page www.csu.edu.au/student/police INTRODUCTION This guide will assist you in applying for entry into the Associate Degree in Policing Practice at Charles Sturt University. SECTION : Introduction to the Associate Degree in Policing Practice Page 2 SECTION 2: How to use this guide Page 6 SECTION 3: Application process Page 7 Application process – flow chart Page 8 Step – Application Form Page 9 Step 2 – Academic Eligibility Advice from Charles Sturt University Page Step 3 – Professional Suitability Advice from the NSW Police Force Page 5 Step 4 – Scholarship Information Page 7 Step 5 – Assessment Day (Fitness and Psychometric Testing) Page 18 Step 6 – Eligibility Pool Page 9 Step 7 – Receive and Accept CSU Offer Page 9 SECTION 4: Course structure Page 20 SECTION 5: Frequently Asked Questions Page 24 Information in this Guide is correct as at May 2008. www.csu.edu.au/student/police
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IntroductIonthis guide will assist you in applying for entry into the Associate degree in Policing Practice at charles Sturt university.
SEctIon �:
Introduction to the Associate Degree in Policing Practice Page 2
SEctIon 2:
How to use this guide Page 6
SEctIon 3:
Application process Page 7
Application process – flow chart Page 8
Step � – Application Form Page 9
Step 2 – Academic Eligibility Advice from charles Sturt university Page ��
Step 3 – Professional Suitability Advice from the nSW Police Force Page �5
Step 4 – Scholarship Information Page �7
Step 5 – Assessment Day (Fitness and Psychometric Testing) Page 18
Step 6 – Eligibility Pool Page �9
Step 7 – receive and Accept cSu offer Page �9
SEctIon 4:
Course structure Page 20
SEctIon 5:
Frequently Asked Questions Page 24
Information in this Guide is correct as at May 2008. ww
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INTRODUCTION TO THE ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN POLICING PRACTICECharles Sturt Universitycharles Sturt university (cSu) is a university that strives to ensure its graduates are competitive in meeting present and changing needs of society, commerce and industry. the combination of our outstanding graduate employment record, state-of-the-art resources and quality teaching has resulted in a university with an international reputation for excellence.
We offer over 500 courses to over 40,000 students through on campus and distance education study. Many courses include practical components and industry collaboration in developing curriculum, giving graduates a head start in the employment market.
cSu’s campuses are located at Albury-Wodonga, Bathurst, canberra, dubbo, Goulburn, orange, Parramatta and Wagga Wagga, with specialist centres at Broken Hill and Manly, and Study centres located in Melbourne and Sydney.
As one of the largest distance education providers in Australia, cSu utilises the latest technology in course delivery with thousands of students studying from their home or workplace. cSu also operates one of the busiest mainstream web servers in Australia, receiving millions of inquiries to our homepage each year from students studying all over the world.
our website acts as a gateway to online supported subjects, resources and communication forums that greatly enhance student learning experiences. Visit our homepage at: www.csu.edu.au
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Beginning a Policing Career at Charles Sturt UniversitycSu is the major provider of police education at tertiary level in Australia. currently more than 5,000 students are enrolled in its policing programs. they are studying a wide range of programs including recruit level studies, specialist programs in intelligence and investigations, terrorism and security and related disciplines.
the nSW Police Force and cSu have formed a unique partnership to design, develop and deliver tertiary courses in policing. the partnership is an important strategy in the development of ethical and professional police officers in a rapidly changing police and community environment. The resources of both a large residential police college and a responsive and progressive university have been brought together to provide a balanced, innovative service in policing education.
Subjects have been designed in extensive consultation with police, the justice community and academics. this ensures they are vocationally relevant and up-to-date with the latest issues, providing an emphasis on developing ethical and professional graduates for a rapidly changing police and community environment.
cSu provides two pathways for students seeking to begin a career in policing:
• Bachelor of Justice Studies (Policing), or
• Associate degree in Policing Practice
Students who have recently completed their high school certificate usually expect to undertake the Bachelor of Justice Studies (Policing) course. For information about this course please contact info.csu on 1800 443 306 for a brochure or visit: www.csu.edu.au/courses/undergraduate/justice_policing
the Associate degree in Policing Practice is designed to meet the educational needs of entry-level police officers. It focuses on the foundation studies and applied skills necessary for the modern policing profession. the Associate degree is offered under an agreement between cSu and the nSW Police Force to provide recruit education.
the nSW Police Force recruitment policy requires that applicants must be at least �9 years of age at the time of employment with the nSW Police Force (i.e. at the completion of Session 2).
those seeking recruitment must also meet the nSW Police Force Professional Suitability requirements. these include having a good driving record and current motor vehicle licence, as well as meeting integrity, physical fitness, medical, citizenship or permanent residency requirements. Details of these requirements are available with course application forms from nSW Police recruitment, phone 1800 222 122, or visit www.police.nsw.gov.au
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Associate Degree in Policing PracticeEnrolment through: Goulburn campus
Study mode: Full-time on campus or part-time distance education
Normal course duration: On campus for session 1. Duration: 1 ⅔ years (five trimesters) distance education for session � (�a and �b). duration: 2 years (six trimesters)
note: Session 2 is always studied on campus at nSW Police college, Goulburn. Sessions 3, 4 and 5 involve field-based education and are studied in distance education mode whilst employed as a Probationary constable.
Applications for this course should be made directly to the CSU Admissions Office. More information on completing an application form can be found on page 9 of this booklet. Entry to the AdPP is competitive and subject to the needs and priorities of the nSW Police Force at any given time.
Where it will take you – career opportunitiesThe first three years of your police career will normally be spent performing general duties at a Local Area Command (LAC), assigned on an elected preference basis, subject to the needs of the NSW Police Force. The commencing salary for a Probationary Constable is approximately AUD$50,000 (2008).
Students who successfully complete the first phase of study are eligible to apply for employment with the nSW Police Force as Probationary constables. to be eligible for employment you must also satisfy the professional suitability requirements of the nSW Police Force. Further information regarding professional suitability can be obtained by contacting NSW Police Recruitment on 1800 222 122 or visiting: www.police.nsw.gov.au
Policing provides a number of career paths including community policing, investigations, intelligence, specialist and technical operations, and leadership and management. cSu offers a number of courses designed to support policing career development. these are closely aligned with industry needs and articulated with internal police training programs.
After successfully completing the first two sessions of the Associate Degree in Policing Practice, you will attest and be employed as a Probationary constable with the nSW Police Force.
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Entry pathways to the Associate degreethere are four pathways for entry into the Associate degree:
• Full-time on campus – Sessions � and 2 will be studied on campus at nSW Police college, Goulburn
• Mixed mode – combines two sessions of distance education (home-based) study (Session �a and �b), then distance education students join full-time on campus students for Session 2 at the nSW Police college, Goulburn
• the Bachelor of Justice Studies (Policing) – full-time study at cSu Bathurst for two years, including residential schools at the nSW Police college, then the Bachelor of Justice Studies (Policing) students join full-time on campus students for Session 2 at the nSW Police college, Goulburn
• rcc (recognition of current competency) i.e. prior policing experience – direct entry into Session 2 at the nSW Police college, Goulburn
About the courseThe course integrates field-based education with classroom and distance education study. Classes are scheduled Monday through Friday and full-time students should expect to be on campus from Monday morning until Friday afternoon. Some weekend activities may also be required.
Face-to-face teaching hours for full-time students are equivalent to full-time study within the university sector.
To graduate, students must satisfactorily complete 128 subject points made up from 18 individual subjects. Unless otherwise noted, each subject is worth 8 points.
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HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
You have received the Associate degree in Policing Practice Inquiry Pack.
Please check that the following information has been included in the Inquiry Pack:
• Policing: Course Description booklet
• Application for Admission form (green)
• Authority document (yellow)
• Acknowledgement of receipt of Application card (blue)
• contacts card
PLEASE READ ALL THE INFORMATION IN THIS INQUIRY PACK. THIS GUIDE HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE MORE DETAILED EXPLANATORY INFORMATION AVAILABLE ON THE CSU WEBSITE: www.csu.edu.au/student/police
To be eligible for entry to the Associate Degree in Policing Practice, applicants must satisfy two major criteria:
�. Academic Selection criteria, determined by the university (see Step 2 - page ��)
2. Professional Suitability criteria, determined by the nSW Police Force (see Step 3 - page �5)
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APPLICATION PROCESS
Step 1 provides information on completing your application
Step 2 details the academic eligibility requirements for entry into the course
Step 3 provides information on the professional suitability assessment by the nSW Police Force
Step 4 explains the criteria for scholarship awards
Step 5 provides information on the fitness/psychometric assessment process
Step 6 provides information on the eligibility pool
Step 7 explains the importance of accepting the offer
The flow chart following illustrates how the application and assessment process works. Most importantly, you should be aware that the demand for places is extremely high and very competitive. In addition it can take some time for both the university and the nSW Police Force to process each application, so submit your application as soon as possible.
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APPLICATION PROCESS
Step 1 – Application Formcomplete your Application for Admission form (enclosed in this pack) and send to
Charles Sturt University Admissions Office.
Step 2 – Academic EligibilitycSu will assess your academic eligibility and send you a letter advising of your
academic eligibility status.
Academically IneligibleIf you are academically ineligible, you will be
provided with advice on what courses you can undertake to become academically eligible.
Step 3 – Professional SuitabilityThe Professional Suitability Kit contains two booklets that you are required to complete. The first is a
red booklet – ‘Medical History Assessment’ and the second is a blue booklet – ‘Professional Suitability Application Kit’. You will need to complete both booklets and return these to the nSW Police Force
recruitment Branch. the nSW Police Force will notify you and cSu of the results of the Professional Suitability and Medical History Assessment.
(these booklets will be provided in an electronic format on the nSW Police Force website)
Step 4 – Scholarship Informationthe Scholarship Application Form is available electronically for you to download from the cSu website
or cSu can send you a copy. Please complete this form and return it to cSu for consideration.
Step 5 – Assessment Day (Fitness and Psychometric Testing) You will be required to undertake fitness and psychometric testing. Further information is available on the nSW Police Force website.
Step 7 – Receive and Accept CSU OfferBased on this information cSu may offer you a position in the course.
You may receive an offer from cSu which will outline the commencement date. At the time you are made an offer, you will also be notified if you have received a scholarship.
You will need to accept and enrol in the course. cSu and the nSW Police Force will then provide you with login details and relevant pre-course reading material.
Step 6 – Eligibility Poolonce the stages of application have been successfully completed you will be placed in a
pool of eligible applicants and ranked in order of merit.
Academically EligibleIf you are academically eligible, you will need to complete a Professional Suitability Assessment Kit, which is available in an electronic format or
can be posted to you. once completed, please return to the nSW Police
Force recruitment Branch for assessment.
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Step 1 – Application Form
Application InstructionsIt is important that you are completely truthful when completing your Application for Admission. Information provided by you, which is later found to be false or misleading, may adversely affect your continued enrolment in the course and your prospect of employment with the nSW Police Force. If there is a change to any information that you have provided, it is your responsibility to advise the University Admissions Office.
It is recommended that your application be submitted to the University Admissions Office as soon as possible.
Application for Admission to Charles Sturt University�. Please read ALL of the information provided in this Application Pack.
2. Please enclose verified copies of academic transcripts and supporting documents with your Application for Admission form. Please see page �0 for information on academic transcripts and how you can have your documents verified.
3. When completing SECTION 3 of the Application for Admission form, you need to put the course code for your preferred mode of study.
they are:
Full-time on campus: Course code: KAPP
Part-time distance education: Course code: EADP
Recognition of Current Competency: Course code: KAPP
Please note: in some cases, a mode of study that is not your preferred mode may be offered to you. If you decline this offer you will still be eligible to be considered for future intakes.
4. Ensure you answer all the relevant sections of the Application for Admission form.
• Applicants applying for rcc entry should also complete SECTION 15 of the Application for Admission form and provide a detailed resumé and certified copies of previous study transcripts and awards (see page �0).
• Please note in SECTION 2: applications to the Associate degree in Policing Practice are accepted and assessed on a continuous basis. closing dates are provided as a guide only.
5. Send the completed form and supporting documentation to:
TheAdmissionsOffice Charles Sturt University Locked Bag 676 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678
Based on the information supplied in your Application for Admission, charles Sturt university will assess your academic eligibility to be admitted to the course.
You will be notified of the outcome of this assessment in writing.
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AcademictranscriptsandgettingyourdocumentsverifiedAcademic transcriptsYou must provide an official transcript of your academic record of any previous study. The transcript must be correctly verified and show: • the title of the course/s undertaken • all subjects taken • grades obtained (including failures) • stage reached or qualification gained and title of award.
A collection of examination result slips is not acceptable.
You will need to send verified copies of your documents with your application for admission, as charles Sturt university does not return documents. Incorrectlyverifieddocumentswilldelayyourapplication.
Who can verify your copies?Anyone who is currently employed as:• a Justice of the Peace (JP) with a registration number• an accountant; member of the Institute of chartered Accountants in Australia, or the Australian
Society of Certified Practising Accountants, or the National Institute of Accountants or the Association of taxation and Management Accountants or registered tax agents
• a bank manager or credit union branch manager• a barrister, solicitor or patent attorney• a police officer in charge of a police station, or of the rank of sergeant and above• a postal manager• a principal of an Australian secondary college, high school, primary school or tAFE college• the records department of the institution that originally issued the official document/s.
Howshouldthedocumentsbeverified?the person must:• write “this is a true copy of the original document sighted by me”• sign, and print the following details:nameaddresscontact telephone numberprofession or occupation or organisationdate verified
• include the official stamp or seal of the verifier’s organisation on the copy if the organisation has such a stamp.
notE: a Justice of the Peace must also print their registration number and the state in which they are registered as a Justice of the Peace.
Charles Sturt University is not permitted to process documents:• verified by a Justice of the Peace without a registration number• that are just photocopies, that is, not verified• that have not been correctly verified• that have been verified by an immediate relative or a person residing at the same address
as an applicant.
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Step 2 – Academic Eligibility
Academic Selection Criteria: Full-time on campus and distance education entryto be academically eligible you must have successfully completed any one of the following criteria:
Under 21 21 and overtertiary Studies – a minimum of 2 subjects tertiary Studies – a minimum of 2 subjects
TAFE – a minimum of Certificate IV TAFE – a minimum of Certificate III
Trade Certificate (certificate of proficiency) Trade Certificate (certificate of proficiency)
tertiary Preparation Program: - university � year (FtE) - tAFE �65 - �99
tertiary Preparation Program: - university � year (FtE) - tAFE �65 - �99
UAI ≥ 66 UAI ≥ 66
Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) ≥ 152 * Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) ≥ 152 *
Bridging Program Bridging Program
cSu Koori Admissions Program cSu Koori Admissions Program
Relevant Work Experience ** Relevant Work Experience **
* If submitting a STAT result please also submit a comprehensive resumé.
** relevant and SIGnIFIcAnt management and administrative experience is considered on a case-by-case basis by assessing documented attainments and experience of applicants. For further information please contact info.csu on 1800 443 306.
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Academic Selection Criteria: Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) EntryApproved applicants will receive advanced standing for Session � of the Associate degree in Policing Practice.
Students applying for recognition of current competency (rcc) entry must have completed of one of the following:
a) a three-year university undergraduate degree or diploma in a discipline directly related to policing
b) Applicants with a minimum of one year’s previous policing experience (not including probation) in a recognised jurisdiction may elect to be considered for entry with advanced standing (or rcc) status. All such applicants should submit a resumé detailing service history including duration of service, experience and qualifications gained.
notes:
• If not already undertaken, you may have to complete an 80-hour police placement prior to the commencement of Session 2
• depending on an applicant’s previous policing work experience, academic studies and period of time since last employed as a police officer, an applicant may be required to undertake supplementary subjects in addition to those in Session 2
• All successful rcc applicants will receive, in addition to a weekly Accommodation Scholarship (Aud$�00 per week), a guaranteed minimum Aud$�,760 scholarship. A Higher Value Scholarship of AUD$4,000 or AUD$6,000 per session can also be applied for on the basis of demonstrated financial need, however there are only a limited number available and these are awarded in competition with full-time applicants.
If you do not think you are academically eligible:contacts for more information include:
• CSU info.csu, telephone: 1800 443 306 OR www.csu.edu.au/study/inquiry
or
• ring your local tAFE or nSW tAFE Information centre, telephone: �3� 60� or www.tafe.nsw.edu.au
• For information regarding Special tertiary Admissions test (StAt) contact universities Admissions centre (uAc), telephone: 02 9752 0200 or www.uac.edu.au or your interstate universities Admissions centre.
You should also be aware that these are examples only of the minimum academic entry requirements.
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English Proficiency RequirementsIfEnglishisnotyourfirstlanguage,youwillneedtoprovidedocumentaryevidenceofyourproficiencyintheEnglishlanguage.
Applicants will be deemed to have sufficient English proficiency if they:
a) have completed all their formal studies in one or more of the following countries
or
were born in one of the following countries and have completed at least one qualification in one of those countries or
have completed senior secondary study or at least one year of full-time university study in one of the following countries:
Australia Ireland South Africa Papua new Guinea
canada Singapore Kenya American Samoa
united Kingdom new Zealand Fiji Solomon Islands
uSA Zambia
b) have successfully completed one year of full-time (or part-time equivalent) post-secondary study at an affiliate institution of CSU, with English as the medium of instruction and assessment.
As a prospective police officer, you must be able to communicate clearly in pressure situations, in face-to-face contact, over the telephone or police radio. You must be able to comprehend information provided and adequately impart information so others understand it.
The qualifications below, at the standard specified, shall be regarded as evidence of proficiency in the English language:
• Completion of an AQF Certificate IV (including English for Academic Purposes)
• An academic International English Language Testing System (IELTS) overall score of 7.0
• Successful completion of at least one year of study in a course at Associate diploma or Associate degree level on the register of Australian tertiary Education
• A score of �55 in the verbal component of the Special tertiary Admissions test (StAt)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - paper-based score of 550 with a minimum of 5.0 in the test for written English
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - computer-based score of 213 and Essay rating of 5
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Internet-based score of 80 for undergraduate with a minimum score of 25 in the writing section
• Combined Universities Language Test (CULT) - overall score of 65
• completion of the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma with English A2 at higher or sub. level
• Completion of the University of New South Wales Foundation Studies (UNSWFS) Certificate with a c pass in ‘use of English’
• Proficiency Test from the NSW Adult Migrant English Service (AMES) will be accepted with a score of 3 plus or better in each of the four macroskills categories of the International Second Language Proficiency Rating (ISLPR).
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General literacyThe NSW Police Force must be satisfied that all successful applicants have the capacity to perform the inherent requirements of the full range of operational policing duties. All students are required to complete literacy testing which aims to measure a student’s ability to:
• Write statements, prepare forms and correspondence
• read and comprehend written communication
• take notes and prepare comprehensible written reports
• organise and analyse information.
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Step 3 – Professional Suitability
the nSW Police Force will conduct a number of background checks on each applicant who progresses beyond the initial academic assessment stage. the following provides an outline of the types of background checks conducted and should assist you in making a personal assessment of your own suitability prior to lodging an application with charles Sturt university.
(Please note: complete details are contained in the Professional Suitability Assessment Kit you receive once you have been deemed academically suitable by charles Sturt university).
You must read the following information.
What is Professional Suitability Assessment (PSA)?
Professional Suitability Assessment (PSA) is the applicant screening process undertaken by the nSW Police Force and involves numerous inquiries locally, nationally and, if necessary, internationally. Applicants’ past employers will be consulted and a range of systems interrogated so that a thorough analysis of your background is conducted.
the PSA is used by the nSW Police Force to determine if an applicant meets the requirements to be employed as a police officer.
Whilst a satisfactory professional suitability assessment may assist entry into the Associate degree, it should not be construed as a guarantee of future employment as a police officer. Positions within the nSW Police Force are competitive and based on comparative applicant assessment and the nSW Police Force’s human resource needs.
Professional Suitability Assessment by the NSW Police ForceA step-by-step guide to completing the form.the nSW Police Force Professional Suitability Assessment Kit may take anywhere between 4 - �0 weeks to process, once you have submitted it to the nSW Police Force recruitment Branch, therefore you should submit your completed Professional Suitability Assessment as soon as possible.
�. read the Instructions and Important Information carefully and follow the checklist provided on the back of the Professional Suitability Assessment Kit.
2. Please complete the forms contained in the Kit.
3. Send the completed forms and supporting documentation to: NSW Police Force Recruitment Branch Police Headquarters Locked Bag 5102 PARRAMATTA NSW 2124
4. NSW POLICE FORCE RECRUITMENT BRANCH WILL WRITE TO YOU and let you know whether your application has met all the Professional Suitability requirements. they will also notify charles Sturt university, so there is no need for you to contact the university.
Entry into the Associate degree in Policing Practice is competitive. As such, successful clearance of your Professional Suitability application does not necessarily guarantee you a position in the course. If you have not received an offer within �2 months of passing your Professional Suitability Assessment, you may be asked to submit a new assessment with the nSW Police Force, or sign a statutory declaration detailing recent events.
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components of Professional Suitability Assessment
the PSA includes, but is not limited to, the following assessments:
• AGE - must be at least 18.5 years of age to submit an application.
• CITIZENSHIP - must be an Australian citizen or have permanent Australian residency status.
• DRIVER’S LICENCE - must possess a current full motor vehicle driver’s licence or a Green Provisional Licence (Green ‘P’ NSW) or equivalent.
• drIVEr BEHAVIour - an assessment is made of your driving experience, offences committed, seriousness of such offences and recency. As a general guide only, a ratio of not more than one offence per two driving years is expected, but this is not assessed in isolation. It is also expected that applicants would not have committed a driving offence within the preceding �2 months of the application period.
• CRIMINAL OR RELATED HISTORY - If you have prior criminal convictions or have come under adverse notice, you may not be suitable for police employment. Adult criminal convictions will deem you unsuitable.
this is certainly the case if you have:
• any criminal charge by conviction
• a record for a serious offence as an adult (e.g. assault, break and enter, shoplifting, motor vehicle theft, drugs)
• an Apprehended Violence order (AVo) which is current, enforceable or less than �0 years old (unless revoked)
• serious traffic matters such as drink-driving offences (PCA or DUI)
• juvenile offences
• adult convictions for street offences (e.g. offensive language or behaviour like urinating in a public place).
• DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING – the NSW Police Force does not tolerate the use of prohibited drugs by any employee/student or applicant for employment. It is a requirement of the professional suitability application process for applicants to consent to undergo urine screening for the presence of prohibited drugs.
Applicants are likely to be drug and alcohol tested while students of the Associate degree in Policing Practice at the nSW Police college. A positive result on testing will lead to rejection of the applicant or student from the Associate degree in Policing Practice.
• MEDICAL FITNESS - In undertaking an assessment of medical fitness you will be required to organise an appointment with a medical practitioner. Medical staff will explore relevant issues such as a history of asthma, epilepsy, psychiatric illness, severe trauma to the head or body or other history or impairment that may present a risk to yourself or others.
notE: For the purpose of professional suitability assessment you must provide medical history information through a medical declaration and submissions from treating practitioners in some of the following assessable areas: a. Hearing, b. Visual acuity, c. colour vision, d. Body mass and waist measurements, e. Hepatitis B.
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Step 4 – Scholarship Information
A Scholarship details table that outlines details and current values of the scholarships is available on the cSu website www.csu.edu.au/student/police. Scholarship values are subject to funding and will be confirmed at the same time an offer of admission is made. Scholarships for students with completed tertiary qualifications and/or recognition of current competency are estimates only.
Full-time on campusAn Accommodation Scholarship (Aud$�00 per week) is currently provided to everyone who studies the Associate degree in Police Practice full-time on campus.
If you wish to be considered for higher value scholarship you will need to complete the Scholarship Application Form which is included in the information cSu will post to you once your initial application has been processed.
Please note that receipt of a scholarship application form does not automatically indicate that the recipient will receive an offer of admission. Please be aware that approximately 60% of full-time on campus applicants receive a scholarship. Higher Value Scholarships may be awarded to applicants who, due to personal financial circumstances, would otherwise not be able to do the course.
costs of studying for prospective Associate degree in Policing Practice studentsBefore accepting an offer, you should give careful consideration to your financial situation. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in a position to complete your study at the nSW Police college. If you undertake the course without adequate financial support, you may need to withdraw at a later date. In such a case, you would be responsible for any costs incurred during your incomplete period of study at the NSW Police College. In order to determine your financial capacity to undertake the ADPP, please refer to the detailed information available on the cSu website www.csu.edu.au/student/police
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Step 5 – Assessment Day (Fitness and Psychometric Testing)
Physical testing informationonce an applicant has satisfactorily met the minimum academic and professional suitability requirements for entry into the AdPP, they will be invited to attend an Assessment day (Fitness and Psychometric Testing). Upon receipt of an invitation, applicants should confirm attendance by returning paperwork to the nSW Police Force recruitment Branch as soon as possible.
GENERAL PHYSICAL FITNESS – the NSW Police Force must be satisfied that all successful applicants have the capacity to undertake the physical components of the Associate degree in Policing Practice and, following training, be capable of performing the inherent requirements of the full range of operational policing duties.
Fitness assessments will include:
• aerobic fitness
• upper body strength
• lower limb strength
• handgrip strength
• abdominal strength
• flexibility – in particular hamstring/lower back.
Applicants are strongly advised to immediately commence a regular exercise program that will ensure they meet the fitness requirements needed to undertake the Associate Degree in Policing Practice and be employed by the nSW Police Force.
Pass markIn order to meet minimum requirements as a Probationary constable, you must pass every test and achieve 44 points out of a possible ��0. Please note, that prior to attestation you are required to achieve 55 points out of ��0.
When you attend the fitness testing the following areas will be assessed:
test �: Handgrip Strength
test 2: Sit and reach
test 3: Vertical Jump
test 4: Abdominal Strength
test 5: Push-ups
test 6: Illinois Agility test
test 7: 40 Metre Sprint
Test 8: Multi Stage Fitness
For detailed information on each exercise please refer to the website: www.police.nsw.gov.au
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Step 6 – Eligibility Pool
charles Sturt university uses a list of Academic Selection criteria to rank applicants for entry into the Associate degree in Policing Practice. Entry to the course is competitive and your individual ranking will be based on your suitability for the police profession and academic criteria.
the ranking may determine how quickly you gain admission to the course, as offers of admission to the Associate degree in Policing Practice will be made to the most competitive applicants from each group.
Step 7 – Receive and Accept CSU Offer
You will need to accept and enrol in the course.
offer process once an applicant has satisfactorily passed physical testing, the application will be considered on a competitive basis for offer to the next available AdPP intake. Both academic and professional suitability results are considered when identifying potentially suitable applicants.
depending on nSW Police Force needs, charles Sturt university will make a number of offers to applicants, inviting them to enrol in the Associate degree in Policing Practice.
When returning the offer forms on acceptance to the course, the course code required is ��05PP.
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SEctIon 4
COURSE STRUCTURE
Session � may be studied full-time on campus at the nSW Police college, Goulburn, or part-time over two sessions by distance education (dE).
Students from both the full-time and part-time cohorts will undertake Session 2 full-time on campus at Goulburn. All students complete Sessions 3, 4 and 5 by dE while employed as a Probationary constable with the NSW Police Force, and include field-based learning.
Students electing to study part-time by distance education complete Sessions �a and �b of the course off campus, and will need to attend compulsory residential schools. Part-time dE students are provided with a mail package, which may include printed materials, audio and videotapes, computer disks and cd-roMs as well as a host of online support functions to enable them to study at home.
The ADPP consists of five full-time trimesters as detailed below:
course structure – full-time on campus/mixed modeStudents electing to study in the full-time mode undertake Sessions � and 2 on campus at the nSW Police College, Goulburn. Sessions 3, 4 and 5 involve field-based education and are studied in the distance education mode whilst employed as a Probationary constable.
Session 1 (13 weeks on campus at the NSW Police College, Goulburn and twoweeksfieldexperienceplacement)
PPP105 Investigation and Communication in Policing 2 8
PPP106 Simulated Policing (Acquiring Confidence) and operational Safety and tactics 2 4
Following the completion of session 1a and 1b students will join Session 2 full-time on campus students. Session 2 (14 weeks on campus at the NSW Police College, Goulburn)
Session 3 (14 weeks distance education whilst working at a Local Area Command)
PPP231 Session 3 Policing Practice 8
PPP232 Police as Investigators 3 8
Session 4 (14 weeks distance education whilst working at a Local Area Command)
PPP241 Session 4 Policing Practice 8
PPP242 Problem Oriented Policing and Vulnerable People 8
Session 5 (14 weeks distance education whilst working at a Local Area Command)
PPP251 Session 5 Policing Practice 8
PPP252 Ethical Values and Leadership 8
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What you should know about studying by dEcSu is one of Australia’s largest providers of distance education (dE) and has the technology, support and services to ensure your study experience is positive and successful.
How does it work?
Instead of attending on campus lectures and tutorials, you are provided with a mail package, which may include printed materials, audio and videotapes, computer disks and cd-roMs as well as a host of online support functions to enable you to study at home. All dE subjects are supported online to enable you to check your grades, order a library book, email your lecturer, chat online with other students and submit assignments.
What should you know about studying the Associate Degree in Policing Practice by DE?
• Part-time study: as a part-time student, you study the two sessions (Session �a and �b) of the course over an eight-month period, based at home, without having to resign from your job.
• Support: you will receive subject materials and teaching aids to assist with study.
• tutors and lecturers: can be contacted by phone (leave messages to be returned) or email to help with any inquiries or problems you may encounter.
• orientation: a compulsory orientation weekend will be held when the course begins where you will receive information to help you manage and cope with the study.
• Subject information: will be provided at the orientation weekend.
• residential schools: compulsory residential schools will be held throughout your eight-month study to simulate practical aspects of the policing profession, to provide feedback on your fitness levels, for assessment, and to network with students and teachers.
• There will be a three-day residential weekend and a five-day residential week in both Session 1a and �b making a total of �6 days. residential schools are generally conducted at the nSW Police college, Goulburn.
All students are involved in both physical and academic activities. Students should come prepared with appropriate clothing and subject materials to suit both activities and the Goulburn climate.
• Assessment: you will be assessed via a combination of assignments, examinations, practice simulations, presentations or seminars. the work requirements of assignments vary but often written essays, short answer questions, practical work, fieldwork or verbal presentations are used to assess skills and understanding of a topic.
• online: access to online facilities is provided for your convenience.
• Session 2 is conducted at the nSW Police college, Goulburn (�4 weeks duration). You will be eligible to apply for a scholarship (see page 18 for detailed information on scholarships). Limited on campus accommodation is available.
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course componentsHands-onexperience Activities in communication, physical skills and operational safety provide students with the opportunity to participate in hands-on training in the practical aspects of policing.
Practicalexperience the entire program is focused on the practical application of the applied skills necessary for the modern policing professional. Subjects in communication, and physical skills and operational safety, for example, may require students to participate in scenarios designed to simulate events that often occur during routine police service.
Field placement Field placement forms an integral part of the ADPP. You will undertake a field experience placement with the nSW Police Force, which provides an insight into the practical application of the theoretical foundations of the course. the placement, which is arranged by the nSW Police college, is situated as close as possible to your requested location and requires 80 hours (approximately two weeks) to complete. on campus full-time students will undertake the placement between Session � and 2 of the course. DE students can elect to undertake the field placement as either a two-week block or two separate one-week blocks during Session 1b of the course. Further field experience is gained during Sessions 3, 4 and 5 of the program, which are studied via distance education whilst working as a Probationary constable.
ScholarshipsStudents who apply for entry to the full-time on campus offering of the Associate degree in Policing Practice at charles Sturt university are invited to apply for a tax-exempt Policing Scholarship.
Scholarship information will be sent to the applicant once they have met the academic and professional criteria for the program. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and financial need. Should a scholarship be awarded and at some later stage it is found that the student no longer satisfies professional, financial or academic criteria, the scholarship may be withdrawn. Successful scholarship applicants are advised at the same time an offer of placement in the course is made.
Articulationthe Associate degree in Policing Practice articulates fully with the Bachelor of Policing and the Bachelor of Policing (Investigations).
Further studycSu also offers postgraduate courses in Policing Practice, child Protection Investigation, Investigations Management, Fraud and Financial Investigation, criminal Intelligence, Police negotiation, Fire Investigation, Crime Prevention and Leadership and Management, and Terrorism, Safety and Security through the School of Policing Studies, Goulburn and the Australian Graduate School of Policing, Manly.
Further more detailed information including subject descriptions are available on the cSu website www.csu.edu.au/courses
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SEctIon 5
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. ADMISSION1.1 What happens if I don’t have a UAI, TER or equivalent?
You need to be able to meet at least one of the other criteria specified in order to be deemed academically eligible, e.g. a TAFE qualification.
1.2 Can I defer my offer to a later intake into the course?
Applicants may request that their application be resubmitted for consideration along with all other applications received for the next intake. You do not incur a penalty should you choose not to accept an offer of admission, however there is no guarantee of receiving another offer. the number of places available for an intake varies due to the needs of the nSW Police Force, resulting in more/less offers being made. You should note that Professional Suitability requirements are always reviewed prior to an offer of admission being made.
1.3 Can I apply as a full fee paying overseas or international student?
No. The NSW Police Force employment policy stipulates that applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent Australian residents or New Zealand citizens.
1.4 Isthereapreferredprofileforapplicants?
the aim of both the university and the nSW Police Force is to educate a range of students that is balanced in terms of gender, ethnicity, age, academic qualifications and work and life experiences, which reflects the diversity of the State’s population.
Applicants are admitted on the basis of their previous studies and/or professional training, skills and/or other relevant experience, as well as professional suitability. Students should be physically fit to handle the rigours of training and operational policing. A student should also be a law-abiding citizen who appreciates, and is sensitive to, our culturally and linguistically diverse society, and has sound communication and comprehension skills.
1.5 Can I change from studying by distance education to being on campus?
Prior to an offer being made, you can request, in writing, to change study modes. the date of your application will be amended to the date the request was received. If your request is made after an offer has been made there is no guarantee of another place being available.
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2. CSU POLICING SCHOLARSHIPS2.1 What are my chances of being awarded a scholarship?
All students studying full-time in sessions � and 2 receive Aud$�00 per week accommodation allowance.
Many full-time on campus students receive a scholarship, with eligible dE students receiving a scholarship in Session 2 only.
An unsuccessful scholarship application can only be reviewed at a later date if there has been an exceptional change in circumstances and is subject to sufficient funds being available.
If you do not receive a scholarship in a round of offers and you decide not to accept the offer of a place at that point in time, it is unlikely that you would receive a scholarship in a future intake. this would not be the case, however, if your academic or financial needs or professional status change significantly from those listed in your application.
2.2 How is it determined who receives a scholarship?
to receive a scholarship, applicants must satisfy the professional and academic criteria for the program and provide evidence of financial need.
Higher Value Scholarships are awarded to successful applicants who satisfy the above criteria and provide evidence of need such that, without receipt of the higher value scholarship, they would not be able to undertake the course, e.g. dependent partner and/or children; having to maintain a family home; other financial or personal matters. Only 10% of undergraduate students receive a higher value scholarship.
3. COST OF LIVING3.1 Do I have to pay tuition fees?
All students enrolled in the Associate degree must pay a subject tuition fee which is calculated by a formula based on the number of subjects enrolled in each session. Fees can be paid uPFront at the commencement of each session (this does not attract a discount) or dEFErrEd, if eligible, via the Commonwealth Government loans scheme FEE-HELP with repayments made later through the Australian Tax Office and attracting a loan fee for undergraduate students. You can change payment options at the start of each session.
3.2 How much does accommodation cost?
An Accommodation Scholarship (Aud$�00 per week) is currently provided to everyone who studies the Associate degree in Police Practice full-time on campus. on campus accommodation at the nSW Police college, Goulburn is currently Aud$�00 per week, which includes meals.
3.3Arethereanyotherformsoffinancialassistance?
Yes. See Step 4 – Scholarship awards. In addition the cSu website has further information in relation to the costs of studying for prospective AdPP Students www.csu.edu.au/student/police
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4. LIVING AT THE NSW POLICE COLLEGE, GOULBURN4.1 Do I have to live on campus at the College?
No. Some students prefer to rent a flat or a caravan or board with local residents. Students will find that course commitments dictate that they need to live close to the campus.
remember that full-time on campus students attend Session � and Session 2 (approximately �4 weeks each) at Goulburn, depending on the needs of the nSW Police Force. recognition of current competency and dE students attend the college at Goulburn in Session 2 only (�4 weeks duration).
the need to arrange rental leases, bonds and furniture for periods of only �4 weeks does not necessarily restrict the options available to students. the cSu website has further information in relation to private accommodation arrangements in Goulburn www.csu.edu.au/student/police
on campus accommodation is based around single unit bedrooms. there is no provision for partners or children to live on campus.
4.2 Can I commute to class from Sydney or Canberra?
not on a daily basis. Experience has shown that it is not possible to commute due to the teaching schedule.
4.3 Am I guaranteed a room on campus?
no. Whilst the university and nSW Police college, Goulburn will endeavour to place students on campus, demand often exceeds supply. the cSu website has further information in relation to private accommodation arrangements in Goulburn www.csu.edu.au/student/police. the application form for on campus accommodation is also available on the cSu website www.csu.edu.au/student/police
4.4 Are there childcare facilities available?
there are no childcare facilities on the nSW Police college campus. A list of day care centres is provided with the offer of admission information.
5. CSU STUDENT SERVICES5.1 What assistance does the University provide for mature age students and students
commencingtertiarystudyforthefirsttime?
CSU Learning Skills Advisers provide individual and group workshops, together with information packs on topics such as time management; effective reading and note taking; essay writing; assignment techniques; exam preparation; research skills and basic mathematical skills.
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6. THE COURSE6.1 How academic and demanding is the course?
the course is not just focused on theory. It combines both the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for the modern policing professional. Students have found that the practical application of both knowledge and skills learnt in the classroom greatly enhances their learning ability and the relevance of the subject material.
the course is both rigorous and challenging. the rewards and satisfaction gained through your personal efforts will be significant. Motivation and commitment are likely to be the deciding factors in who successfully completes the course.
Students concerned with aspects of their academic ability can seek assistance and support from Learning Skills Advisers located within CSU’s Division of Student Services.
6.2DoIneedtobuytextbooks/subjectmaterials?
Yes. An agency of the university co-op Bookshop is located on the nSW Police college campus. Students should budget approximately Aud$200 per session for sessions � and 2 for the purchase of textbooks/subject materials.
Firearms and officer safety training are covered in detail throughout Sessions 1 and 2. Training in the other practical skills necessary to become a police officer occur throughout the course with an emphasis on the fitness, safety and wellbeing of officers and others.
7. POLICING AS A CAREER7.1 I come from the country. Can I be posted to a Police Station in my region?
Probationary constables may be placed anywhere in new South Wales depending upon the needs of the nSW Police Force at the time of employment.
7.2 Can I start my career in forensic or water police or other specialist area?
no. Everybody must start out in general duties and remain in the one location for at least three years. After that you can apply for specialist areas, but you should realise that some have relatively small teams with a high level of interest, which makes entry extremely competitive.
In all likelihood, but it mainly depends upon you. once you enter the program, you must ensure that you continue to meet all the professional suitability requirements and pass all your academic subjects. Students must provide documentation that they have successfully completed the �00 metre swimming certificate, and also a current Senior First Aid Certificate, including proficiency in use of a laerdal mask, and Hepatitis B immunisation, prior to the completion of Session 2. Aside from checking on your criminal and traffic offence history and ensuring you are medically fit, the NSW Police Force recruitment Branch will also assess any behavioural reports or other information available to them prior to the employment date.
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8. MORE INFORMATION8.1WhocanItalkwithtofindoutmoreaboutPolicingasacareer?
Recruitment Branch, the NSW Police Force on 1800 222 122. on the internet, visit www.police.nsw.gov.au for further information.
Contact info.csu on 1800 443 306 (free call). on the internet, visit www.csu.edu.au/student/police for further information.
8.3 How do I know what is happening with my application?
Once your application has been lodged, please allow approximately 6 to 8 weeks for it to be considered. If you have any questions please contact the CSU Admissions Office on 02 6933 4334 or via email on [email protected]
8.4 Who can I talk to about AUSTUDY or ABSTUDY?
AUSTUDY - 132 490 and ABSTUDY - 132 317 or Centrelink Office - 131 021 and request a telephone interview with the Goulburn office or visit your local Centrelink Office. on the internet, visit www.centrelink.gov.au for further information.
