This notion of adaptability and context specific learning lies at the heart of all our level 7 programmes. Rather than being prescriptive in the way we deliver the module subject areas and subsequent assessments we recognise that the diversity of our students and their research needs is important. Differing roles and ranks within the organisation may influence both decisions to study and the subject focus chosen. What is clear is that the policing landscape is changing both internally, through changes to recruitment expectations and continuous professional development, and indeed in the external environment. Austerity cuts to other public services has meant that the police service has experienced increased demand from other agencies who have experienced similar budget cuts. Mental health, county lines, vulnerability, child sexual exploitation, technology development and constant internal reform are just a few on the list. That is why our MSc in Applied Policing Practice may be for you.
MSc Applied Policing Practice
“I found the MSc in applied police practice at CCCU a fantastic course that was both challenging and rewarding. I would highly recommend it for anyone within policing, whether that is officers or staff who are looking to deepen and develop their understanding of how policing is undertaken and how policing research findings can be put to best use. The key element of this course was giving me the skills and insight in how to collect the relevant information and data, how to analyse that data in a meaningful way, and critically how to use the findings from it in an operational setting and put them to a practical use. The course content, as with previous study I have undertaken at CCCU, was excellent and through provoking and the learning resources available are superb. The support offered by the tutors and lecturers was amazing and there exists a genuine warmth and engagement from the staff towards students which in turn creates a safe learning environment and discussion platform” (Dan Card, MPS officer)
I found the MSc in applied police practice at CCCU a fantastic course that was both challenging and rewarding. I would highly recommend it for anyone within policing, whether that is officers or staff who are looking to deepen and develop their understanding of how policing is undertaken and how policing research findings can be put to best use
Dan Card, MPS officer
This taught post graduate programme is built to allow students individual choice over the subjects they study. It is delivered on line over two years with the preferred option of attending 4 study weekends in Canterbury during the academic year. The study weekends are very popular and offer students the opportunity to engage with their fellow students / tutors and attend public lectures. However, we recognise that in the profession of policing this is not always possible. Hence the flexibility of the distance learning option for this programme.
In year one the students study 3 modules which focus on building and understanding the use of evidence in a range of different policing contexts. The first module focuses on external demand issues. Lecture content is flexible to ensure that each year we are focusing on subjects that are relevant and real for the officers on the programme.
The second module explores the available evidence on a range of internal, organisational issues such as professionalisation, reform and staff wellbeing. The flexible nature of the assessment process means that students can focus on a subject of their choice that is relevant to their professional position in the police. Alongside this, the students study research methods which equips them with the knowledge required to undertake their final year research project. The flexible nature of the course has appealed to officers. They have been able to conduct meaningful, operational research and take the recommendations back to the workplace to enhance learning and change.
This programme offers other post graduate pathways are available – please contact [email protected] for more details on this programme
MSc By research in Policing
“On the MSc in Policing by research, I learnt how to ‘do’ research. Who would have thought that I would be using theoretical sampling and grounded theory to develop a theoretical model of how Custody Sergeants make decisions? Who would have thought that I would be able to combine criminological theory whilst also exploring further my interest in foreign languages? Who would have thought I would submit a paper for peer-review to an international journal? This flexible independent-learning led programme, supported by experienced, approachable and encouraging academic staff, created the space for me to generate new knowledge, and contribute to the academic debate, as well as develop policing practice. All things I didn’t think were possible.” (Matt, police staff)
This flexible independent-learning led programme, supported by experienced, approachable and encouraging academic staff, created the space for me to generate new knowledge, and contribute to the academic debate, as well as develop policing practice
Matt, police staff
Some students may prefer to complete a ‘by research’ option for their post graduate study and if that is the case this programme is perfect. Over two years, with guidance from an academic supervisor, students will study an area of policing of their choice and conduct research to add to the existing knowledge of that subject area. The student therefore develops expert knowledge in that area and builds an understanding of research to take back to the organisation within which they work. Whilst this programme is more based on independent study, a lecture series in the first year provides students with the research skills required to complete their own empirical research. Additionally, it allows students to become part of the wider research community at Canterbury Christ Church University.
Please contact [email protected] for more details on this programme
PhD by Thesis/Phd by Portfolio in Policing
The PhD programmes are for prospective applicants who already hold a master’s level qualification and want to pursue research at a higher level. The Phd by thesis is the traditional PhD route requiring one extended thesis in any area of policing. Our new PhD by Portfolio programme is designed for people in the workplace who might want to focus on an area of their work with the assessment divided into smaller parts typically including, case-studies, a literature review, small scale research, policy analysis, learning plans and reflective accounts. These assessments culminate in the equivalent to the traditional thesis with both programmes totalling approximately 80,000 words. The Graduate College in the university provide sessions on research methodology that can be accessed online, and further sessions are delivered within the School of Law, Policing & Social Sciences online and during 4 study weekends in Canterbury (these sessions are recorded and placed online). Each successful applicant is provided with a supervision team. Applicants are required to complete an application and proposal form followed by an interview. We strongly advise speaking to a member of the programme team before submitting your application to ensure we can match your area of interest with appropriate expertise.
For further information please contact:
Dr Paul Swallow PhD by Portfolio [email protected]
Prof Stephen Tong, PhD by Thesis [email protected]
For more details of all our PG programmes please visit: https://bit.ly/3cwVuTv
Canterbury Centre for Policing Research (CCPR)
All of the police students’ research falls under the umbrella of the CCPR. Launched in 2016 the Centre has a growing community of policing post graduate students conducting research in several contemporary policing subjects. The students’ research features in a poster series at the CCPR annual conference and there are opportunities for students to deliver their research findings at a range of events at the University. The Centre’s Director Emma Williams is a member of the executive board at the Society of Evidence Based Policing which also offers students opportunities to present their research to a wider audience.
The Centre holds several public lectures, round table events and webinars and has strong links with the College of Policing. All students are encouraged to use the College of Policing’s research map to publicise their research nationally. The Centre prides itself on the relationship it has with practitioners and academics. By recognising practitioners’ knowledge within research, the reality of the policing world is reflected in the research findings. The Centre has worked with the Metropolitan Police Service, College of Policing, Kent Police, The Police Federation and Police Now.
The team at the CCPR have a wide range of policing experience which reflects the diversity of the role and the environment and we really hope you choose a PG programme with us. Please contact us on [email protected] if you are interested in joining us and helping us grow our research community in the exciting world of policing.
Police Education Qualification Framework webinar (sponsored by Policing Insight)
Coming soon on July 22nd we have a webinar event planned about the PEQF. The event is scheduled from 1800-1930 and features research conducted by the College of Policing on early learning about the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, research from the CCPR on local preparedness for the PEQF and perspectives from academics and learning and development representatives on establishing partnerships to deliver education to officers in this new world. More nationally focused work conducted by the Open University will also feature from Professor Denise Martin. There will be a chance to ask questions about the discussions and the event will be recorded for viewing after the event. We really hope some of you come along!
To watch the event live at 6pm on 22 July via Teams go to: https://bit.ly/2YlrUMh
