Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA)
Merseyside PoliceExpected closing date: Thursday, 31 December 2026
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Key Takeaways
- Earn a full salary of £32,256.00 per annum while studying for a degree.
- Undertake a three-year Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University.
- Work 40 hours per week in shifts, including nights, evenings, and weekends, across various Merseyside locations.
- Must hold a full manual UK driving licence and have Maths and English Language GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).
About the Role
Student Police Officer – Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA)
This is an exciting opportunity to obtain a degree whilst working and earning a full salary as a Student Police Officer.
- Starting Salary: £32,256.00 per annum
- Normal working hours: 40 hours per week - working shifts (including nights, evenings and weekends)
- Locations: Various locations across Merseyside
About Policing in Merseyside
Merseyside Police serves a population of 1.5 million across a geographical area of 647 square kilometres. As a Police Officer, you will be the face and voice in the community, speaking to victims, preventing crime, and making a real difference.
The PCDA Programme
This three-year programme is delivered in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University and includes classroom delivery, practical application, and tutorship. Your time will be varied between on-the-job training, active frontline operational duties, academic modules, coursework, and exams.
Support is available for individuals who may need additional educational assistance, including IT software and extra time for assessments.
Recruitment Process
The recruitment process includes:
- Initial sift against eligibility criteria.
- College of Policing National Sift.
- College of Policing Online Assessment.
- In-Force interview assessing values and behaviours.
- Pre-employment checks (references, fitness test, medical, biometrics, vetting).
- Final offer, registration, and acceptance into LJMU.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Must hold a full manual UK driving licence at the time of application.
- Required qualifications: Maths and English Language GCSEs Grade C/4 and above or Functional Skills equivalent.
- Applicants with existing degrees are ineligible for this route.
- If GCSE equivalent qualifications were obtained abroad, a UK ENIC translation is required.
Commitment to Inclusion
Merseyside Police is committed to building a workforce that represents the communities it serves and particularly welcomes applications from women and black & ethnic minority candidates. Support and guidance are available throughout the application process for candidates from under-represented groups.
Important Notes
- Applications may close earlier than the advertised closing date due to anticipated high volume.