This programme is designed for students who intend to pursue a career with the New Zealand Police by helping them develop the academic, personal and self-management skills required for police recruitment.

Key benefits include:

• Prepare for the New Zealand Police recruitment process.
• Develop literacy, numeracy and communication skills.
• Improve confidence and independence through supportive learning.
• Learn through authentic police-related projects and scenarios.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the New Zealand Police selection process.
• Develop self-management and professional behaviour required for police training.
• Hear from guest speakers and industry representatives associated with policing.
• Build a pathway towards police recruitment or further study in sport, social work or community services.

Programme Structure

Students complete three compulsory courses (60 credits):

Mathematics in Practice (Police Studies) – 15 Credits

Students develop:

• Practical numeracy
• Problem-solving
• Quantitative reasoning
• Mathematical skills for police-related situations

Pathway Projects (Police Studies) – 30 Credits

Students:

• Apply literacy and numeracy skills through police-focused projects.
• Develop research and problem-solving abilities.
• Build skills relevant to police selection and training.

Communication in Practice (Police Studies) – 15 Credits

Students develop:

• Academic literacy
• Professional communication
• Reading and writing skills
• Oral communication
• Critical thinking

Subjects / Topics Covered

The programme includes:

• Police Studies
• Mathematics
• Numeracy Skills
• Communication Skills
• Literacy Development
• Professional Communication
• Critical Thinking
• Self-management
• Research Skills
• Problem Solving
• Study Skills
• Authentic Police Projects

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

This qualification is delivered as a Police Studies pathway and does not include additional specialist streams.

The programme prepares students for progression into:

• Police Recruitment
• Sport and Recreation
• Social Work
• Community Services
• Foundation Education Pathways

Programme Highlights

• NZQA Level 3 nationally recognised qualification.
• Specifically designed to support applicants preparing for the New Zealand Police.
• Authentic police-related learning activities.
• Supportive learning environment.
• Small class sizes.
• Guest presentations from New Zealand Police representatives.
• Focus on self-management and confidence building.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Pathway into further study in sport, social work and community services.

Career Outcomes

This qualification is primarily a pathway programme.

Graduates may:

• Prepare for application to the New Zealand Police.
• Progress to the New Zealand Police recruitment process (subject to meeting all Police eligibility requirements).
• Continue into:
  • New Zealand Certificate in Sport and Recreation (Level 4)
  • New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4)
  • New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Education and Social Sciences.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Applicants intending to join the New Zealand Police should note that entry to the Royal New Zealand Police College generally requires:

• Minimum age of 18 years.
• Successful Police vetting/background check.
• A full New Zealand driver licence.
• Meeting all New Zealand Police medical, fitness and recruitment requirements.