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UCM launches uniformed protective services qualification

The two-year BTEC course replaces psychology and, studied alongside forensics, is worth the equivalent of three A-levels and up to 168 UCAS points.

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Manx Wire · https://manxwire.im/community/2026-10-18-ucm-launches-uniformed-protective-services-qualification/

The white church at Santon with its tall bell tower against a deep blue winter sky, old gravestones in front.
Santon church. Photo: Otter, CC BY-SA 4.0

University College Isle of Man (UCM) is introducing a new qualification for students considering careers in the police, fire and rescue service, armed forces, prison service and other uniformed roles, according to Manx Radio.

The BTEC Level 3 extended certificate in Uniformed Protective Services replaces the college’s previous psychology course.

It will be taught alongside the college’s Level 3 forensics course. Taken together, the two lead to a qualification equivalent to three A-levels, carrying up to 168 UCAS points.

The course lasts two years and combines time in the classroom with practical experience. Manx Radio reported that it is intended to give learners a clear picture of what the work involves and what is expected of those who do it.

A UCM spokesperson said the course prepares students to move into a range of services, including border work, as well as “other public-service careers”. The spokesperson said it can also open the way to higher education in policing, criminology, law and public services.

According to the spokesperson, the qualification complements the criminology and science that students study in forensics “whilst also extending progression opportunities”.

  • Education
  • University College Isle of Man
  • Careers
  • Emergency services
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