|
Police College of Finland > Training > Diploma in Police Studies
|
||||
Contact information
| Diploma in Police Studies
Those who successfully complete the Diploma in Police Studies are eligible for the posts of Senior Constable, Senior Detective Constable and Detective. » Structure of the Diploma in Police Studies programme (pdf file, 42 KB) Basic studies The basic studies include seven classroom training periods, each lasting six weeks, and a period of supervised work practice. Each of the seven periods has its own theme, for example ‘basics of criminal investigation’ or ‘field and emergency duties’.
Supervised work practice During the period of supervised work practice, which lasts about seven months, the student performs ordinary police duties under the supervision of an instructor. This supervised work practice takes place at a district police department selected by the Police College of Finland. For the duration of the supervised work practice the student works as a temporary Constable. The aim of the supervised work practice is that students learn to perform ordinary police duties, to work in an ethically appropriate manner and to internalize the values of the Finnish police force. The classroom training and the supervised work practice will together equip students with the basic vocational skills required of a police officer and will provide a sound basis for moving on to the advanced vocational studies Advanced vocational studies The advanced vocational studies incorporate two classroom training periods at the Police College of Finland plus a fieldwork period of about 6 - 7½ months and a study paper. The advanced vocational studies are designed to deepen the skills and basic understanding of police work acquired during the basic studies and the supervised work practice. The aim is that students learn how to work independently, understand the importance of continuous professional development and are able to acquire a wide range of different information as necessary from various sources. Fieldwork period The fieldwork period forms part of the advanced vocational studies and is undertaken at a district police department or a national police unit, as directed by the Police College of Finland. During the fieldwork period students also complete a number of distance learning assignments. The fieldwork period lasts 6 - 7½ months and the aim is that the student (as a temporary Constable) learns how to work independently and understands the importance of continuous professional development. Study paperThe study paper forms part of the advanced vocational studies and is a written presentation on a police-related subject. The study paper may also include audiovisual material. The study paper allows students to demonstrate that they are able to combine theory and practice, i.e. to make use of both research information and experience, and to solve problems.
 Back | Print page
| |||
The Diploma in Police Studies programme consists of basic studies and advanced vocational studies. These studies also include two work practice periods and a study paper. The full extent of the Diploma is 165 credit points and it takes about two and a half years to complete.
The aim of the classroom training periods is to equip students with the necessary basic vocational skills and know-how. After this, students will be able to put their knowledge and skills into effect during the period of supervised work practice. 
