Enterprise and Commerce
NPA Legal Services and Police Studies
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Full time
Start date
Jan 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This engaging, career-focused course is tailored for students interested in law enforcement and legal practice. It leads to the National Progression Award (NPA) in Legal Services, while also offering a broader learning experience that supports progression into further study or employment in the justice sector.
You will gain a foundational understanding of the Scottish legal system and its key institutions, while developing practical skills essential to both legal and policing contexts. The course explores the nature of crime through introductory criminology, encouraging students to think critically about societal responses to criminal behaviour.
Alongside legal studies, you will build confidence in report writing and digital literacy—skills vital for effective communication and case documentation. Police investigations are examined through real-world scenarios, helping learners understand procedures and decision-making in operational contexts. Debating skills are also developed, fostering analytical thinking and the ability to present reasoned arguments—an asset in both legal and policing careers.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with a strong foundation in legal knowledge, investigative techniques, and communication skills, preparing them for further study or entry-level roles in legal services, policing, or related fields.
It also helps you to develop essential skills valued by employers, such as:
- Positive attitudes to the workplace and learning
- Good time-keeping and attendance
- How to work co-operatively
- Self-respect and respect and consideration for others
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Confidence to seek and give feedback
- Self-review and evaluation
- Research and presentation skills
What you will learn
- Introduction to Scots Law
- Crime in Society
- Debating Skills
- Police Investigations
- IT & Report Writing Skills
- Introduction to Criminology
These are just some of the areas covered in your course.
Meta Skills Developed:
- Integrity
- Adapting
- Initiative
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Curiosity
- Critical thinking
Placement information
- No work placement required
How the course is assessed
- On-going assessment
- Portfolio of Evidence
Number of days per week
- Three Days, two in person and one self-study.
Entry requirements
- A minimum of four relevant National 5s (must include English and Maths/Numeracy) at C or above
Or
- Any relevant National Qualifications Group Award at SCQF level 5. Must include Comms and Numeracy
Or
- Successful completion of level 5 Legal and Police
Relevant subjects could include
- English
- Business
- Modern Studies
- Science subjects
English Proficiency Requirements
Minimum IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- HNC courses, including HNC Legal Services
Career options
- Junior Administrators within a legal environment
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 26/01/26 |
