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Police officer

Launch your career with Avon and Somerset Police and become a police officer who makes a real impact every day, protecting and serving vibrant rural and urban communities across the South West.

Explore our routes into policing

Everyone’s journey into policing is unique. That is why Avon and Somerset Police offer a variety of entry routes to match different backgrounds, experiences and qualifications. Whether you are just finishing school, a graduate, or bringing valuable life or work experience – there is a pathway for you.

Find out what it takes to be a police officer and the different pathways you can take:

Use the sections below to read about and compare routes, and discover which one fits your background and ambitions. If you have already decided, follow your chosen route for details of current vacancies.

Joining without a degree

You do not need a university degree to start a career in policing. These entry routes offer a combination of training and real-world experience, designed for individuals who are ready to learn on the job and make a difference in their communities.

  • Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP)

    PCEP is a two-year programme delivered in partnership with the University of the West of England. It consists of classroom, on-the-job learning and tutorship. It is also suited to military service leavers.

  • Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA)

    This route into policing enables you to learn on the job while you study. It normally takes three years. You are likely to need a level three qualification to join (two A Levels or equivalent).

Degree and degree-holder routes

If you already hold a degree, there are direct pathways into policing designed to build on your academic background. Whether you have studied professional policing or hold a degree in another subject, these routes offer focused training and a fast-track into frontline service.

  • Professional Policing Degree (PPD)

    The route for individuals who are in their final year of, or who have completed a degree in professional policing. This route involves two years of training.

  • Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP)

    A two-year training programme, combining work based and classroom-based learning. There are two DHEP routes – Police Constable or Detective Constable.

Alternative routes into policing

There is more than one way to begin or return to a career in policing at Avon and Somerset Police. Whether you are transferring from another force, returning after a break, looking to contribute as a special constable, or join as a member of staff – there are a range of alternative routes available.

  • Transferees and promotions

    Already serving with another force? We welcome experienced officers looking to transfer to Avon and Somerset Police or progress through promotion opportunities.

  • Rejoining

    If you have previously served and are ready to return, we offer structured support to help you rejoin and continue your policing journey.

  • Special Constabulary

    Special constables are volunteer officers with full police powers. You will serve your community alongside regular officers, often around your existing commitments.

Police staff roles

Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) work with police officers and share some, but not all of their powers. Read about our wide range of police staff role opportunities such as PCSOs, communications centre roles and other specialist staff roles.

Need support?

If you are unsure where to begin, contact our dedicated Talent Acquisition teams who can answer your query.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. If you need adjustments or extra help during your application, assessments or interviews read how you can contact our Outreach team.

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