Police officers
Nothing beats a career here
Our Police Officers are our face and voice in the community. Every day they support victims, prevent crime and help keep people safe.
We’re looking for people who reflect the communities we serve, people who can bring diversity of experience, people who are willing to protect our streets.
Whatever your background, we'll give you the training, support and opportunities to build a rewarding career. From neighbourhood policing and investigations to specialist roles, there are many ways to develop your skills and make a difference.
Watch Neelam from our Community Engagement Unit share her experience of joining Merseyside Police.
Please note, to be eligible to apply for all police officer roles, applicants must hold a full manual UK driving licence at the time of application. We are unable to consider applications from candidates who do not meet this criteria.
Which Student Officer Entry Programme is Right for You?
A career with Merseyside Police offers challenge, variety and the opportunity to make a real difference every day. Whether you're looking for a practical route into policing, you want to earn a degree while you train, or aspire to become a detective, we have an entry programme designed to support your ambitions.
All our student officer programmes combine frontline policing with structured learning and support, helping you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to become a professional police officer.
Training is delivered in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and Merseyside Police, with support available throughout your journey, including:
- Dedicated coaching and mentoring
- One-to-one support and development reviews
- Classroom, online and workplace learning
- Protected learning time
- Opportunities to gain experience across different areas of policing
Whichever route you choose, you'll work towards the same goal of becoming a fully competent police officer. The difference is how you get there.
Which Entry Route Is Right for You?
|
Route |
Duration |
Qualification |
Best For |
|
PCEP |
2 years |
Professional police training |
Practical, frontline learning |
|
PCDA |
3 years |
BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice |
Candidates wanting a degree while they train |
|
DCEP |
2 years+ |
Detective training pathway |
Aspiring investigators and detectives |
Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP)
Best for: Practical learners who want hands-on experience.
The Police Constable Entry Programme is a two-year route focused on developing operational policing skills through classroom learning and frontline experience.
Key Features
- Two-year programme
- Frontline policing from an early stage
- Practical operational focus
- Coaching and mentoring throughout
Career Outcome: Become a fully operational Police Constable.
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA)
Best for: Candidates who want to earn a degree while working.
The Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship combines practical policing with academic study. You'll earn a salary from day one while working towards a fully funded degree.
Key Features
- Three-year apprenticeship
- Fully funded degree
- Salary from day one
- Protected study time
- Blended workplace and classroom learning
Career Outcome: Graduate with a degree and become a fully operational Police Constable.
Find out more about the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship
Detective Constable Entry Programme (DCEP)
Best for: Candidates interested in investigative policing.
The Detective Constable Entry Programme provides a direct route into detective work, developing the skills needed to investigate serious and complex crimes.
Key Features
- Specialist detective entry route
- Investigation-focused training
- Interviewing and evidence-gathering skills
- Exposure to serious and complex crime
- Structured pathway to detective accreditation
Career Outcome: Progress towards becoming an accredited Detective Constable.
Have You Got What It Takes?
Before applying, learn more about the skills, behaviours and standards expected of police officers.
Register Your Interest
Can't see a vacancy that suits you right now?
Register your interest and tell us about your skills, experience and career aspirations. We'll contact you when suitable opportunities become available.