders and Treatments
• Psychology in Criminal Investigations
• Academic Skills
• Academic Writing
• Research Skills and Information Literacy
• Preparing for Higher Education
• Professional Behaviours and Ethical Practice
• Presentation and Communication Skills
These subject areas develop your understanding of policing and criminal justice while preparing you for degree-level study.
Course Breakdown
Course Structure
You can expect to be in college for approximately 12 hours per week, usually spread across 2–3 days. Learning combines tutor-led teaching, group discussion, independent research and guided academic activities designed to prepare you for university study.
Sessions are supported by online resources through Canvas, helping you access materials, submit work and continue learning outside of the classroom.
Progression & Next Steps
After completing this Access Diploma, you can progress onto a wide range of higher education courses, including:
• Professional Policing
• Criminology
• Criminal Justice
• Law or Sociology degrees
You may also choose to progress into higher-level apprenticeships or employment routes within the policing and public services sector.