Course components

How does teaching and assessment work?

The curriculum is delivered through a variety of methods including but not limited to:
- lectures and tutorials (both large groups and small)
- group work
- self-directed study and research
- studying via online activities
- structured practical role plays
The assessment structure adopts a mix of multiple choice and short answer exams, simulated policing practical assessments, short subject specific reports and physical skills testing.
Session 1 is completed online, with students undertaking lectures in their own time. In addition, students will be required to:
- attend a minimum of two online tutorials per week, from scheduled daytime and evening classes
- attend the NSW Police Academy in Goulburn and participate in an Intensive Residential School (4 days) - this will occur around Week 14
- attend a Local Police Command/station for one week to participate in a Field Placement experience - this will occur around Week 15
- commit a minimum of 24 hours of study per week - this includes online lectures and tutorials, independent study, discussion board interactions and completion of assessments
Session 2 is full-time, on campus at the NSW Police Academy in Goulburn employed on a temporary fixed term arrangement.
Sessions 3, 4 and 5 are completed part-time, online while working as a Probationary Constable.

What will my practical experience look like?

Students must be physically fit to cope with the rigours of training and operational policing before arriving at the NSW Police Academy.

While at the NSW Police Academy your physical fitness will be assessed continually.
For more information on the fitness assessments and physical fitness requirements during the course, visit our fitness page.

The Associate Degree in Policing Practice and all training at the NSW Police Academy, is focused on the practical application of the skills and knowledge that students develop to become modern policing professionals.

The Academy has a custom-built scenario village (which includes houses, hotels, shops, and a school) where students will learn to apply all their theory to real-life events that occur during police duties.