Bursary scheme 2024 – applications now open

Applications are open for the 2024 College of Policing bursary scheme, which offers people in policing up to £4,000 for higher education study. Research resulting from these studies could be used to shape the future standards and guidance of policing.

Andy Marsh, CEO of the College of Policing, said:

I’m delighted to announce the launch of our ninth College of Policing bursary scheme, which offers support to officers and staff for further learning.

We know that many would like to increase their knowledge through additional study but are concerned about the time and costs involved. The bursary’s financial assistance and university’s flexible approach to learning can help overcome these challenges.

The College is committed to supporting officers and staff at all ranks in their professional development and we welcome applications regardless of role, rank, grade or existing qualifications. In the past people awarded the bursary have ranged from those who have not studied since school to people who are working towards PhDs.

The bursary supports officers and staff to gain a qualification which will help in their future progression, but it also allows them the opportunity to shape the standards and guidance of policing through their research.

Andy Marsh, CEO

Past recipients

Bursaries are awarded to reflect ranks and roles broadly in line with the makeup of the police service. 520 police officers and staff from 46 forces have been offered bursary funding since the scheme began in 2016. 

Past awards went to those studying across a range of higher education institutions in the UK, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, in areas including policing, criminology, cybercrime, leadership and vulnerability.

Last year, the College bursary scheme saw funding awarded to 80 students – 56% of whom were constables and sergeants – with 27% awardees being members of police staff.

• Read about past recipients of the bursary.

How to apply

You can apply to the bursary scheme if you are:

• a police officer working in England and Wales
• a member of police staff working in England and Wales
• a National Crime Agency (NCA) member of staff

Bursary money can be used to fund academic study at Level 6 and above. This covers undergraduate and postgraduate level qualifications, such as bachelor's and master's degrees, postgraduate diplomas and doctorates.

You don't need any previous learning qualifications to apply and some course providers offer credits for prior experience and learning. 

The course needs to be with a recognised UK academic institution and include a research component. 

To apply for a College bursary, you need to complete an application form. We also encourage applicants to complete an equal opportunities monitoring form.

These forms should be returned to bursaryscheme@college.police.uk by 11:59pm on Thursday 4 April.

• About the bursary scheme
• Find out how to apply and download an application form

Start your application