Western Sydney University partners with NSW Police Force to deliver real-world preparation for one of the state’s most vital public service careers

Western Sydney University is entering a new strategic partnership with the NSW Police Force to help train future police officers to protect, lead and serve their communities in New South Wales. The University and NSW Police Force will co-deliver the Associate Degree in Applied Policing—a critical qualification and training pathway into the force.

Embedded in community impact and public service, this direct pathway will ensure students graduate with the skills, confidence, resilience and ethical decision-making needed to enter the NSW Police Force as Probationary Constables.

Professor Jason Pandya-Wood, Dean of Western Sydney University’s School of Social Sciences, said the University is proud to co-deliver the program which has a long legacy of serving the state and local communities.

“There is a natural synergy between the University and police education, given many of those applying for the NSW Police Force are from the Western Sydney region,” said Professor Pandya-Wood.

“With a focus on industry-aligned, practice-based education, Western Sydney University is thrilled to co-deliver the program with the NSW Police Force, training the next generation of police constables.

“This is one of the state’s most critical public service pathways and our graduates will be ready to serve with confidence and care.”

From January 2026, Western Sydney University will deliver the Associate Degree in Applied Policing (ADAP), a three-stage, Australian Qualifications Framework Level 6 qualification, designed in close collaboration with the NSW Police Force.

With three stages spanning Distance, Academy (in Goulburn), and Operational learning, the program is built to ensure recruits are well-prepared for the demands of policing today and into the future.​

NSW Police Academy Commander, Chief Superintendent John Klepczarek, APM said the new partnership would play a pivotal role in shaping a new wave of exceptional police constables.

“The education and training the recruits will receive at the Academy will be among the best in the world, ensuring they meet the demands of modern policing now and into the future,” said Chief Superintendent Klepczarek.

“The course will teach students about all aspects of contemporary policing and will put them in great stead to undertake any of the more than 200 jobs available within their career with NSW Police.

“The partnership with Western Sydney University brings a number of benefits, especially for students, such as gaining an Associate Degree in Applied Policing, and recognition of prior experience.”

For over 20 years, Western Sydney University has offered a Bachelor of Policing, with the new Associate Degree in Applied Policing serving to strengthen the University’s longstanding relationship with NSW Police Force.

Together with the NSW Police Force, the University co-shares the Forensic Science Facility at the Hawkesbury campus, delivering nationally recognised forensic science education. The campus is also home to the NSW Police Leadership Centre.

Applications are now open and those wishing to find out more can visit the applications page (opens in a new window).

ENDS

3 October 2025

Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media Officer

Photo credit: Kyisoe Han