Kyle Brewis

"I studied an undergraduate degree in BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS at the University and kept up to date with what courses were available. I joined Northumbria Police shortly after graduating and eventually moved into a role that involved working on university campuses, which reignited my interest in studying. I gained a promotion to sergeant and later learned about a bursary scheme operating between Northumbria Police and the College of Policing, which would part-fund a master's degree. I began looking into local options and found that Sunderland offered MSc Leadership in Criminal Justice and Policing. I liked that the course was pitched towards professionals in this field, and there was a range of modules available to choose from that sounded very interesting. I had considered distance learning, but I really wanted to learn in person, and the course allowed me to study locally. The alumni discount, together with the bursary, also meant that it was financially viable.

I knew postgraduate study was the right path for me because, after completing my undergraduate degree in a completely different field, I wanted to specialise in an area more aligned with my career goals. I was aware that postgraduate study would come with higher expectations, and I was drawn to the opportunity to explore leadership theory and criminology in greater depth.

Before starting, I was concerned about balancing full-time study with full-time shift work. However, Northumbria Police were incredibly supportive, offering flexibility when lectures conflicted with my schedule and allowing me the time to attend. I did also worry that I would struggle to get back into the swing of studying, as I remember that it took time to get used to reading academic material. I used the University’s online access to journals to build up my confidence again and this helped when it came to academic writing.

I chose this course because, as well as being local, it was clearly focused in my area of business. As a leader within policing, I really liked the idea of developing my understanding of leadership theory while learning about the underlying concepts of criminology, vulnerability, and international policing which are all very relevant to my role.

Studying has given me a deeper understanding of leadership theory, which has enabled me to implement strategies that help my teams thrive. Combined with my operational experience, my studies have shaped my leadership approach, allowing me to better plan and manage workplace situations.

Since graduating, I have moved into a new role in a really challenging area of policing. I’ve passed a legal knowledge exam, been accepted into a Detective Sergeant programme and I’m working towards my next promotion. My degree has also helped me build teams that are genuinely committed to delivering outstanding service to the public. One of the greatest benefits of the degree was studying alongside people from diverse backgrounds, including professionals working in criminal justice, individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system, and recent undergraduates who progressed directly to the MSc. I found that each person had a unique perspective; having been immersed in policing for over 12 years, it’s important to listen to all voices to avoid being stuck in an echo-chamber.

If you’re considering postgraduate study, I would recommend taking the time to find a course that fits an area that you’re interested in. It’s a lot of work to reach the standards expected on postgraduate study, so tackling an area that sparks your curiosity is important. That being said, approach your course with an open mind and explore study that challenges what you thought you knew!"