Public Services HND
Prepare for a career in the uniformed public services with a nationally recognised Level 5 qualification focused on criminal justice, leadership and professional development.
Course Overview
- Start Date
- 14 Sep 2026
- Mode of Study
- Full-Time
- Location
- Bletchley Campus
Course overview
The Public Services HND is designed for those who want to build on existing knowledge of the uniformed public services, with a strong emphasis on the criminal justice system.
This course is suitable for those aiming to progress into careers such as Police, Border Force, Prison and Probation Services, Armed Forces, Fire Services or third-sector organisations.
It is also ideal for current public service employees who wish to gain a nationally recognised Level 5 vocational qualification to support career progression. The programme combines academic study with practical experience to prepare you for employment or further higher education.
What will I do?
You will study advanced public service topics alongside practical experiences that develop leadership, teamwork and professional skills.
In addition to classroom learning, you will take part in industry visits such as Crown Courts, HM Prisons, Counter Terror Expo and more. You will also complete a three-day outdoor skills expedition focused on leadership and mentoring, giving you the opportunity to apply what you have learned in real-world scenarios.
Modules may include:
- Research Project
- Youth Offending
- Justice, Punishment and Rehabilitation
- Serious and Organised Crime
- Offender Management
- Expedition Planning
- Professional Development
All tutors have extensive experience across a range of public services and will share professional insight to help you understand what working in these roles is really like.
What’s next?
This qualification prepares you for a variety of career pathways within the public and uniformed services. Each service has its own recruitment process, and throughout the course you will receive guidance on entry routes, applications and career planning.
Previous students have progressed into roles within the Police, Prison Service, Armed Forces, Border Force and community safety sectors, or continued their studies through degree top-up programmes.
Is it for me?
This course is ideal if you:
- Want a career that contributes to protection, justice and public safety
- Are disciplined, motivated and determined to succeed
- Can work both independently and as part of a team
- Have a genuine interest in criminal justice and public services
- Are ready for academic study combined with practical experiences
If you are committed to building a career in an important and rewarding sector, this course provides a strong foundation.
Entry requirements
You will need:
- GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, or equivalent
- An HNC in Public Services or equivalent qualification
How will I be assessed?
Each unit is assessed separately using a variety of methods, including:
- Written reports
- Presentations
- Research projects
- Practical assessments
- Oral assessments
Assessment is continuous, allowing you to build skills and confidence throughout the year.
How will my progress be monitored?
Your progress is monitored through:
- Regular one-to-one tutor meetings
- Attendance at lectures
- Completion of coursework and assessments
How much will I have to study each week?
You will attend classes for approximately 15 hours per week over 2–3 days.
In addition, you should expect to complete 10–15 hours of independent study each week, including research, reading and assignment work, as well as small-scale research projects outside of timetabled sessions.
Do I need to purchase anything?
It is recommended that you invest in basic study equipment to stay organised, such as:
- Pens, pencils and highlighters
- Course textbooks (reading list provided at enrolment)
- Lever arch files or folders
- Dividers and plastic wallets
How can I pay for my course?
There are a variety of ways in which you can get help with fees and funding while studying. Get advice on applying for funding and assessing your eligibility for financial aid here.
This course attracts funding for eligible students, so please check with the admissions team about your own circumstances.
EXPLORE COURSES
Apply today
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Public Services HND
(4762-1/1)- Start Date
- 14 Sep 2026
- Location
- Bletchley Campus
Fees- 16 – 18
- £7500 Per Year
- 19 – 23
- £7500 Per Year
- 24+
- £7500 Per Year
- Overseas
- £7500 Per Year
Fees subject to OfS approval
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