The Public Service foundation degree aims to provide the highly sought-after skills and knowledge that public services such as the Police, Prison Service, Fire Service, Ambulance Service, Revenue & Customs and the Armed Forces have identified as important for their employees to possess. It is designed to improve the academic capital of uniformed public service workers although anyone working with the public would benefit from taking this exciting and challenging course.

It provides an opportunity to learn about these public services directly through work-based learning and in the classroom. Modules focus on subjects such as leadership, interpersonal and presentation skills, disaster planning, workplace cultures, ethical practice, financing public services, politics and public service, deviance, forensic science, equality, and cultural diversity.

The teaching staff includes lecturers who have previous experience of working in these sectors and during your studies you will also be able to hear from, as well as interact with, a wide range of public service professionals. There is also the opportunity to continue your academic studies by progressing onto the BA (Hons) Public Service.

Assessment is via a mix of examination, coursework and essays, plus other oral, work-based and activity-based assignments.

Special features

The teaching staff includes lecturers who have previous experience of working in these sectors and during your studies you will also be able to hear from, as well as interact with, a wide range of public service professionals. There is also the opportunity to continue your academic studies by progressing onto the BA (Hons) Public Service.

Associated careers

As a graduate in public service you will be ideally situated to pursue a career in the Fire Service, Police Service, Prison Service, Ambulance Service, Revenue & Customs and the Armed Forces, or in any other role that brings contact with the public.

Links with industry/Professional recognition

This degree has been developed, and continues to develop, through the very strong links with the Fire, Police, Prison, and Ambulance Services, Revenue & Customs, and the Armed Forces.

Entry requirements

120 - 160 UCAS tariff points.

3 GCSEs at grade C or above in English, Maths and Science

Please note AS levels are acceptable only when combined with other qualifications.
Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements.

We welcome applications from EU students.