Welcome to the Centre for Policing Research and Learning

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The Centre for Policing Research and Learning is a problem-solving research centre focused on major policing challenges. Through interdisciplinary research, innovation and strategic partnerships, we bring together expertise to address difficult problems and support change in policing policy and practice.

About the CentreMeet the team

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CPRL Strategy

The Open University’s Centre for Policing Research and Learning (CPRL) has agreed a new strategy for 2027–2031, marking an important next phase in its development. Ratified by the Centre’s Members’ Governance Meeting, the strategy sets out an ambition to become the UK’s trusted national hub for policing research, innovation and professional learning: connecting local challenges with national expertise and translating knowledge into lasting improvements in policing.

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OpenLearn - Policing practice and leadership

Choose and learn from our OpenLearn platform, showcasing our free online courses in the Policing practice and leadership hub collection.

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OU Policing news and blog

Read up on the latest news and reflections from the Department for Policing teaching staff, with shared blogposts and insights from our expert practitioners.

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Research outputs

Read the latest published CPRL research from the Centre's academics on a wide range of research topics.

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CPRL Annual Report 2025

The Centre for Policing Research and Learning Annual Report 2025 celebrates the achievements and key developments in the department's progress over the previous year.

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Contact us - get involved

There are many ways to take part in the work of the Centre through our education, research and knowledge into practice programmes.