About the course
This two-year course is ideal for students who wish to develop a comprehensive understanding of Uniformed Protective Services; encompassing practical techniques, academic knowledge and technical skills.
The course incorporates a mix of practicals, classroom lectures, industry visits and case study exercises.
Students will also receive training and assessment in a range of additional qualifications, which will enhance their employability.
During the first year students will gain practical experience in Uniformed Protective Services, enabling learners to develop a substantial common core of knowledge, including Government policies, leadership and teamwork, and citizenship and diversity as well as specific mandatory units related to your career pathway, such as understanding discipline, fitness testing and training, responding to emergency situations, outdoor and adventurous activities and volunteering in public services, thus helping people to become occupationally ready to take up employment in the public services sector at the appropriate level. This can follow either directly after achieving the qualification, or via the stepping stone of Higher Education (HE) in university or college.
By studying a Uniformed Protective Services Level 3 course learners develop knowledge, understanding and skills required by the sector, including essential employability skills, and allowing them to be applied in real work contexts.
Students enrol initially on a one-year course (which is why it refers to one-year in the 'Course Length' section adjacent) and, upon successful completion of the first year (with strong attendance and behaviour), progress to the second year.
Applications are now open for entry in September 2026.
This is a 3 x A Level equivalent course. We also offer a 2 x A Level equivalent course (the National Extended Certificate), with slightly lower entry requirements and the option to potentially resit either GCSE Maths or English. Students normally apply for the one that best meets their anticipated GCSE Results.
Key Information
Location: Preston Campus
Course length: Two Years (35 weeks)
Start date: September 2026
Course Modules
Behaviour and Discipline in the Uniformed Protective Services
Citizenship and Diversity
Physical Preparation, Health and Wellbeing
Skills for Outdoor Activities and the Uniformed Protective Services
Teamwork, Leadership and Communication in the Uniformed Protective Services
Entry requirements & additional information
This course provides an excellent vocational alternative to A Level study. Students enjoy the varied style of teaching that goes far beyond traditional classroom study. They also enjoy the fact that - should they choose it - there's the opportunity to progress to Higher Education degrees, with the course carrying the same value (in terms of UCAS points) as three traditional A Levels.
The Entry Requirements are as follows:
A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 4 or higher. These must include English Language, Maths and either a single or combined science.
Applicants for all courses in Uniformed Protective Services are also expected to show a strong commitment and interest in the subject.
This study programme is practical and will involve external visits, workshops and outdoor activities as well as underpinning classroom theory sessions. Assessments will include assignments, presentations and reports.
There are no formal examinations on the Level 3 BTEC Diploma.
Equivalent to studying three A Levels, the BTEC Diploma is an ideal spring board for progression to university degrees. Some students have used the programme to continue with their love of the Protective Services industries on degrees at a range of universities. Some have progressed to degrees in the likes of Business, Accountancy, Law and Marketing.
It is essential that, if you have a clear career goal in mind, you check and confirm the entry requirements of your preferred degree programme prior to commencing your Level 3 studies here at Myerscough. Information, Advice and Guidance will be provided by the College to support you in making the right choices, but please ensure that you have taken time to consider your future career goals and the specific entry requirements at other universities. The UCAS website is a good starting point: https://www.ucas.com/
Learners will be required to wear college uniform
Costs that are mandatory for the course:
College T-shirt, tracksuit bottoms and tracksuit top or hooded top� approx. £85
Costs that are optional for the course:
Public Services textbook approx. £20
Walking shoes approx. £30-100+ (depending on quality and brand)
Outdoor Clothing approx. £50-£150+ (depending on quality and brand)