Uniforms and degrees: investigating student experiences of higher education and policing

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an account of student perceptions (age 16þ) of the value of both obtaining a university degree and how it relates to the profession of policing. In addition, the paper details opinions of the perceived benefit of a degree with regard to potentially supporting career progression.

Design/methodology/approach – Participants were recruited directly, following input from a Midlands based University at a range of outreach activities, where they completed short, online questionnaires offering their thoughts and opinions on higher education and policing. Study participants were from four schools and colleges within the West Midlands area, with all respondents meeting the inclusion criteria of being in the 16þ age group (Year 12 and 13).

Findings – The study yielded several key findings. Firstly, respondents positively demonstrated an intention to progress from school/college onto university, believing that having a degree or some form of formalised training is beneficial to development. Secondly, almost half of respondents indicated that they felt a police officer should have a degree to properly perform their duties. Thirdly, there was a mixed response as to whether they would prefer a police officer had a degree when dealing with the public. Finally, over half of respondents felt that holding a degree would be beneficial for career development within the police.

Practical implications – Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and partner force to work closely with feeder schools and colleges to provide information on the most suitable pathway into policing for potential officers of the future. By working closely with individual students, HEIs and forces have the scope to best align a potential police officer with the ‘‘bespoke’’ course for them, which should offer career and academic satisfaction. HEIs to further develop a broad range of skills, supporting both academic credibility and career development, further embedding the value of obtaining a degree.

Originality/value – This original research highlights clear evidence from respondents that there is a good deal of perceived value that can be gathered from holding a degree. This is shown from both the perspective of new recruits joining the police and to the potential as an aid to career development.