
Police Constable - Degree Holder Entry Programme - (DHEP)
West Midlands PoliceKey Takeaways
- Train as a Police Constable while studying for a Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing.
- Starting salary of £32,256, rising annually up to £52,014 within seven years.
- Requires a degree (Level 6 or above) or to be in the final academic year of a degree.
- A two-year programme balancing frontline policing, in-house training, and university-led learning.
About the Role
This is a graduate route for individuals with a degree (Level 6 or above) in any subject, allowing you to train as a Police Constable while studying for a Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing.
This is a two-year programme that balances in-house training, university-led learning, and frontline policing. Learning is delivered through a blend of classroom teaching (at WMP sites and virtually), on-the-job experience, and digital study. You will receive ongoing guidance and mentoring from experienced officers.
Upon successful completion of the two-year probation, you will have access to a wide range of career paths, including specialist units (Firearms, Dogs, Roads Policing, Investigations, Drones) and progression into leadership roles.
Note: This is not a direct Detective route. However, after initial training, you may apply to join our Detective Academy pathway.
What's in it for you?
- Salary: Starting salary of £32,256, rising annually up to £52,014 within seven years.
- Qualification: Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing (on successful completion).
- Annual Leave: 25 days’ annual leave, rising to 30 after five years.
- Benefits: Extensive benefits, including a pension scheme, employee support, staff networks, and professional development opportunities.
- Impact: A career that matters, making a lasting impact on communities while developing your skills and future.
Who can apply?
You must have:
- A degree (Level 6 or above) in any subject, at any grade, OR
- Be in the final academic year of your degree (eligibility dependent on completion).
Only final degree certificates will be accepted and must be uploaded with your application.
Fitness, Medical & Vetting
- Must meet the bleep test standard of 5.4.
- Must pass medical checks, which may include drug and fitness testing.
- Must pass required vetting checks.
Residency & Nationality
- Lived in the UK for the past three years.
- Must be a British, Irish, or EEA national, or have the right to work in the UK without restrictions.
Application Process
Refer to the careers website for a step-by-step breakdown. The programme involves a two-year blended learning programme combining policing experience with academic study.