The Short Answer
If you do not have a degree, you take the PCDA (3 years, earn a degree). If you already have a degree, you take the DHEP (2 years, earn a diploma). Both pay the same starting salary in most forces.
PCDA (Apprenticeship)
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship.
- Who is it for? People without a degree.
- Duration: 3 Years.
- Qualification: BA (Hons) Professional Policing Practice.
- Cost: Free (Funded by force).
DHEP (Degree Holder)
Degree Holder Entry Programme.
- Who is it for? People who already hold a degree (in any subject).
- Duration: 2 Years.
- Qualification: Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing Practice.
- Cost: Free.
Can I choose?
Pay Comparison
Contrary to myth, the pay is usually identical.
| Year | PCDA Salary | DHEP Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | £29,907 | £29,907 |
| Year 2 | £31,061 | £31,061 |
| Year 3 | £32,236 | £32,236 |
Academic Workload
Both routes require serious study. You will have 'Protected Learning Time' (PLT) – usually 20% of your time (e.g. 1 day a week or block weeks) to focus on university work.
PCDA Pressure
Lower intensity, spread over 3 years. Good for those who haven't studied in a while.
DHEP Pressure
High intensity. You are doing a similar volume of learning in 2 years. Assuming you know how to write academic essays already.
What to do next
- Dig out your exam certificates (GCSEs/A-Levels/Degree).
- If you lost them, apply for replacements NOW (it takes weeks).
- Decide if you are ready for 2-3 years of further study.
Early-Career Earnings Explorer
Compare your take-home pay on both routes.
Recruitment Timeline Planner
See when the next intakes are.
Explore Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get paid less on the PCDA route?
No. The starting salary is usually identical (Pay Point 1, circa £29,907). Some forces pay PCDA slightly less for the first 6 months, but they quickly align.
Is the degree free?
Yes. The BA (Hons) in Professional Policing Practice is fully funded by the force. You do not pay tuition fees.
Is DHEP harder than PCDA?
DHEP is more intense because you are cramming the learning into 2 years instead of 3. You are also expected to have higher academic writing skills from day one.
Do I have to go to university?
Yes, but not full-time. You will have 'protected learning time' (e.g., 20% of your shifts) to attend lectures or complete assignments, either at a uni campus or force training centre.
Can I choose which route I do?
It depends on your qualifications. If you have a degree, you MUST do DHEP. If you don't, you MUST do PCDA. You cannot choose PCDA if you already have a degree (funding rules).
What is PPL?
PPL (Police Constable Entry Programme) is the new non-degree route. It is similar to the old IPLDP. No degree is awarded at the end. Not all forces offer it yet.
Do I have to write a dissertation?
Yes, for the PCDA route you will complete a final year project/dissertation. DHEP students also complete a significant research project.
Can I leave the police as soon as I get the degree?
Technically yes, there is no 'return of service' tie-in currently, although this is debated regularly.
Independence Statement: Police Pay UK is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with any police force or the College of Policing. Official policies can change; always verify with your chosen force's recruitment team.
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