The Student Room Group

Police and psychology

I’m hoping to do police work after school such as becoming a detective rather than as a police officer. Is it possible to become one without joining the police force first as I’ve seen some differing answers online. I would like to get a degree first in psychology and whilst doing so be a police constable for experience. Is it possible to become a detective without being a police officer and if so which degree would be best just psychology or psychology and forensic science for example.