Master of Science - Police Leadership, Strategy and Organisation

Police leaders today must operate in a transparent, ethical, and highly accountable environment, where their decisions are often scrutinized by politicians, the media, the public, and increasingly, their police colleagues. The Policing Vision 2030 outlines plans to professionalize policing over the next five years, acknowledging the social and political challenges faced by forces. The MSc in Police Leadership, Strategy, and Organisation is designed to support the professional development of current and future leaders, while also offering opportunities for individuals with high potential to shape the future of the profession. This program aligns with the College of Policing’s Police Education Qualifications Framework (PEQF), aiming to develop critical thinkers and 'level up' skills for future police leaders.

The course combines the latest business and management thinking with criminology and social sciences, applying them to the complex challenges of contemporary policing. Launched in response to increasing calls for public accountability, the growing importance of community partnerships, and concerns over police integrity, this program addresses not only trust and legitimacy with the public but also the internal dynamics within police culture. The program offers students the opportunity to learn how to instigate meaningful change within their own forces.

The MSc goes beyond traditional public sector leadership courses, providing in-depth knowledge on critical issues such as police accountability, independence, policing effectiveness, performance, and organizational transformation. It is designed to stretch and inspire participants, helping them reach the highest professional standards in leadership. The program also equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and collaborate with a new generation of police officers.

Students will benefit from a powerful network of influential figures in policing, including chief constables, crime commissioners, and representatives from national policing organizations like the College of Policing and the Chartered Management Institute. These figures have played a key role in shaping the course to ensure it meets the current needs of the profession. This strong network provides students with access to an exceptional visiting speaker program, offering opportunities to discuss issues in confidence with leaders in the field, as well as regular events with organizations such as the Society of Evidence-based Policing and the British Society of Criminology.

With a truly global outlook, the program provides a unique bridge between policing in the UK and around the world. Unlike other police leadership courses that focus primarily on the UK or the USA, the MSc offers a broader international perspective, allowing students to share insights and experiences with senior police officers from across the globe.

Recognizing that many students on this program are serving emergency service personnel, the University of Derby offers a flexible approach to learning. While face-to-face attendance at lectures is encouraged, students can negotiate attendance with the program lead in advance to accommodate their work schedules.

The teaching team consists of experienced academics, many of whom are former police officers with over 250 years of combined experience in the criminal justice sector. They offer students fresh perspectives on real-world policing, complementing the academic theories covered in the course.