Policing, Law Enforcement and Security

Entry requirements

A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant discipline, e.g. Policing, Criminology, or equivalent qualification is required. Credit exemption may be given for certified or experiential learning taken during the previous five years. An interview can form part of the admissions process, for students with relevant experiential learning.

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of proficiency to IELTS 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in each band or equivalent.

Months of entry

October

Course content

Ready to lead change in policing, law enforcement and security?

The Policing, Law Enforcement and Security MSc at the University of Chester will equip you with the skills, knowledge and critical insight to make a meaningful impact in today’s complex and fast-moving world.

Whether you already have professional experience in policing, law enforcement and security, or a related field, this MSc enables you to engage with key challenges and explore topics such as cybercrime, counterterrorism, and international cooperation. As a result, you’ll gain advanced insights to strengthen your knowledge and support future career development.

Develop expertise shaped by the sector

Designed in consultation with policing, law enforcement and security agencies, this course reflects the latest thinking, with curriculum that closely aligns with national priorities identified in the UK’s National Strategic Assessment of Serious and Organised Crime and the National Security Strategy. This ensures that your learning is directly relevant to the key threats and challenges facing society today.

You’ll also explore how policing and law enforcement contribute to the prevention and management of crime, while critically examining contemporary approaches to justice, policy, and social impact.

Learn through researched-informed teaching

Our academic team brings extensive practitioner experience into the classroom, helping you to connect theory and professional practice. Guest speaker sessions will also provide you the opportunity to hear from serving professionals, such as the police service and the National Crime Agency. This blend of research-led teaching and practical insight ensures a rich and applied learning experience, grounded in real-life scenarios.

You’ll also design and conduct your own piece of independent research on a topic of your choice, with guidance from a dissertation supervisor, enabling you to showcase all the transferable skills you have gained during your studies.

Study in a professional, purpose-built environment

You’ll be based at the Wheeler campus, home to the University’s School of Law and Social Justice. This campus, located just a short walk from Chester’s lively city centre, combines historic character with modern facilities designed to support your learning and development. Key features include a 200-seat lecture theatre, high-spec computer suite, and a well-stocked library with over 8,000 books and 50 printed journals.

So, whether you’re working independently, collaborating on a project, or taking a well-earned break at the on-site café, you’ll study in a supportive and inclusive academic setting.

Enhance your career prospects

You'll develop in-demand skills and a strong understanding of contemporary policing, law enforcement and security, as well many transferable skills.

Graduates have secured roles in Policing; Youth Offending Service; Prison and Probation Service, National Crime Agency, and the Civil Service. The knowledge and skills developed on the course will prove valuable in a wide range of roles across central/local government. This course provides a foundation for further academic research or PhD study.

You’ll also benefit from tailored career support through the University’s Careers and Employability team.

Make your next move

Take your first step today by visiting our Applying for a Postgraduate Course page to find out more and begin your application.

Information for international students

International | University of Chester

Fees and funding

Postgraduate Funding | University of Chester