Course overview

This Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Public Services (General) is a higher education qualification designed to provide a broad and practical understanding of the public services sector, preparing students for a wide range of careers within uniformed and non-uniformed services. The programme develops key knowledge, skills and behaviours required to operate effectively within public services, including communication, leadership, problem-solving and decision-making. You will explore how public services operate in complex and dynamic environments, responding to social, political and technological challenges. Teaching and learning are rooted in real-world application, using case studies, scenarios and project-based learning to reflect the demands of careers in areas such as policing, emergency services, armed forces, local government, criminal justice, and the voluntary sector. The qualification is designed to develop both academic study skills and employability skills, enabling progression into employment or further study.

Course requirements

Applicants should hold a minimum of 80 UCAS points achieved through A-Levels, Level 3 Diplomas or Certificates, or an Access to HE qualification. Equivalent international qualifications will also be considered. Applicants should also ideally have GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above (or Level 2 Functional Skills) however entry to this programme without these qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applications from mature students with relevant life or employment experience ideally from a digital or technical role will also be considered on an individual basis.

What will I do?

You will study a combination of units across Level 4 and Level 5 that develop your understanding of how public services operate and respond to real-world challenges. This includes areas such as: Exploring Public Services, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Ethics, Emergency Management, Community Engagement, Leadership in Public Services, Research Project. You will engage in practical activities, as well as sport & fitness and group work, scenario-based learning and independent research to develop the skills needed for employment in the sector.

What will it give me?

Completion of both years of the HND will give you a Pearson HND in Public Services Level 5.

Materials needed

You will need all basic stationery items for studying. Students will also be made aware of any key texts / books which may be advisable to purchase for the programme. If this is the case, you will be notified of these during induction. A laptop computer would be advantageous however this is not essential as the College has dedicated IT facilities for Higher Education students and adults. You will also need to wear appropriate sport/outdoor clothing for the practical aspects of the programme but these dates will be provided to students in advance.

What can I do when I finish?

On successful completion of the HND in Public Services, you can progress into employment or further study. Potential progression routes include: Armed forces roles, Fire and rescue services, Emergency planning and response roles, Local government or civil service roles, Police or support roles within policing, Prison or probation services, Charity and voluntary sector positions. Many students choose to continue their studies for a further year, by progressing onto our BA (Hons) Criminology & Sociology Level 6 (Top Up) programme, with opportunities to progress further after that to a Level 6 top-up degree, or other local universities with other Level 6 honours degree top up options.

What next?

If you would like to apply, please click the "Apply Now" section below and follow the steps. Thank you!