Is Policing a Good Career Choice? And How Can You Get Your Start?

Want to know how to become a police officer? Not sure if it’s the right career path for you?

There are many benefits to becoming a police officer but before diving in it’s always important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the career you’re considering. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to everything you’ll need to know before joining the police. We’ll also be discussing the qualifications and experience required as well as the standard career progression.

Why Consider a Career in Policing?

Is policing a good career? Well, that’s a good question and before you can know for sure you have to weigh both the rewards and the challenges, as well as how they relate to you.

A career as a police officer can be incredibly fulfilling for those motivated by public service and community safety. In fact one of the main pros of being a police officer that people cite is their sense of purpose. Every day brings a chance to make a real difference.

Some days that means working hard to prevent crime. Other days that means supporting victims. Sometimes being an officer is just about spreading awareness in your community, talking to people on the street and being a friendly face of safety and security.

Of course that’s not to say there aren’t hard days. A job in the police often means unsociable hours and serious risk. It’s emotionally demanding and requires a lot of patience.

It’s also important to note that – as with most public services – funding is a constant issue in the police. While this does vary somewhat from county to county, many police officers report a lack of resources to help them carry out their duties.

Put simply, it’s a tough job and one that doesn’t always provide a security net.

What it does provide, however, is career stability. If you’re looking for structured career progression and long-term opportunities, then the police can provide that for you. The hours might not be predictable but, if you work hard and really take to the job, the promotions can be.

How to Become a Police Officer

If you want to know how to join the force, then you’re in luck – there are several entry routes in the UK depending on your education level and career goals.

Generally speaking, your main options are a PCDA (Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship) or a DHEP (Degree Holder Entry Programme).

A PCDA is a direct career path for those who want to go straight into policing, learning on the job. It allows you to earn a salary while completing a degree in professional policing practice – perfect for those just coming out of school or college.

Of course you don’t have to go straight into policing. If you’d rather start by getting a degree in an unrelated subject you’re passionate about, or else you already have a degree that isn’t in policing, then you can pursue a DHEP. This path is designed for graduates, enabling you to train as a police officer while working towards your policing degree.

There is a third option for those who know they want to join the police but don’t want to go straight into work. You can complete a policing degree before joining. The advantages of this are that you don’t have to start your career right out of school and that you’ll have a really strong application to your first job.

Applying to Join The Police

The application to become a UK police officer involves several stages. First of all, you’ll submit your application and complete a series of online assessments. If you’re successful, you’ll attend an assessment centre, undergo fitness tests, and pass through some basic vetting checks.

Assuming all of the above goes to plan, you’ll be accepted as a new recruit. Now you’ll have some formal training, followed by a probationary period.

Before applying, make sure to research your local police force. Policing in the UK can vary a lot from county to county. Different forces are given a lot of discretion in how they choose to handle policing. As such everything from basic expectations to job culture can vary a great deal.

Crime rates as well as the types of crime committed are often very dependent on the local area and this translates directly into your day-to-day work.