Protective Services

The Foundation Degree (FdA) in Protective Services at Blackpool and The Fylde College equips you with the knowledge, practical skills and professional insight needed for a career across the protective and public services sector.

This industry‑focused degree prepares you for roles in both uniformed and non‑uniformed services, including the Police, Fire and Ambulance Services, as well as the Probation and Prison Services, Civil Service, NHS, HMRC and wider criminal justice agencies.

The course combines academic theory with real‑world application, giving you a strong foundation for working in complex public protection environments. You’ll develop:

• An understanding of criminology, crime prevention and offender management

• Insight into rehabilitation and multi‑agency working

• Practical experience through work‑based learning

• Strong research, analytical and problem‑solving skills

• Awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion in professional practice

• Confidence in using technology to support public protection

You’ll be taught by experienced lecturers with strong industry links, ensuring learning reflects current practice across the protective services. The programme places a clear emphasis on collaboration, professionalism and ethical decision‑making, preparing you to work effectively with diverse communities.

On completion, you’ll be well prepared to progress directly into employment or continue your studies with a BA (Hons) top‑up degree. Graduates leave ready to make a positive impact in a demanding and evolving protective services landscape.

Course Modules

Modules at level 4
Module title Code Credits Optional
Introduction to Academic Study TH4MD329 20 No
Introduction to Protecting Contemporary Society TH4MD330 20 No
Risk Resilience and Emergencies TH4MD331 20 No
Evidence Based Policy TH4MD332 20 No
Public Protection TH4MD333 20 No
Understanding Human Behaviour TH4MD334 20 No
Modules at level 5
Module title Code Credits Optional
Work Based Learning TH5MD340 20 No
Preserving Life TH5MD341 20 No
Public Protection in a Digital Era TH5MD342 20 No
Offender Management and Rehabilitation TH5MD343 20 No
Leadership Innovation and Change in Protective Services TH5MD344 20 No
Multi Agency Approach to the Criminal Justice System TH5MD345 20 No

https://www.blackpool.ac.uk/course/th1he0006

Assessment on the Foundation Degree in Protective Services is designed to reflect current professional practice and focuses mainly on coursework and practical tasks.

You’ll be assessed through a range of methods, including:

• Essays and written reports

• Case studies and briefing papers

• Presentations

• A research project

• Open‑book exams (with access to reference materials)

• Multiple‑choice exams

This varied approach allows you to demonstrate both academic understanding and practical application relevant to protective services roles.

Feedback and support

You’ll receive regular, constructive feedback throughout the course to help you improve your work, build confidence and progress your grades over time.

Assessment Method Level 4 Level 5

Coursework 75% 70%

Exam 0% 10%