Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the general academic entry requirements for the Associate Degree in Policing Practice?

There are many possible academic entry requirements, which you can find out about in the application pack available from the NSW Police Force or from Charles Sturt University.

Some of the suitable education requirements include a UAI of 66, a Trade Certificate, a Level 3 Certificate (over 21 years) or a Level 4 Certificate from TAFE, or relevant management experience.

Some candidates think that because police training is a university program it is not for them, but some of the best students have come from non-university backgrounds. Call CSU Admissions direct on (02) 6933 2121 or 1800 443 306 to find out whether you meet the requirements or require further study.
 

Q. How much does it cost to undertake the Associate Degree in Policing Practice at the NSW Police College?

General costs to consider when undertaking the Associate Degree in Police Practice (ADPP) include:

Tuition Fees
All students enrolled in the Associate Degree must pay a subject tuition fee which is calculated by a formula based on the number of subjects enrolled in each session. Fees can be paid UPFRONT at the commencement of each session or DEFERRED via the Commonwealth Government loans scheme FEE-HELP with repayments later made through the Australian Tax Office and attracting a loan fee for undergraduate students. You can change payment options at the start of each session.

Rates are $654 (upfront) or $784.80 (deferred) for each equivalent 8 point subject. Rates are as at 2008 and are reviewed each year.

Accommodations cost
On campus accommodation at the College in Goulburn is currently $100 per week (2006), which includes meals.

Off campus accommodation costs commence from approximately $70 per week/per person for a shared two bedroom flat plus food and bills (approximate total $130 per person), or full live-in board is approximately $125 per week.
 

Q. Are there scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for students who undertake the Associate Degree in Policing Practice. You may be eligible for a scholarship so make sure you include the scholarship form with your application.
 

Q. What does the course involve for undergraduate students?

Undergraduate students are required to complete an initial 13 weeks of full time study at the NSW Police College, Goulburn before an 80 hour police placement and 14 weeks full time study at the NSW Police College Goulburn. Should you be successful in gaining employment with the NSW Police Force, you will complete Sessions 3, 4 and 5 by distance education while working full-time as a Probationary Constable.

At the NSW Police College, students learn subjects such as sociology and psychology, and how they apply to policing. Other subjects covered include practical skills such as self defence, weapons handling and presenting evidence in simulated court settings. There is a strong emphasis on written and spoken communication skills in recognition of the strong need for such skills in today's professional force.
 

Q. Can I study the ADPP from home or on a part time basis?

It is possible to study the ADPP from home through the part time Distance Education pathway. Distance Education students are required to complete one year of study, which includes the completion of two 14 week distance education sessions of part time study, an 80 hour police placement and a 14 week full time study component at the NSW Police College, Goulburn prior to employment. 

By the commencement of the full time study component (Session 2) students must be able to demonstrate a fitness level that is approximately 80% of that required for the final fitness assessment.  Should you be successful in gaining employment with the NSW Police Force, you will complete Sessions 3, 4 and 5 by distance education while working full-time as a Probationary Constable.
 

Q. As a university graduate, will I receive any credit for studies I have already undertaken?

Students who have completed a degree closely related o the field of Policing may be eligible for some credit for the first session of study.  More information is available from CSU Admissions Office.
 

Q. What if I am not graduating but have started a university course?

If you're considering a career move to the NSW Police Force, you will need to undertake a NSW Police Force approved university program prior to employment. As an undergraduate, you must study the Associate Degree in Policing Practice (ADPP) either as a full-time on campus student, or by distance education on a part-time basis. If you have completed a degree course in a relative area, you may be eligible for advanced standing entry into the ADPP.
 

Q. When can I start?

The application process to commence the recruit education program - the Associate Degree in Policing Practice is a lengthy process. There are three intakes a year into the Associate Degree in Policing Practice - January, May and September. Offers to each program usually commence 3 months before session commences.  Due to limited vacancies, and the competitive nature of the process, all successful applications will be considered for these intakes, however an application should not give an expectation of subsequent employment. 
 

Q. How do I get more information?

Call 1800 222 122, e-mail recruiting@police.nsw.gov.au, or visit the Charles Sturt University website www.csu.edu.au/student/police/
 

Equal Opportunity Questions

Q. Is there a particular cultural group the NSW Police Force is recruiting?

The NSW Police Force's aim is to achieve an officer profile balanced in gender, ethnicity and age, which reflects the diversity of the NSW population.
 

Q. English is my second language, what level of proficiency is required?

It is in your best interest to ensure your language proficiency is at a high standard prior to applying for the Associate Degree in Policing Practice. A prospective police officer must be able to communicate clearly in a high-pressure situation, in face to face contact and over the telephone or police radio.

Q. How much will I earn as a police officer?

Starting salary is excellent and is approximately $ 50 000 in your first year as a probationary constable. (Base salary plus shift penalty rates).
 

Q. What are my career options once I join?

Before undertaking a wide range of career pathways within the NSW Police Force, police officers must undertake general duties in a police command for at least three years. 

After three years, you then have the opportunity to apply to work in a wide range of specialist sections within the NSW Police Force. These include positions such as Detective, Youth Liaison Officer or Community Safety Officers or specialist areas such as the Dog Squad, Mounties, Rescue, Crash Investigation and Forensics and other policing careers.
 

Q. What will I be doing first year out?

During your first year you will be performing general policing duties as a Probationary Constable. In that role you will be working with experienced police officers who will assist you in applying everything you've learned to real life policing situations. The range of situations you'll attend as a police officer may include domestic situations, motor vehicle accidents, armed robberies, stealing offences, serious assaults and many other community focused roles.
 

Q. How do I get more information?

Call 1800 222 122, e-mail recruiting@police.nsw.gov.au, or visit the Charles Sturt University website www.csu.edu.au/student/police/
 

Q. What are the physical requirements needed to become a police officer?

Prior to entering the Police College applicants should seek professional advice regarding the development of aerobic fitness, upper body strength, lower limb strength, handgrip strength, abdominal strength and flexibility.

You will be required to participate in a physical fitness assessment prior to receiving an offer in the Associate Degree in Policing Practice.  Information will be provided in your application kit.

All students will be re-tested during their enrolment in the Associate Degree of Policing Practice.
 

Q. What are the height and age requirements?

You must have reached at least 19 years of age before you can be employed as a police officer (you need to be 18.5 to start the Associate Degree in Policing Practice). There are no height or minimum weight restrictions. However, it is important to have general fitness and good health in order to cope with the demands of training and operational policing.

Click here for the 'Are You Fit?' brochure.
 

Q. How do I apply?

NSW Police Recruitment Branch or Charles Sturt University can provide you with an Application Kit, which contains all the information and application forms you need. In addition to satisfying some academic criteria, you must also complete a Professional Suitability Assessment as well as passing a medical and fitness assessment. Information regarding these assessments is contained in the Application Kit.
 

Q. How do I become a police officer?

All NSW Police recruits are required to complete a the NSW Police Force approved police education and training program. Currently, there are 3 training and education pathways.

The most popular is the two-year Associate Degree in Policing Practice offered by Charles Sturt University. www.csu.edu.au/student/police/