Diploma in Policing Studies & Security Studies

Course details

Course Titles:

• Diploma in Policing Studies
• Diploma in Policing Studies (Garda)
• Diploma in Policing Studies (Security)

Students in the above Diplomas attend the same class and lectures. However on completion of the course, students may submit a chosen assignment in any one of the above areas in order to be awarded that particular exit award title.

The Criminology Association of Ireland approves the Diploma in Policing & Security Studies.

Who should apply:

Those who are considering a career in An Garda Siochanna or other police forces and members of the Garda Reserve. Others working generally in the criminal justice system in Ireland. Those in other careers who are interested in modern policing studies.

Course Summary:

Delivered by leading academics and practitioners, the purpose of the Diploma in Policing Studies is to equip learners (from a variety of professional or interested backgrounds) with a basic understanding of entry level policing both in Ireland and abroad. Students will consider, the law and policing, criminal profiles and interviewing skills, to name but three. All lectures will be related to various theories of crime and offending. At the end of the course, learners will have a detailed understanding of how a modern police system operates from both a theoretical and practical perspective.

During this course the student will learn how to identify certain types of criminals and their likely behaviours. They will also learn about how to profile such criminals and how, once apprehended the law requires that they are treated. Students will be introduced to evidence based policing including, prevention, restorative justice and conflict resolution. Interrogation and investigative techniques will also be examined to give students the broadest possible understanding of this ever-changing environment.

outline

• Week 1 – Introduction to Modern Policing
• Week 2 – The Law and Police Powers and Procedures
• Week 3 – Profiling Criminals: Psychopathy
• Week 4 – Profiling Criminals: Homicide
• Week 5 – Profiling Criminals: Sex Offenders
• Week 6 – Alcohol and Youth in conflict with the law
• Week 7 – Community Policing and Conflict Resolution Skills
• Week 8 – Security Studies
• Week 9 – Interviewing suspects and victims
• Week 10 – Investigation procedures and techniques

Assessment

A pass grade on the written assignment will be required for awarding of the Diploma in Policing Studies. A fail grade will result in a Certificate of Attendance for the course but without the Diploma being awarded. Students must attend at least 8 of the 10 evenings to graduate with either the Diploma or Certificate of Attendance unless a serious and verifiable reason for further absence is provided. Similarly, the Project must be handed in on the due date unless a sound reason for lateness is provided. In such instances, an extension may be awarded at the discretion of the lecturer.