This module introduces students to the policing system in England and Wales in comparison with the structure of other police forces, including the history, structure, values, ethics and objectives.

This module also introduces policing science, in particular debates on evidenced-based policing. Further, the module uses contemporary case studies in crime, conflict and deviance to enable evaluation of the main theoretical concepts; providing a foundation for critical analysis. Students will examine the link between theory and practice in evidence-based policing in relation to crime. They will be encouraged to develop their critical thinking skills and look beyond the obvious and using their professional curiosity. Furthermore, students will be able to critically evaluate police powers, including investigation, arrest, stop and search, and emergency powers.

Students will consider theories in relation to policing practice, policing strategies and crime prevention initiative, with the view of critically evaluating their success with regards to crime, victimisation and public support. Further, students will review and analyse police reforms impacting on structure, governance, accountability and leadership, with the recognition of a holistic approach to policing in terms of working with other agencies, and introducing students to the importance of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (1984).

This assessment will meet learning outcomes 1-4. Students will undertake a written assignment whereby they will critique a particular policing theory, practice, policy or legislation as specified by the module leader. Students will show knowledge of the specified area, awareness of wider implications and support their critique with available literature.

Contact hours for lectures/tutorials
13 x 2 hour lectures and workshops introducing the information and developing discussion regarding the course material. 12 x 1 hour tutorials

Lectures will be led by the lecturer and used to deliver key concepts and learning within the module content. During these sessions, there will be interactive elements such as quizzes, short discussions, students asked for their thoughts or viewpoint and opportunities to ask questions to the lecturer.

Tutorial sessions will based around student centred learning, group discussions and case study exploration to aide students learning on the module.

162 hours of Independent study.
Non-contact time will involve extensive reading of the course material with a view to developing knowledge from recommended reading material to prepare for critical review of a policing theory.

1. Explore the link between legislation, and theory and practice in policing. Knowledge and Understanding, Learning.
2. Describe the concept of policing by consent, core policing powers, and the importance of exercising these powers fairly and without bias. Knowledge and Understanding, Learning.
3. Explain the purpose of the police service and the responsibilities of those charged with delivering a professional service. Knowledge and understanding
4. Critically analyse policing powers with reference to the relevance of human rights. Analysis

Blackstone’s Police (2021). Blackstone’s Police Manuals. Available at: https://www.blackstonespoliceservice.com/ackstone's Police (blackstonespoliceservice.com) (Accessed: 7th January 2021).

Brown, J. (2013). The future of policing. New Work: Routledge

Ingman, T. (2011). The English legal process. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Liebling, A., Maruna, S. and McAra, L. (2017). The Oxford Handbook of Criminology. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Newburn, T. (2012). Handbook of policing. 2nd edition. Abingdon: Routledge.

Roach, J. and Pease, K. (2016). Self-Selection Policing: Theory, Research and Practice. London: Springer

The Policing Theory module introduces and enables a critical evaluation of the principles on which the police service of England and Wales operates. This includes gaining knowledge and understanding of the history, structure, values, ethics and objectives of the police force in England and Wales, in comparison with the structure of other police forces.

This module also introduces policing science, in particular debates on evidenced-based policing. Further, the module uses contemporary case studies in crime, conflict and deviance to enable evaluation of the main theoretical concepts; providing a foundation for critical analysis. Students will examine the link between theory and practice in evidence-based policing in relation to crime. They will be encouraged to develop their critical thinking skills and look beyond the obvious and using their professional curiosity. Furthermore, students will be able to critically evaluate police powers, including investigation, arrest, stop and search, and emergency powers.

Students will consider theories in relation to policing practice, policing strategies and crime prevention initiative, with the view of critically evaluating their success with regards to crime, victimisation and public support. Further, students will review and analyse police reforms impacting on structure, governance, accountability and leadership, with the recognition of an holistic approach to policing in terms of working with other agencies, and introducing students to the importance of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (1984).