Professional Qualification in Probation (PQIP) BA (Hons)/GradDip/DipHE at De Montfort University

Programme overview

DMU is contracted by HM Prison and Probation Service to deliver the academic component of the Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP) for the East of England and Kent, Surrey and Sussex regions, the recognised route to becoming a probation officer. Self-funded distance-learning pathways lead through a Level 4 Access Pathway, Level 5 Required Knowledge modules and a DipHE in Community Justice towards the level 6 BA/GradDip.

Duration: PQiP graduate route 15 to 21 months; non-graduate route 27 months (HMPPS-sponsored) | Intake: September 2025 and March 2026 (as published) | Location: Leicester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The four Level 5 Required Knowledge modules are The Criminal Justice System, Penal Policy and Punishment, Crime and Criminal Behaviour, and Rehabilitation; the DipHE adds a fifth module, Adult Learning and Reflective Practice. Delivery is by distance learning with interactive study guides and online tutorials.

Career pathways

Provides the qualifications needed to apply for probation officer training through the HMPPS recruitment process (not a guarantee of employment).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Entry Criteria; Learners can enter at one of 3 levels depending on previous qualifications and experience; Level 4 entry; Learners without any formal qualifications will usually enter the qualification at level 4. Learners will need to have experience of working with challenging people; Level 5 entry; Learners entering at this point will be required to take 4 modules covering the required content. There will be an additional 40 credit module available for students progressing from level 4 leading to the award of DipHE in Community Justice; Level 6 entry; Learners with a degree or DipHE are eligible to study the level 6 qualification. Learners wishing to join at this level should note that they are required to be in post on the POiP programme with HMPPS. For further details about Trainee recruitment see http://www.traintobeaprobationofficer.com/apply; Those with a relevant degree that does not cover the required 4 modules can study the content they require on a module by module basis.

Domestic applicants: GBP 3,000 for the whole programme. DipHE in Community Justice price (self-funded pathway); Level 4 Award GBP 250 and 20-credit Level 5 modules GBP 484 each Source

Intake: September 2025, March 2026

Duration: PQiP graduate route 15 to 21 months; non-graduate route 27 months (HMPPS-sponsored)

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