Force opens new non-degree entry route to become a police officer
Dorset Police has opened a new entry route for people wishing to become police officers without the need to have a degree or study for one.
The Police/Detective Constable Entry Programme (PCEP/DCEP) is a vocational route designed specifically for those who prefer to learn on the job as an alternative to degree level study, allowing us to attract talent from diverse backgrounds and experiences. The Force is also able to offer a detective constable pathway for this route. (DCEP)
The introduction of this route marks an important step forward in our commitment to inclusivity and broadening access to policing careers. It also opens up possibilities for those with relevant experience, including military personnel, special constables, and police community support officers (PCSOs). This route is a two-year programme combining a mixture of classroom and operational training. Recruits will receive regular assessments, but there is no requirement to study for a degree.
The PCEP/DCEP entry route into policing is in addition to other remaining routes, including:
- Degree Holder Entry Programme for Police Constables (DHEP)
- Detective Constable Degree Holder Entry Programme DC/DHEP)
- Professional Policing Degree (PPD) Programme
- Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) Programme
This new inclusive route into policing does not require candidates to have a degree to enter and recognises prior valuable skills and experience developed in previous and current roles. Eligibility is as follows:
- You must hold a level 2 qualification in English and Maths (grade c/4 or higher) and a level 3 qualification. If you do not hold the level 2 or 3 qualifications, we will also consider relevant work experience demonstrating skills in decision-making, leadership, risk assessment, and specialist knowledge. For more detail of experience in force roles that meets the entry requirement to become a police officer please follow this link: Eligibility for Police Officers - Dorset Police and Devon & Cornwall Police working in Partnership
Chief Constable Amanda Pearson said: “I welcome this new entry route to become a police officer or detective, providing more opportunity for people to join us and help make Dorset a safe county for everyone.
“I know many people in Dorset have much to offer and can positively contribute to their communities as police officers and detectives. The Police Constable and Detective Constable Entry Programmes provide people that chance to enter policing when previously they have been unable to join.
“I look forward to welcoming you to Dorset Police as you join our police family and embark on this rewarding career.”
David Sidwick, Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner said: “I’m really pleased to see this new entry route open up and give more people the opportunity to join the police. I lobbied government with other PCCs for this non-degree entrance route so people with experiences such as ex-veterans could again have the opportunity to join Dorset Police.
“Policing is often described as a vocation, reflecting its nature as a deeply meaningful career path that goes beyond being just a job. It's a profession that demands commitment, dedication, and a strong sense of public service and we want people who have those values working in policing. I very much look forward meeting all the new recruits who take this path.”
To learn more about all our entry routes to become a police constable or detective constable please visit: Dorset New Recruit Police Officers - Dorset Police and Devon & Cornwall Police working in Partnership
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