Protective Services - Certificate of Higher Education
Summary
This dynamic and career-focused course prepares you for a wide range of roles in both uniformed and non-uniformed protective services. Delivered in partnership with Lancaster University, the programme combines academic theory with real-world application, offering insights into policing, emergency response, offender management, and multi-agency collaboration. With strong links to local and national employers, expert teaching and hands-on learning, this course is ideal for those looking to make a meaningful impact in public safety and community wellbeing.
- Course code TH1HE0008
- UCAS code LL92
- Duration 1 Year
- Day/s of week Tuesday
- Time 09:00 - 17:00
Next course dates
| Start date | Location | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
07 Sep 2026
|
University Centre
|
1 Year
|
Before applying, please check whether you meet the entry requirements under 'Key Information' for this course. Don't hesitate to call us on 01253 504343 if you need assistance.
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
Upon successful completion of the CertHE in Protective Services, students will be well positioned to pursue a variety of entry-level roles across the protective services sector. This includes opportunities within both uniformed and non-uniformed services, such as: Police Service, Fire and Rescue Service, Ambulance Service, Armed Forces, Prison and Probation Services, HM Revenue and Customs, Local Government and Civil Service, Community Safety and Engagement Roles, Charitable and Voluntary Sector Organisations, Emergency Planning and Neighbourhood Services.
The programme equips students with a foundational understanding of protective services, alongside key transferable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These attributes are highly valued in roles such as Community Support Officers, Emergency Call Handlers, Anti-Social Behaviour Officers, and other front-line or support positions within public service organisations.
Next steps at B&FC
On completion of this qualification, graduates can progress onto the Foundation Degree in Protective Services
Other study options
Fast-track graduate schemes are available in policing, intelligence, and public administration. Progression to postgraduate study (e.g. MA Criminology, MSc Criminal Justice, PGCE) is also supported. The CertHE provides an accessible entry point for those seeking a shorter qualification or a stepping stone to further study.
Employment Opportunities
Some career paths will require additional qualifications and training. Post graduate qualifications that Protective Service graduates will go on to study include Master’s courses such as MA or MSc in Criminal Investigation, Counter Terrorism, Criminal Justice, Cybercrime Investigation, DNA Profiling, Forensic Psychology, Forensic Psychology, LLM Law, LLM in Law and International Security.
Key information
Entry Requirements
- 64 UCAS points
- We welcome applicants with non-traditional qualifications or relevant work/life experience.
- Flexible admissions policy – personal statements and voluntary/work experience considered.
Qualification obtained
CertHE Protective ServicesFees and funding
To find out more about tuition fees and the various funding options available for degree-level study, please visit our dedicated financial support page for degree-level learners. As well as information on how to apply for tuition fee and maintenance loans, there is also information on the various non-repayable financial support available for eligible students to make studying at this level more accessible for individuals on a low income or with other financial commitments.
Extra costs and equipment
Students are encouraged to bring a laptop, notebook, pens and any other equipment they require for making notes during classroom-based sessions.
Optional field trips may cost approximately £60 (partially subsidised). However, there are no mandatory additional costs.
Regulation and Accreditation
Accrediting Institute: N/A
Awarding Body: The University of Lancaster
Regulatory Body: Office for Students (OfS)
Terms and conditions
Please visit our Student Terms and Conditions page for more information.
What will I learn?
The Cert HE in Protective Services at Blackpool and The Fylde College provides a comprehensive blend of academic knowledge and practical skills designed to prepare you for a successful career within the UK’s protective services sector.
You’ll begin by developing essential study and research skills in Introduction to Academic Study, helping you build confidence in analysis, communication, and critical thinking. In Introduction to Protecting Contemporary Society, you’ll explore the key organisations, policies, and challenges that shape modern protective services, from community safety to global security issues.
Through Risk, Resilience and Emergencies, you’ll learn how emergency services and partner agencies plan for, respond to, and recover from complex incidents and crises. A key focus is placed on the importance of coordinated, evidence-based decision-making in emergency and community settings. You will learn how to apply theoretical and empirical knowledge to real-world challenges, enhancing your ability to contribute to effective and innovative solutions. Public Protection focuses on safeguarding individuals and communities, including understanding legislation, ethics, and professional practice. Finally, Understanding Human Behaviour examines psychological and sociological factors influencing behaviour, decision-making, and crime—vital knowledge for any protective services professional.
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
Students are encouraged to undertake voluntary placements with local protective service agencies. Optional trips to organisations such as Lancashire Constabulary HQ and sector conferences are integrated into the course to enhance employability and real-world understanding.
How will I learn?
The CertHE in Protective Services is delivered at the University Centre campus, offering a supportive, resource-rich environment with access to IT services, library facilities, dedicated study spaces, learning mentors, and student wellbeing support. At induction you will be introduced to the academic and pastoral support available to help you succeed.
The course itself is structured around a blend of classroom-based learning and independent study, with students attending one day per week and benefiting from online resources and guided learning. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, practical workshops, role plays, simulations, tabletop exercises, and scenario-based activities. These interactive and applied approaches encourage deeper learning, support better time management through “long and thin” modules, and foster a personalised experience thanks to small cohort sizes. There will also be the opportunity to engage with guest speakers to further enrich your learning.
Throughout the course, you will develop key skills such as multi-agency collaboration, research techniques, and a comprehensive understanding of the protective services sector.
Expert tutors
All tutors involved in the delivery of degree-level courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.
Our recruitment process ensures that tutors delivering a given programme are suitably qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice. The aim of this is to enrich our students’ learning experience and enable them the to get the inside track on what working in the industry is really like.
Learning Methods
| Learning Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled | 288 | 0 | 0 |
| Independent | 912 | 0 | 0 |
| Placement | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 1200 | 0 | 0 |
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed on this programme using a variety of different methods but with the emphasis primarily on coursework and practical submissions such as essays, reports, case studies, presentations,briefing papers and a research project. There will also be open book (where you will have access to reference material) and multiple choice exams. You will receive regular feedback during the course to allow you to improve your work and increase your grade performance. All of the assessments are designed to be in line with current policing practice to support your progression post this qualification.
| Assessment Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 75% | 0% | 0% |
| Exam | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Practical | 0% | 0% | 0% |