Police University College

The Police University College (Polamk) in Tampere, Finland, is the nation's sole institution for police education, research, and development, operating under the Ministry of the Interior. It holds a unique position as both a university of applied sciences and a police unit, dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the expertise of the Finnish Police.

Academics

Polamk is responsible for all police training, including student selection, degree programs, advanced studies, and applied research in the police field. It offers a Bachelor of Police Services degree, which is a three-year program that qualifies graduates for various police officer positions, such as Senior Constable, in public order, security, and crime prevention. The institution also provides a Master's degree in police services and specialized courses, including an executive MBA in policing. While instruction is primarily in Finnish and Swedish, some courses are taught in English.

International Students

Polamk welcomes exchange students from international partner universities through bilateral agreements, particularly via the Erasmus+ program. Exchange studies, conducted in English, do not lead to a Polamk degree but count towards the student's degree at their home university. Support services include assistance from an Erasmus coordinator and student tutors to help with adjustment and necessary documents. The Police University College also offers some of its English-taught courses to degree and exchange students from other higher education institutions in Tampere, fostering a diverse learning environment.

Campus & Location

The 21-hectare Polamk campus is located in Hervanta, a suburb approximately eight kilometers from the center of Tampere. The campus features modern classroom and office facilities, a library, and a sports hall with a gym, swimming pool, and wrestling hall. For practical training, there is a simulation training city, a driver training track, a forensic investigation laboratory, and a command training center. Tampere, the third largest city in Finland, offers a vibrant student life, excellent public transport, and a relaxed, small-town lifestyle with numerous sports, hobby, and cultural opportunities.

Career Outcomes

All new police officers in Finland graduate from the Police University College. The Bachelor of Police Services degree qualifies graduates for positions such as Senior Constable, enabling them to work in public order, security, and crime prevention, as well as criminal investigations. Graduates can apply for positions in police departments, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Finnish Security and Intelligence Service. The police force offers a wide range of career paths beyond traditional patrolling, including roles as detectives, forensic analysts, and various administrative and specialized positions, welcoming individuals with diverse educational backgrounds.