Case Study

I first attended university many years ago, but at that time it didn’t work out. I lacked motivation and instead made the decision to go straight into employment. I’m now working as a Detective Sergeant, but I realised there were benefits to returning to studying and I was keen to progress my career further and broaden my skillset.

I enrolled onto the BA (Hons) Applied Investigation course as it was specific to my policing profession, so I knew it would keep me interested and engaged. I also felt it would introduce me to new concepts and ideas which I can apply to my role as a Detective Sergeant. As well as providing a suitable course for my needs, the University of Sunderland really appealed to me as several of my colleagues have completed the same degree and speak very highly of it. I got in touch with the University while I was on maternity leave and spoke with the Programme Leader, who was very engaging and credible having come from a policing background himself.

My favourite part of the course has been meeting others in a similar position to me. The students on my cohort are from related backgrounds and are all motivated to do well and support each other along the way. I also really appreciate the flexibility of the course and the fact that I can fit my studies around my family and work life. As well as this, I receive a bursary from the College of Policing to assist me with my studying which has been a great help.

I’m currently in the process of going for a promotion at work and having this additional qualification will undoubtedly better my chances in the future. I’ve learnt to apply certain aspects from my course in my day-to-day role. For example, we are just completing a module around reflective practice which has been so interesting. In policing, it’s a particularly important concept and as a manager I’ve been able to apply this first-hand.

To anyone thinking of studying at Sunderland, I’d say make the most of the resources available to you and use the opportunity to learn. The online library is fantastic! I would love the opportunity to continue with my studies – it’s really opened my mind up to a completely different way of thinking. I have some great tutors to learn from and lovely students to learn with.”

Published 5 April 2022